Disney World bans eating and drinking while walking after guests break face mask rules

DISNEY World has banned guests from eating and drinking while walking around the park after people were using the loophole to avoid wearing face masks.

Less than 10 days after reopening, the theme park has updated its face mask policy which now explicitly warns people to stay in place and away from others if they remove their mask to eat.

The policy explains: "Please bring your own face coverings and wear them at all times, except when dining or swimming."

It has since been updated to warn: "You may remove your face covering while actively eating or drinking, but you should be stationary and maintain appropriate physical distancing."

Disney Parks blog asked a Disney cast member at the Epcot park about the new rule this weekend and was told “guests are now being asked to find a safe spot six feet from other guests before removing their masks to eat and drink.”

If guests do not wear a face mask, the blog reported, they will be asked to put one on or leave.

Disney has strict definitions for what constitutes a face mask, which excludes “open-chin triangle bandanas,” as well as costume masks and “neck gaiters.”

Guests who want to remove their mask and are not safely eating or swimming can seek out a “Relaxation Station,” where they can have a socially distanced, mask-free rest.

Face masks have been enforced since the park reopened on July 11, with all guests over the age of two having to wear them.

An increased number of hand-washing and hand sanitising stations, as well as first-aid sites, have also been created throughout the parks and resorts.

The theme parks will also operate at reduced capacity, while adjustments have been made throughout to promote physical distancing.

Disney has also amplified its cleaning protocol, with a "special emphasis" on frequently disinfecting attractions, queues, dining, lobbies and transportation systems.

After daily closures, each park will receive an "enhanced cleaning" before visitors return the following day.

Park-hopping has been suspended, with guests only able to visit one per day.

The website explains: "Guests will be able to select one park per day; visiting more than one park per day will be temporarily unavailable upon the reopening of the theme parks due to attendance limitations."

Disneyland Paris reopened their doors on July 15 after being forced to close for four months amid the pandemic.