The news Disney visitors have been waiting for has arrived: traditional character greetings at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, as well as the Disney Cruise Line, and Aulani Resort in Hawaii, are returning starting this Spring!
The last two years have required socially distanced character meet-and-greets, due to the pandemic, but starting as early as April 16, 2022, you will once again be able to do things like hug Mickey Mouse, get an autograph from Mulan, or take an up close photo with Stitch (my favorite!).
Disney put together this video to announce the news:
Not all locations will be available at first, but Disney says they anticipate reopening in phases throughout the spring and early summer.
Some character locations will be available to reserve with Genie+ and it is believed Disney is looking for ways to add more locations to the ones that previously supported Fastpass.
Disney teased the big news yesterday with this short video released to social media:
@disneyparks The moment we’ve been waiting for ✨ #Disney #DisneyParks #Disneyland #DisneyWorld #DisneyCruiseLine #Aulani #Magic #MickeyMouse ♬ original sound – Disney Parks
Those visiting Disneyland Paris for its 30th anniversary will find traditional Face Character Meet and Greets returning tomorrow, on April 1, 2022. The Princess Pavilion will also reopen then.
Who wants to hug Mickey on their next visit? Let us know in the comments!