Recently, Disney CEO Bob Chapek announced a major reorganization of its media and entertainment divisions which puts an emphasis on direct-to-consumer business. This shift in focus is due to the large success of Disney+ and decline of movie theater goers. Disney also owns Hulu, ESPN+ and soon to launch internationally streaming service, Star. The reorganization went into effect immediately and the now single organization media division has the roles of content distribution, ad sales and Disney+.
Another interesting tidbit coming out of the same CNBC interview (on 10/12/20) with Bob Chapek is that he confirmed Disney World parks are still operating at a reduced 25% capacity. Some have questioned recently whether or not this was true due to increased wait times at Disney World parks. Today, we are diving into why there are lines with only 25% capacity.
Some guests were expecting to see empty parks during Fall 2020 visits to Disney World, however what some encountered were long lines instead. This is explained by a simple fact. Disney World operating at 25% of their capacity is in reference to maximum capacity as permitted by fire code, and not average daily attendance.
We have some numbers to reinforce why, even at reduced capacity, you will encounter lines at Disney World. See estimated guest capacity by park, as estimated from Touring Plans.
Park Attendance Capacity:
- Animal Kingdom: 60,000 guests
- EPCOT: 110,000 guests
- Hollywood Studios: 60,000 guests
- Magic Kingdom: 90,000 guests
Once a Disney World park reaches their capacity they have to turn guests away. During normal operations, this occurs only on major holidays such as Easter and Christmas Day. Now see what 25% of park capacity looks like as well as 2019 average daily visitors as noted from Themed Entertainment Association.
25% Of Park Capacity:
- Animal Kingdom: 15,000 guests
- EPCOT: 27,500 guests
- Hollywood Studios: 15,000 guests
- Magic Kingdom: 22,500 guests
2019 Average Daily Visitors:
- Animal Kingdom: 38,000 guests
- EPCOT: 34,000 guests
- Hollywood Studios: 31,000 guests
- Magic Kingdom: 57,500 guests
Do note, the daily visitor numbers above are averaged from daily attendance throughout the year, meaning some days had less visitors and some days more. In 2019 EPCOT had an average of 34,000 guests a day, or 31% of their allowed capacity. This is not much more than the 27,500 guests allowed in at 25% capacity.
Other Reasons For Lines:
With the days of social distancing in place, longer lines will naturally occur as guests are spread out further in lines. The longer wait times are a result of a limited number of guests are allowed to ride, to be socially distanced. Another reason is with new rules in place, there is simply less entertainment and more guests vying for the same options. Mobile ordering will help to reduce wait times for dining, however limited dining options will increase wait times.
Learn more about the Walt Disney World Parks including attractions, secrets, tips and more. Plus my friends at Destinations in Florida can help you plan your perfect Walt Disney World vacation.