Disneyland announced that they will close their doors until the end of the month in an unprecedented move from the theme park due to fears surrounding the coronavirus outbreak. Disneyland has only fully closed three other times in its history: after 9/11, after the JFK assassination, and the earthquake in Northridge. The full statement released by Disney reads:
“While there have been no reported cases of COVID-19 at Disneyland Resort, after carefully reviewing the guidelines of the Governor of California’s executive order and in the best interest of our guests and employees, we are proceeding with the closure of Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, beginning the morning of March 14 through the end of the month. The Hotels of Disneyland Resort will remain open until Monday, March 16 to give guests the ability to make necessary travel arrangements; Downtown Disney will remain open. We will monitor the ongoing situation and follow the advice and guidance of federal and state officials and health agencies. Disney will continue to pay cast members during this time.”
There is no word yet on any potential closures at Disney World in Orlando, FL. The company has already closed parks in Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Tokyo amid the outbreak.