Disney Announces “No Hugs” Policy, Social Distancing Required for Indoor Meet and Greets With Characters

Disney announced yesterday that it is relaunching indoor visits with costumed characters at their theme parks, restoring a tradition that was put on hold for over a year due to the pandemic.

Guests at the parks can take photos with characters at the meet and greets but will have to maintain social distance at all times. This means no hugs and no autographs.

In an official statement, Disney said, “Although the environment is not right just yet for hugs and autographs, you’ll soon be able to have individualized time with some of your favorite characters, getting to visit with them in a themed location and snap a photo or two.”

The policy will take effect in November, when actors portraying various beloved characters from the Disney Universe return to indoor stages at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida.