With the Omicron variant of COVID-19 spreading globally, Disneyland Paris is reportedly preparing for the possibility of closures and cancellations, including a potential resort-wide shutdown, according to OutsidEars.

The report claims that cancellations and postponements of resort hotel stays have increased in recent weeks. Many hotels report lower fill rates than earlier in the month — a drastic drop from the large crowds that normally visit during the Christmas season. Once the holidays have passed, the resort is allegedly considering temporarily closing one or two of their hotels in January.

Another element that might be affected is the nighttime spectaculars. Even though Disney Illuminations just returned, it’s possible that performances of the fireworks show could be suspended once again, alongside the recently-debuted Mickey’s Dazzling Christmas Parade. Additionally, the resort has also put plans for fireworks on New Year’s Eve on hold while they consult with local services on how to proceed.

With the news of all these possible closures, there’s concern that things could escalate to the point where the resort may have to close again, putting many Cast Members out of work. A source connected to management told OutsidEars, “the question of a new closure can no longer be brushed aside,” though they remain optimistic that it won’t come to that, saying, “We will only close if the government obliges us to do so, but before that, we have several levers of action: return of physical distancing, closure of hotel capacities, recourse to government measures such as the APLD and partial unemployment. This is a situation that we have already experienced and measures that we know how to implement quickly.” Refurbishments, previously scheduled throughout 2022, have already been pushed forward in order to take advantage of a slower season than usual.

With Disneyland Paris’ 30th anniversary looming, hope remains that the worst will pass before the celebration begins on March 6. Though plans have already been muted, with the return of the parade and show having already been canceled, the feeling is positive that the celebration will be able to happen.

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Matthew Soberman