Disneyland reopens gates after year-long shutdown

Disneyland reopened its gates on Friday after being shut down for more than a year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The cast members were getting ready early in the morning with the American and California flags being raised and members lining up at the entrance to greet visitors, USA Today reported.

Disney CEO Bob Chapek announced in March that Disneyland would be reopening on April 30 with health guidelines such as wearing a mask, temperature checks and social distancing markers.

“Wow. What a day,” Chapek said during the reopening. “We have waited so long for this.”

“We’re not just another place. We’re not just another theme park. We’re something special because of you. Now, let’s go make the magical memories that last a lifetime,” Chapek added.

Disneyland has also recalled more than 15,000 furloughed employees who were laid off during the park’s closure, according to USA Today.

Ken Potrock, president of the Disneyland Resort, said he wants to recall more employees soon as Disneyland Resort normally has more than 32,000 employees.

Chapek criticized California officials last year for keeping Disneyland closed, saying the state had “arbitrary” coronavirus restrictions.