Disneyland and Disney California Adventure are in the process of shutting down and will be closed for the rest of March _ an unprecedented move for the United States' theme park industry amid fears of the coronavirus pandemic.
The Walt Disney Co. made the announcement late Thursday afternoon that its California parks would close down Saturday. The press release did not give an update on Disney World, which is currently open.
"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," Walt Disney Co. said in a news release Thursday afternoon.
Employees will continue to get paid, the company said.
The Disneyland hotels will stay open until Monday so guests can make travel plans. The Downtown Disney outdoor shopping center will remain open.
"We will monitor the ongoing situation and follow the advice and guidance of federal and state officials and health agencies," Disney said.
The closures come after California recommended canceling gatherings of 250 people or more across the state. Initially, Disneyland was exempt, officials said earlier Thursday.
Disney is also offering a temporary fee waiver if people wanted to postpone their Disney-booked vacations for later this year.
