New Disney rules reflect a cultural shift, not just a change in policy

Did you hear about the new Disney rules at its various theme parks? This latest announcement seems to reflect a bigger cultural shift, not just new rules.

The new Disney rules at its theme parks have had many people buzzing. While new attractions, merchandise and even food choices can have Disney fans heading to their favorite theme parks, a shift in rules can cause quite a stir. As people digest these changes, do the new rules represent a bigger cultural shift than just policy?

The three recent Disney rule changes that will take affect in May are a smoking ban, a stroller size limitation policy and no ice cubes in coolers.

While these statements are a simplification of the exact rules, (the exact wording of the rules can be found on Disney’s website), the shift in restrictions seems to reflect what is and is not acceptable in today’s society.

Whether guests are aware or not, there are numerous rules when entering a theme park. When you purchase that ticket, the guest accepts the terms. From only guests under 14 can wear a costume to no glass containers (yes, that includes your water bottle), the long list of don’ts could make you wonder what you can do. Still, guests accept these terms as a price of admission, sometimes unknowingly.

When Disney announced its smoking ban, many people were appreciative of this change. For some people, smoking is a hot button topic. Many people do not want to inhale second hand smoke.

While smoking was allowed in designated areas, this limitation was no longer acceptable. The complete ban of all types of smoking in theme parks show that smoking is taboo, frowned upon and otherwise admonished. Looking at Disney history, it is interesting how and why policies have been in effect. Walt Disney was a notorious chain smoker and his habit was said to be the cause of this lung cancer.

On the flip side, Walt Disney was adamantly against alcohol at all of the theme parks. Going back to 1956, he believed that alcohol sales would bring a rowdy element to the theme parks. He didn’t think people needed the alcoholic beverages while enjoying the day at the theme park.

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FL – DECEMBER 06: In this handout image provided by Disney Parks, fireworks light the sky over Cinderella Castle during the Grand Opening of New Fantasyland at Walt Disney World Resort December 6, 2012 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. Actress Ginnifer Goodwin, Disney Parks and Resorts Chairman Tom Staggs, singer Jordin Sparks and Mickey Mouse joined dozens of Disney characters on Cinderella Castle stage to celebrate the opening. New Fantasyland is a new area in the Magic Kingdom and is the largest expansion in the 41-year history of the theme park. (Photo by Gene Duncan/Disney Parks via Getty Images)

Looking at today, many people appreciate this Disney smoking rule shift. In some people’s opinion, guests smoking inhibits their enjoyment of a day at Disney. One person’s choice seems to affect others and people do not want their enjoyment lessened.

When it came to lifting Walt’s alcohol ban, people had a very different reaction. Today, people can’t wait to try the cocktails at the Oga’s Catina or line up to try the Dole Whip Mimosas. Would Walt himself approve of these changes?

When these alcohol changes were announced, people were more divided. Some people wanted to keep the alcohol free zone, just like Walt Disney had envisioned. They thought it kept an aspect of family-friendly environment.

A more vocal group supported the change. The pro-cocktail group shows that Mickey’s domain is no longer just for the youngest guests. With so many people growing up with the Disney experience, they return time and again to relive the memories of their youth.

With the ever growing number of adult guests, the ability to have a beer or cocktail is wanted. For many people drinking around Epcot for her 21st birthday is almost a rite of passage. But, this situation leads to an interesting question. Why are alcoholic drinks acceptable but smoking is not?

Looking at the three new Disney rules, each one concerns something that effects another guest. Smoke is breathed in by everyone, large strollers can create traffic jams and leaking coolers create messes. In a way, Disney is looking to improve the overall guest experience through these policy shifts.

As Disney expects immense crowds funneling into Galaxy Edge, the theme parks want to ensure that the magical experience stays magical for everyone. For example, a super large stroller can impede traffic (anyone who has had been run over knows that). Given crowd control, this rule change seems logical.

Still, Disney’s decision to implement these rules changes, specifically the smoking ban, seems to represent a social, cultural shift. Smoking is bad and they don’t want their guests exposed to it. Other vices aren’t as bad.

Just like today’s culturally norms, some vices are acceptable, tolerated and even praised. The NFL allows liquor ads where previously those items were prohibited. Celebrities have and endorse numerous liquor companies. Alcohol is acceptable; smoking is not.

Overall, the new Disney rules will not affect the negatively the number of people walking through its turnstiles or staying at their hotels. Guests will just have to modify their habits to follow the Disney rules for the duration of their stay. While one person can sit on a bench and drink a beer, another person will be taking a tram to the car to light up.

In the end, these new Disney rules seem to reflect a cultural shift. Soon everyone can raise a glass to the magical world of Disney but just don’t impede anyone else’s enjoyment in the process.