Re-entry into parks question?

[PookaJean]

On any of the days that the parks close due to capacity, is it true that if you were in a park earlier that day you will be allowed to re-enter that same park even though it's at capacity? I know they have done this on NYE but what about other days around Christmas?

 

[bradk]

no. in the case of capacities, the only ones guaranteed admission to a park are those staying on site and it's not necessarily the park of the guest's choice.

once you leave a park, you have the same chances of getting back in as everyone else.

otherwise you'd have people showing up at 9 am, leaving at 9:05 so they can return at 11 pm or whenever.

 

[PookaJean]

But what if you are staying on site and are an annual passholder and entered earlier in the day? I know they did this on previous NYE because we were there and took advantage of it. The only reason I'm asking is we have to walk our dogs over at the Epcot Kennel every few hours so we can't just stay in a park all day. Also once they close at level 4 closing, how long does that usually last? or does it usually reopen at a certain time...ie after parade?

 

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

Here is the list of closing stages for each of the 4 parks, so hopefully this will answer you're question.

Stage 1 - The parking lot entrance is closed. You can only access the park if you are using Disney Transportation.

Stage 2 - The ticket windows are all closed (and the automated Ticket Vending Machines are turned off). Unless you already have a ticket you cannot get in.

Stage 3 - Only people with Annual Passes or current Resort IDs will be allowed in.

Stage 4 - Nobody is allowed in.

Note - having restaurant reservations in a park, even with written proof, will not override a stage closing for you.

 

[DVCLiz]

Pookajean, you might have been able to take advantage of one of the earlier stages of closing, but like the pp said, once the park reaches Stage 4 you will not be allowed back in, even if you are an AP holder staying on site. If you really want to make sure you are in the park for NYE you will need to make some other arrangements for your dog. Can you hire someone to walk him that day? How late can he stay at the kennel - is he boarding?