A recent report from WDW News Today states that Disneyland plans to offer alcohol at the cantina within the upcoming Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge attraction. One would think this news would be met with open arms from parents and those who appreciate authenticity. But, alas — diehard Disneyland fans are disappointed that the park is straying from Walt Disney’s decision to keep Disneyland dry.
Deemed the “Walt Right” by critics on Reddit, these warriors have taken to social media to share their disapproval of introducing alcohol onto Disneyland’s campus. They argue that if adults (who aren’t members of Club 33) want an alcoholic beverage, they have the opportunity to get one in Downtown Disney or Disney California Adventure. There’s no need to bring alcohol into the park, which starkly goes against Walt’s wishes.
Since its opening in 1955, Disneyland has been completely dry “because [alcohol] brings in a rowdy element,” Disney explained in an interview with the Saturday Evening Post. He continued to say that offering alcohol would bring “people [who] we don’t want, and I feel they don’t need it.”
If Walt ever does step out of his cryogenic casket (JK, this is just a myth!) to see his park tainted with booze, fans fear that might do the founder in for good.
No alcohol (besides 33) was one of the few remaining Walt legacies in the original Magic Kingdom. What sucks is Disney knows they can pretty much do whatever and the vast majority of us will just get used to it. I feel like they should've listened to the great Dr. Ian Malcom... pic.twitter.com/N9KBSA9VFa
— The Disney Project (@DisneyProject) August 30, 2018
Yup because Walt didn't want alcohol in his park. Just like he didn't want gum. Both create problems with cleanliness. He'd be pissed at this "change"
— Optibotimus (@optibotimus) August 31, 2018
Just asking for Walt Disney to curse that entire attraction and all its visitors. Bad move
— Daniel Adam Gruen (@DanielAdamGruen) August 30, 2018
Many others share Walt’s fear that the introduction of alcohol will attract ~*~party people~*~, who will ultimately be the demise of Disneyland.
One Redditor, who seemingly works as a park employee, wrote, “Some days, it already gets pretty bad at DCA — lately we’ve noticed a lot more intoxicated groups there during late afternoons. Worse, they often migrate over to Disneyland and do stupid sh*t.”
And a family-friendly environment plus booze equals chaos, some claim.
Others are looking at Disneyland in an entirely new and positive light.
Like most long-standing establishments, evolution and change needs to happen in order to maintain success. Introducing alcohol to Disneyland is one such shift toward greater success whether the Walt Rights like it or not. Just remember — drink responsibly.
