Universal Orlando Resort no longer requiring face masks for fully vaccinated people

Busy holiday weekend on deck

Memorial Day weekend is expected to draw huge crowds to Orlando's tourist district along International Drive.

ORLANDO, Fla. - Universal Orlando announced on Friday that masks will no longer be required indoors or outdoors for fully vaccinated guests on the property beginning Saturday.

The decision comes based on new guidelines from the CDC, according to a news release from Universal.

The same news release said, "While we will not require proof of vaccination, we do expect our guests to comply with this revised policy and to use face coverings if they have not been vaccinated. The health and safety of our guests and team members remain our top priority as we continue our thoughtful return to regular operations."

Universal, Disney announce water park reopenings

Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando will be open for business this weekend. Meanwhile, Disney's Blizzard Beach is preparing for its opening on March 7. Both parks have COVID-19 safety measures in place for all guests.

This holiday weekend promises to draw huge crowds to Orlando's tourist district.

Tourist Aaron Baptiste says, "It feels awesome to be able to breathe the fresh air again."

The Varretts are visiting Orlando and plan to include a trip to Universal and were excited to hear about changes to the mask policy.

"This so that’s awesome!" says Megan Varrett.

Business owners along International Drive say they expect lots of visitors this holiday weekend looking for fun.

Joe Foranoce, director of operations of Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux says, "I expect big crowds. Universal, Disney should be very busy, so we should be busy down here on I-Drive as well."

ICEBAR Orlando's Thomas Kerr says, "Aside from lifting the mask mandate, all the parks have raised their capacity levels so it’s kind of the tide raises all the boats approach."

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