Any trip to a Disney Park is often an enchanting experience. From riding Space Mountain or It’s A Small World to eating that delicious Dole Whip or a Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar, those moments (usually) make the long lines worth it. Add in character experiences and well, you’ve just added onto the excitement. After all, getting a hug from Ariel in her grotto is often as close as you can get to your favorite character. So naturally, your child will probably want to get a hug that will last forever, and they just might, thanks to the Disney Hug Rule. But is it real?
What Is The Disney Hug Rule?
Character experiences just might be the heart of a Disney visit. And just like Olaf, warm hugs are always welcome from almost any Disney character. So what is the Disney Hug Rule? According to multiple sources (and numerous TikTok claims), the Disney Hug Rule states that if a child hugs a character, the character doesn’t let go until the child does. The thought is that you never know how much that child needs a happy hug, and the characters are there to cuddle with your kiddo for as long as they want.
Is The Disney Hug Rule Real?
Although the idea of a Disney Hug Rule adds even more magic to the experience, there isn’t a hard and fast rule about how long it can last. Apparently, it’s up to each individual character to decide, but more often than not, they will hug a child for as long as they hug back. That means if your little one wants a hug that lasts for a minute or longer, cast members will most likely be quite accommodating.
So Will Characters Break The Hug First?
At some point, the embrace will have to end. Thankfully, the actors know how to do this politely and in a personable way. They might try to engage the child in face-to-face conversation (i.e.: “Have you visited Cinderella at her castle today?”) Or they may ask the child if they want to pose for a picture, and then gently turn your kiddo towards the camera.
Remember, even though your child totally wants to hug Tigger, it might not be the best idea to let the embrace last for an eternity. Character lines are notoriously long, and if your child is locked in an embrace, it can prevent other guests from getting to experience the same treatment, too.
Should You Expect The Disney Hug Rule When You Visit The Park?
In a word: probably. Cast members know all too well that as each guest comes up to greet them that they’ll probably want to give them a hug before their picture is taken. But don’t be surprised if some cast members avoid the hugs, particularly the villains who are always encouraged to stay in character. It’s not like Cruella de Vil will welcome a hug even from your child who is adorably dressed as a Dalmatian (but don’t despair; they will often give hugs, too).
Is There An Age Limit To The Disney Hug Rule?
Well, that depends. Guests of all ages are welcome to hug, but, again, there’s a time limit. A well-meaning (and short) hug is absolutely appropriate for an adult, but when it goes on for too long (and gets a little lecherous), characters have the right to refuse the hug or break the embrace earlier. Not only is it creepy to hug a character for too long, but it also puts the cast member in a difficult position, as they must remain in character at all times or risk losing their jobs.
Now, there’s nothing wrong with wanting to embrace Eeyore but for the most part, keep the hugs quick and get your picture. That way, the memory (and not the hug) will last for a lifetime.