The fireworks still went off last night and the parades performed on schedule. But about five minutes north of Disneyland, Anaheim police worked to keep a crowd of 1,000 protesters under control.
At least 24 people were arrested as the protesters clashed with police, threw bottles and overturned chairs in downtown Anaheim on Tuesday night and early Wednesday. At least six people were injured during the fourth night of unrest in response to two fatal officer-involved shootings last weekend.
At this time, the civil unrest has not made its way to the Anaheim Resort area or the Disneyland Resort. Most visitors are likely blissfully unaware of the protests unless they read local papers or flip on the news when they return to their hotel rooms.
Of course, these types of protests can escalate quickly and any activity near Disneyland would generate significant news coverage. Because of this, there is always the potential of the movement eventually spreading closer to the mouse house.
If you are visiting Disneyland this week and staying on property, the civil unrest in the city likely won’t impact your stay. But if you have a rental car and plan to drive around Orange County, stick to the main highways around Anaheim and be mindful of your surroundings. Anaheim Police Department is doing a great job to keep everyone safe. But a little extra caution is certainly advised this week.
For up to date coverage of the protests, keep an eye on the Orange County Register.
Photo via the Orange County Register
I always feel safe at Disneyland no matter what. It is hard to imagine that kind of thing happening nearby.