Walt Disney World Resort Update for October 29 – November 4, 2019
Writer's note: While Alan Dalinka is away from the Update for a bit of R&R, I've got both coasts covered
News and Views
Headlines are auto-generated here
Halloween season wraps with Dia de los Muertos
The Halloween festivities wrap up this week, but Epcot will commemorate Dia de los Muertos with the return of a popular show in Epcot's Mexico pavilion. Mariachi Cobre Presents… The Story of Coco returns October 31 through November 2, with performances throughout the day. The show includes music, dancing, and an appearance by Miguel from Disney Pixar’s Coco.
Catch the show Thursday & Friday at 11:00 a.m., noon, 1:30 pm. and 2:30 p.m., or Saturday at 11:00 a.m., noon, 1:30 pm. and 1:45 p.m.
It's time to Wine, Dine and run
The 10th annual Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend takes place this weekend, starting with the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex Thursday, October 31 through Saturday, November 2.
There are a number of running events during the weekend, and visitors should expect some race-related transportation delays. The competition begins Friday, November 1 with the Disney Fall Feast 5K at Epcot. On Saturday, November 2, the Disney Wine & Dine 10K takes runners from the Magic Kingdom parking lot to the finish line in the Epcot parking lot. Epcot is also the site of the runDisney Kids Races on Saturday.
The main course is Sunday, with the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon. The race kicks off in the Magic Kingdom parking lot, and the course takes runners on a tour of Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios before reaching the finish line at Epcot. The post-race party begins at 5:00 p.m. at Epcot, which is a good park to avoid on Sunday if you are not part of the race festivities.
Merry Menagerie coming to Animal Kingdom
Disney's Animal Kingdom park will debut new decor and entertainment this holiday season, and earlier this week released a video of a new cast of characters that are certain to be a hit. The Merry Menagerie are a collection of puppets visitors may encounter on Discovery Island, which will get a snowy overlay for the holiday. Check out the video for a preview of what you can expect to find starting November 8.
Disney's Animal Kingdom will feature a Merry Menagerie this holiday season. YouTube video.
Save on Mickey's Very Merry Christmas party
Disney Vacation Club members, annual passholders and residents of Florida can all save on tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas party, but you have to order properly to claim your discount.
The after-hours event is held on select nights November 8 through December 22. Tickets run $99-$139 depending on which night you attend, and when you purchase the tickets. Florida residents save $10 when they purchase at least 24 hours in advance; annual passholders and DVC members save $15.
At press time, tickets were still available for all nights except the November 8 opening event.
Skyliner transports 1 millionth guest
Disney announced last week that one million passengers have taken flight on the new Skyliner system since it debuted on September 29. The posting on the Disney Parks Blog makes no mention of an October 5 incident where the system broke down for nearly three hours, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded. Disney has not revealed the cause of that malfunction, which the company described at the time as an “extended operating delays.”
Mobile ordering expands to 40 locations
Walt Disney World has expanded the convenient mobile ordering system to more restaurants in the theme parks and resort hotels, bringing the number of participating locations to 40. The latest additions include quick-service locations at the Polynesian Village, Saratoga Springs, Art of Animation, Port Orleans Riverside, and the Grand Floridian resorts. While each new mobile order location offers added convenience for park visitors and hotel guests, my west coast-biased brain couldn't help but think that 40 locations didn't seem like a lot in a resort as large as Walt Disney World. I took a quick look, and found that the Disneyland resort has nearly as many locations with mobile order, despite Walt Disney World having nearly four times as many restaurants overall.
Of course, what works at Disneyland does not always translate to Walt Disney World operations, and vice versa. I'll be interested to read Alan's take on the difference in the mobile order experience between the two resorts when he resumes the helm here next week. In the interim, you can find the current list of participating mobile order locations at Walt Disney World on the official website.
Fuel Rod ends free swaps
If you are a fan of the Fuel Rod portable charging system, get ready to pay for the service when visiting a Disney theme park. Starting Friday, November 1, customers will pay a $3 fee to swap their FuelRod charger at Disneyland Resort kiosks, and the news has angered quite a few former fans of the service.
Disney sells Fuel Rod charging kits for $30 from kiosks located throughout the Resort, each containing a rechargeable USB battery rod and an assortment of charging cables to fit most Apple and Android devices. Fuel Rod sells the device for $25 (including shipping) from their website, and other locations sell the kits for as low as $22.
Until now, once you purchased the device you could return to any Fuel Rod kiosk on Disney property and exchange a depleted charger for a fresh battery as often as you needed at no additional charge. This “free unlimited swapping” feature ends on November 1, and users will pay a fee each time they swap the device.
Disney is not the first Fuel Rod partner to begin charging for swaps – both Sea World and Universal Studios have $3.00 exchange fees. But customers who purchased the $30 device at a Disney property based on the promise of free unlimited swapping are understandably upset that the terms of the deal have changed. Via their social media channels, Fuel Rod says they were forced to impose a swap fee at some locations due to high usage, but also says the individual sites set their own prices.
Fuel Rod offers users some number of free and/or discounted swaps after they download the free Fuel Rod app and register an account, but has also directed dissatisfied customers to contact them directly at 1-844-FuelRod to see if they qualify for a refund.
Tickets on sale for Circle of Flavors: Harambe at Night
Disney's Animal Kingdom will resume the popular Circle of Flavors: Harambe at Night events starting December 4, and tickets are on sale now. Introduced in July, the added-cost event combines a progressive dinner experience with exclusive entertainment, including a Kilimanjaro Safaris Virtual Reality Experience.
The event takes place most Wednesday nights December through April from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.. Tickets are $125 per adult, and $99 per child age 3 and up. Admission to Disney's Animal Kingdom park is not included, and is required.
Book online via the Walt Disney World website, or call 407-939-3463.
NBA player guest-stars in unusual Disney drama
It's been one year since the bizarre case of Buzzy first caught the attention of Disney fans, when felony charges were filed against ex-Disney employee Patrick Spikes and his cousin Blaytin Taunton for dealing in stolen property, grand theft, and burglarizing a structure at the Magic Kingdom. Among the charges, Spikes was accused of having stolen clothes from the “Buzzy” animatronic figure from the former Wonders of Life pavilion.
The case recently took an unexpected turn when the Orlando Sentinel identified Milwaukee Bucks center Robin Lopez as the person who unknowingly purchased the stolen clothing from Spikes. Lopez is a well-known Disney fan, and his twin brother Brook, who also plays for the Bucks, owns an offseason home in the exclusive Golden Oak development on Walt Disney World property.
Per the Orlando Sentinel report, Lopez is a victim in the case, and Disney seems to have no hard feelings about his involvement in the situation. The company announced this week that Robin and Brook Lopez would make an appearance at the new NBA Experience in Disney Springs on Halloween day from 3:00 – 4:30 p.m.
Slam Dunk Update: NBA Players Brook and Robin Lopez of the @Bucks will make an appearance at #NBAExperience on Oct. 31 from 3-4:30 p.m.! Make plans to stop by and see what they’re up to on Halloween. (There will be no tricks, only treats!) 🏀 Tickets: https://t.co/Hhdb0nYxGf pic.twitter.com/oe0zPsNuhR
— Disney Springs (@DisneySprings) October 25, 2019
The Feathers History of Golf Experience
Golf fans with a passion for history can take part in a unique event on Saturday, November 16. The History of Golf Experience sponsored by the Feathers Alliance is a 9-hole putting game, using vintage golf equipment and rules. The fee is $40 per person, with registration limited to just 64 players.
Visit the Golf WDW blog for more information about this event.
Want to get paid to watch Disney+?
If you are both a huge Disney fan and a massive couch potato, have we got a dream job for you. In preparation for the launch of the new Disney+ streaming service, Disney is looking for the someone willing to watch 30 Disney movies in 30 days. The pay – a cool $1,000, a one-year subscription to Disney+, plus a movie-watching kit.
To apply, visit the promotion website and fill out the application. You also need to submit a video review of your favorite Disney movie. The deadline to apply is November 7, so good luck!
Epcot Concerts & Candlelight Processional News and Calendar
American Gardens Theatre continues its presentation of the Eat to the Beat Concert Series three times nightly through November 18 as part of this year's edition of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Eat to the Beat Concert showtimes are scheduled Sundays through Thursdays at 5:30, 6:45, and 8:00 p.m., and on Fridays and Saturdays, an hour later, at 6:30, 7:45, and 9:00 p.m. The entire schedule is published, but, of course, always keep an eye out for signs when you enter the park noting last minute changes. There are even more details and you can make reservations for dining packages including guaranteed concert seating by visiting TasteEpcot.com or calling (407)939-3378. Eat to the Beat Concert Series concludes on November 18 to begin preparing the stage for Candlelight Processional, but the Food & Wine Festival continues until November 23.
Remember, America Gardens Theatre is not a fireworks viewing area. Because of the stage area, the venue really is not a place where guests can see shows on World Showcase Lagoon itself. File Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas performed in the Eat to the Beat Concert Series again this year. File Photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
With the November 29 opening of this year's Epcot International Festival of the Holidays three times nightly performances of Candlelight Processional return and continue through December 30. The show combines a live orchestra, massed choir and celebrity narrator in the retelling of the traditional Christmas story. Neil Patrick Harris, Gary Sinise, Whoopi Goldberg, Pat Sajak, Steven Curtis Chapman, Edward James Olmos, Lisa Ling, Isabella Rossellini, Marlee Matlin, and Ming-Na Wen are all scheduled as celebrity narrators this year, with two more narrators yet to be announced. Guaranteed seating for all performances is available by booking a breakfast, lunch, or dinner Candlelight Processional Dining Package at select Epcot eateries. Availability is limited and advance reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 180 days prior to your visit. Bookings for Candlelight Processional Dining Packages and more information is available on EpcotHolidays.com or by calling (407)WDW-DINE.
Neil Patrick Harris is scheduled to return to Epcot to narrate Candlelight Procession for the 12th year. File photo by Alan S. Dalinka.
From January 17 to February 24, 2020, Epcot International Festival of the Arts returns and the America Gardens Theatre will again host nightly Disney on Broadway Concerts three times nightly. More information about the Festival and the shows is available on ArtfulEpcot.com or by calling (407)939-5277. From March 4 to June 1, 2020, the park presents the 27th Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival with its, as yet unspecified schedule, Garden Rocks Concert Series.
For the convenience of our readers, all of the scheduled Eat to the Beat Concert Series performers and announced Celebrity Narrators for Candlelight Processional at America Gardens Theatre are shown in our Google Calendar of Epcot Events. We will add the Disney on Broadway Concert Series performers and Garden Rocks Concert Series performers when they are announced. You can add the entire Event calendar to any calendar that supports the iCal format (like iPhone and Mac) by copying this link and, as we get additional information and update the calendar, the calendar will update on your subscribed device as well.
While our Google Calendar of Epcot Events lists announced performers, it is still always best to check the My Disney Experience app, Times Guide, and, yes, sometimes even signs posted at the park entrances and at the theater noting any last minute changes. The calendar is provided as a courtesy “as is, where is” without any guarantees. We do respectfully request that you do not post our entire calendar on another site without first asking our permission. Walt Disney World Resort does provide schedules in the My Disney Experience app, but does not allow you to add dates to calendars outside the app itself.
This and That…
…REMINDER: Special extra Extra Magic Hours for Disney Resort hotel guests are scheduled daily through November 2, at Magic Kingdom, Disney's Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios (including, of course, its Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge area).
…The McDonald's restaurant near Disney's All-Star Resorts will close on October 30 for an extensive renovation, and is scheduled to reopen in March, 2020.
…D23 members have one more chance to enter to win a Haunted Mansion prize pack in the Mostly Ghostly Halloween Sweepstakes. Visit the D23 website to enter before the clock strikes midnight on Halloween night.
… Earl of Sandwich Disney Springs won the 2019 TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Award for Fast Casual Restaurants, the company announced last week.
…The MousePlanet Newsletter is here! The newsletter contains a recap of the week's articles (in case you miss a day), news that may have developed since the weekly Updates were published, and tips about what's happening at the Disney theme parks for the coming weekend. We'll also include a fun bonus, such as an Eye Spy or a trivia question. To subscribe to our free newsletter, just enter your email in the box below.
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New & Coming Soon at Disney Springs
This section collects all of the Disney Springs retail and dining events we are aware of in one place along with our most recent views of the area (including those immediately under this paragraph). Event items NEW to the Update are marked accordingly. For even more of the latest news around Disney Springs, follow its official Twitter Feed: @DisneySprings.
Morimoto Asia
Back by popular demand, Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto will present holiday-themed beers and gourmet pan-Asian light bites at Morimoto Asia in Disney Springs during the highly-anticipated second annual “12 Beers of Christmas” event.
The event will take place on Sunday, Dec. 8, from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Tickets are $64++ per person. Guests must be 21 years or older to attend. In celebration of the craft-beer movement and the most wonderful time of the year, attendees will enjoy 12 specialty beers from local breweries all across Central Florida, such as Crooked Can Brewing Company and Rogue Ales. The brews will be paired with Morimoto Asia's famous pan-Asian cuisine from 12 food stations.
Morimoto himself will host the event and will be autographing copies of his cookbook Mastering the Art of Japanese Home Cooking. The cookbook will be sold at the event, with proceeds going to Give Kids the World Village, a nonprofit resort for critically ill children and their families who visit Florida on their “wish trips.”
Tickets are available on the event website.
Wine Bar George
On Saturday, November 2, join Master Sommelier George Miliotes and Johannes Selbach for a four course lunch with eight different Selbach-Oster Rieslings. “Dating back to 1600, Johannes and his family have been producing wine for more than 400 years in Germany. ” Noon to 3 p.m. for $140/person. For more information, tickets, and even more events, visit: winebargeorge.com/events.
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Resort Events
Check here to see if a park event might fall during your next trip to the Walt Disney World Resort. If you know of any in-park events, official or unofficial, that should be listed here, please send us an email.
runDisney with 
Upcoming Events
- Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend – October 31 – November 3, 2019
- Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend – January 8-12, 2020
- Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend – February 20-23, 2020
- Star Wars Rival Run Weekend – April 16-19, 2020
Visit runDisney.com for registration and more information.
Just click the year you want to expand (or close).
2019 Resort Events
- Disney After Hours: (hard ticket required; park entry at 7 p.m., event hours vary by published date and park)
…at Magic Kingdom (10 p.m. to 1 a.m.):- November 18
- December 9
…at Disney's Animal Kingdom (9 p.m. to midnight):
- October 26
- November 5, 13, & 19
- December 7, 14, & 18
- Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom (hard ticket required)
- October 24, 25, 27, 29, 31
- November 1
- Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – August 29 – November 23, 2019
(Eat to the Beat Concerts end November 19) - Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend – October 31 – November 3, 2019
- Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Resort Food & Wine Classic – November 8-9, 2019
- Dapper Days at Walt Disney World (Unofficial Events) – November 16-17, 2019
- Epcot International Festival of the Holidays – November 29 – December 30, 2019
(includes Candlelight Processional) - Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom (hard ticket required)
- November: 8, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22 & 24
- December: 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20 & 22
2020 Resort Events
- Disney After Hours: (hard ticket required; park entry at 7 p.m., event hours vary by published date and park)
…at Magic Kingdom (8 p.m. to 11 p.m.):- January 6 & 13
…at Magic Kingdom (9 p.m. to midnight):
- January 17 & 20
…at Disney's Animal Kingdom (9 p.m. to midnight):
- January 9, 16, 22, & 30
- February 6, 13, 19, & 27
- March 5, 12, 19 & 26
- Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend – January 8-12, 2020
- Epcot International Festival of the Arts – January 17 to February 24, 2020
- Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend – February 20-23, 2020
- Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival – March 4-June 1, 2020
- Star Wars Rival Run Weekend – April 16-19, 2020
- MORE EVENTS COMING SOON!
Refurbishments and Attraction Closures
Note: Not all attraction closures have been officially confirmed by Disney, and are all subject to change at any time. All refurbishment schedules are estimates only. We recommend checking for updates as you plan your visit. All information is subject to change without notice. To get the most recent updates, visit DisneyWorld.com or use the MyDisneyExperience App on your iOS or Android device.
View the different areas of the Resort by scrolling horizontally and selecting the one you want to read about.
Magic Kingdom
- The Muppets Present…Great Moments in American History – its final scheduled shows were performed October 5, 2019.
- Move it! Shake it! MousekeDance it! Street Party – two performances scheduled daily only through November 2, 2019.
- Royal Majesty Makers – no longer has scheduled appearances in Fantasyland as of October 2019.
- Captain Jack Sparrow's Pirate Tutorial – Final show was September 29, 2018.
- Stitch's Great Escape – My Disney Experience lists as “available seasonally throughout the year”
Be aware that it is increasingly unlikely it will reopen; the attraction's lobby is usually used for greeting Stitch - Walt Disney World Railroad – Closed as of December 3, 2018 to accommodate TRON construction (reopening to be announced). Guests can visit a Walt Disney World Railroad train at Main Street Station.
Epcot
- Test Track – Will close for refurbishment January 13-February 26, 2020.
- Impressions de France – Closed for refurbishment related to sharing the theater with “Beauty & the Beast Sing-Along” which debuts January 2020.
- Gallery of Arts and History (Morocco Pavilion) – Closed for refurbishment.
- O Canada! – the film has been retired and the theatre currently is the Appleseed Orchard marketplace during the 2019 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival; “Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360” will debut as the new film in January 2020.
- Reflections of China – the film will be retired and will be replaced with “Wondrous China” presented in a seamless 360° digital format.
- Future World “transformation” closings – Major transformation announced at D23 Expo 2019.
Closings and relocations include:- Innoventions – all exhibits now permanently closed, effective September 8, 2019
- Club Cool closed effective September 8 (to reopen in “a new capacity at a future merchandise location”)
- Fountain of Nations closed effective September 8
- Fountain View featuring Starbucks closed effective September 8 (will relocate to a temporary location in late Fall, 2019)
- Meet Disney Pals at the Epcot Character Spot – relocated September 8 (look for signs in Future World West)
- Electric Umbrella will close in Winter 2019-20. (New dining options to be announced)
- Mouse Gear will close in its current location in Winter 2019-20. (It will move to a temporary home to be announced)
- Art of Disney will operate from a temporary location before eventually relocating to Heritage Manor at The American Adventure
- Ellen's Energy Adventure at Universe of Energy – Permanently closed on August 13, 2017.
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind to open in its place in approximately 2021. - Circle of Life: An Environmental Fable – Closed February 3, 2018.
New film entitled “Awesome Planet” will debut in January 2020 - Illuminations: Reflections of Earth – Show retired: September 30, 2019.
Epcot Forever debuted October 1 for a limited run which will be followed by a new nighttime spectacular “HarmonioUS” in 2020 - Liberty Inn – the fast-casual restaurant closed for reimagining starting July 8, 2019.
Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue will open later in 2019 in its place.
Disney's Hollywood Studios
- March of the First Order – concluded parades down Hollywood Boulevard on July 6, 2019.
First Order Stormtroopers have “redeployed” inside Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge - Star Wars: Path of the Jedi – Currently only available during Star Wars Guided Tours
- The Great Movie Ride – Permanently closed August 13, 2017.
The new Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway attraction to open in Chinese Theatre in 2020.
Disney's Animal Kingdom
- Primeval Whirl – is listed as “temporarily closed” with no further published information
As of October 13, 2019, no FastPass+ service is available for the attraction for at least 30 days.
Disney Water Parks
- Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park is closed for enhancements with no announced reopening date.
Disney Springs
- Bongo's Cuban Café– Closed in August 2019
Beatrix from Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises coming to the site at a date to be announced. - DisneyQuest – Closed as of July 3, 2017.
The NBA Experience opened on the site on August 12, 2019. - La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil – Show closed on December 31, 2017.
A new Cirque du Soleil show is in development with previews to begin March 20, 2020, and its world premiere April 17, 2020.
Disney Resorts
- Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – Mizner's Lounge replaced with “Enchanted Rose” a larger venue with a Beauty & the Beast theme.
- Caribbean Beach – The overall construction project at the Resort is expected to be completed 2019–20. The resort's new lobby, restaurants and other amenities, including Sebastian's Bistro, Centertown Market, and Banana Cabana are all now open.
- Disney's Art of Animation Resort – The Big Blue Pool will close for refurbishment beginning in Fall 2020.
- Disney's Beach Club Resort – Beaches & Cream Soda Shop will be closed for refurbishment through winter 2019.
Walt Disney World Golf
- No known closures.
Current Discounts and Promotions
Note: MousePlanet does not edit past Updates to reflect price increases; for up-to-date prices, check the most recent Walt Disney World Resort Update. For your convenience, we have grouped the discount offers based on the intended audience. Check out the category that best matches you, and pick the offer that works best for you. And keep those tips coming—let us know if you find a better or different offer, so we can share it with other readers.
Walt Disney World Resort theme park tickets are rarely offered at deep discounts unless you are a resident of Florida or eligible for U.S. Military Personnel benefits. It is increasingly true that non-Florida residents tend to benefit the most by purchasing tickets in advance (and, of course, being mindful of the rules relevant to those tickets). As prices go up, it becomes even more important to pay heed: Don't get scammed! Never buy tickets from an unofficial or secondary outlet, such as through eBay or Craigslist. Never rent or purchase tickets from people approaching you outside Disney property stating they have remaining days or leftover tickets. This practice is against the terms of use for Walt Disney World Theme Park admissions, and may result in denial of entry. There is no way to determine if these tickets are valid until you try to use them to enter the parks. Only purchase Disney theme park tickets directly from Disney, an authorized seller, or a travel agency like MousePlanet travel partner Get Away Today.
Be sure to move the calendar to at least seven (7) days out, to see what ticket options and discounts are available for your planned visit.
Just click the category you want to expand (or close).
For Everyone
Mid-Day Magic Tickets
Disney has introduced a new park ticket that provides one admission per theme park each day after 12:00 p.m. Visit this page of DisneyWorld.com for more information.
Gift of Magic
For stays most nights January 1 through April 25, 2020, guests can save up to 25% on rooms at select Disney Resort Hotels when booked by January 1, 2020. The offer also includes a $30 Disney Gift Card for each person (ages 3 and up) on the reservation if the reservation is upgraded to a package that includes 6-day or longer theme park tickets. Lots more details are available by visiting this page of DisneyWorld.com or by calling (407)939-2735 or your travel agent.
Fall & Holiday Season Resort Hotel Offers
Save up to 20% on rooms at select Disney Resort hotels in late 2019. Book through December 24, 2019 for stays most nights November 10, 2019 through December 24, 2019.
Deluxe Villas and Resort rooms are offered at up to 20% off; Moderate Resort rooms up to 15% off; Value Resort rooms up to 10%. Visit this page of DisneyWorld.com for all the details, exclusions, dates and availability, or call (407)939-2727 or your travel agent.
Meal Vacation Package Offers
If you are considering a Walt Disney World Vacation Package that includes a non-discounted 5-night/6-day stay, Disney dining plans are included in the package when include the hotel and tickets with Park Hopper Option for arrivals most nights November 17 to 27, and December 8 to 23, 2019. Deluxe Villa and Deluxe Resort packages include the free Disney Dining Plan; Moderate and Value Resort packages include the free Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan. Everyone in the same room must be on the same package and the theme park tickets must be valid for admission on the date of check-in and be used within a limited number of days (which varies by length of stay). Gratuities are not included. Kids between ages 3 and 9 must order from children's menu where applicable. The package does not guarantee access to any specific table-service restaurants.
Read more information and exclusions, and check availability on this page of DisneyWorld.com, or call (407)939-7216 or your travel agent.
Memory Maker pre-arrival discount
Disney's PhotoPass service provides a discount on Disney Memory Maker pre-arrival packages. For $199 plus tax, Walt Disney World guests can digitally download any photos associated with their Memory Maker account, including photos taken on attractions. The advanced purchase price is $169, a $30 savings. Applicable taxes are charged to all orders.
Purchase must be made more than three days prior to arrival at the Walt Disney World Resort for the discount. All sales are final, and not eligible for an exchange or refund. Both the immediate and discount version of Memory Maker can be purchased at this page of DisneyWorld.com.
For Annual Passholders
| Expect to be required to show your Passholder Card and matching photo ID to receive a discount and other benefits. |
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Benefits & Promotions
Epcot encourages Annual Passholders to make repeat visits to the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival by offering a number of benefits and a few “gift” items. Like recent past festivals, there are two complimentary magnets available to Passholders during the Festival (“while supplies last”). Through October 14, Passholders (with valid pass and matching photo ID) could have received a complimentary Chef Minnie magnet; from October 15 through November 23, Passholders can also get a complimentary Chef Remy magnet. Passholders that visit the Festival four times (as tracked by using the AP to enter the park rather than checking in at any particular location inside the park) can also receive a complimentary Chef Minnie wooden coaster set. All of the Passholder “gifts” can be picked up at Mouse Gear or Disney Traders (one of each per Passholder during the specified timeframes and only while supplies last).
Passholder gifts are available during the 2019 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Images ©Disney.
In addition to the usual 20% Passholder discount available on merchandise purchases in the park, there is also a 10% discount on Eat to the Beat Concert Series dining packages. The Festival will also have an assortment of Passholder-exclusive tee shirts, caps, mugs, pins, and more. For Passholders that purchase a special $100 Chef Minnie Disney Gift Card at Mouse Gear, Disney Traders, the Bridge Kiosk or Port of Entry (with valid pass and matching photo ID), they will also receive a $10 digital bonus to use at select Table Service restaurants at the park including Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, Biergarten Restaurant, Coral Reef Restaurant, Garden Grill Restaurant, Le Cellier Steakhouse and Rose & Crown Pub & Dining Room (where the usual 10% AP discount also remains available).Other Discounts and Benefits
The other usual Passholder discounts and benefits continue as well. The updated list is at DisneyWorld.com/PassBenefits.(You may need to sign in to see the full list applicable to your pass.) Don't forget about the dedicated V.I.PASSHOLDER SUPPORT service for questions about Passholder benefits and recommendations. Call (407)WDW-PASS or on-line chat (via chat button on this page of DisneyWorld.com) daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern, by email (via a web form), or in-person at Liberty Square Ticket Office in Magic Kingdom, Ticket Central at Disney's Hollywood Studios, or Ticket Corner at Disney's Animal Kingdom.
Many dining locations offer Passholders 10% discounts during some or all meal periods (excluding alcoholic beverages, tax and gratuity).
The latest information on this page of DisneyWorld.com lists discounts at many merchandise locations across Walt Disney World Resort, including locations that continue to offer 20 percent discounts off regularly priced merchandise. Remember, not all merchandise locations at Walt Disney World are owned and operated by Disney, but some of the non-Disney participants (including restaurants) offer discounts between 10 and 20% to Passholders as well. Note, the current terms and conditions include, “Discount is for personal use only and may not be used to purchase merchandise with the intent to resell the merchandise.“
The latest information on this page of DisneyWorld.com lists discounts for special events and tours at locations around Walt Disney World Resort.
The latest information on this page of DisneyWorld.com lists discounts for sports, recreation, and spas around Walt Disney World Resort.
For the current list of Passholder Extras visit this page of DisneyWorld.com. Passholder Extras include information about V.I.Passholder Perks, discounts on Disney After Hours events, Animal Encounter and tour discounts, Water Park discounts, Golf discounts, and more.
Magic Strollers, “a Disney featured stroller provider,” offers a $5 discount on stroller rental when staying at a Disney Resort Hotel and using coupon code WDWAP18 to arrange your rental. It is listed on the “Passholders Extras” page of the Passholder website (last checked September 9, 2019).
Visit the DisneyWorld.com Special Offers page (filtered for Passholders) and log in with a My Disney Experience account linked to your Annual Pass for information, or call (407) 939-4232 to book by phone.
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
For Disney Rewards VISA Credit Card Holders
| Reminder to MagicBand users: You must still show your Disney Visa credit card to receive discounts and other benefits. Discounts are not automatically applied even if you have linked your Disney Visa credit card to your MagicBand. |
To conserve space, we have eliminated some of the participating location details of the Disney Visa Rewards offers from this section. Visit Disney Visa Rewards website for the latest participating location information.
20 percent off Joffrey's coffee/tea kiosks
Disney Visa cardholders receive 20 percent off their entire purchase at Joffrey's coffee/tea kiosks throughout Walt Disney World, including Tea Traders Café by Joffrey's, and online at Joffreys.com with code: VISABEANS
15 percent off select guided tours
Disney Visa cardholders receive 15 percent off the non-discounted price of selected guided tours for up to 10 people. The cardholder must participate in the tour, and pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card. Discounts are not available on Premium VIP tours, programs exclusive to groups, or group team building programs.
10 percent off select restaurants
Disney Visa cardholders receive 10 percent off the check when you pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card (be sure to request the discount). Offer excludes alcoholic beverages, merchandise, tobacco, room service, holiday buffets, tax and gratuity. Discount may not be available at all meal times. Visit this page of disneyrewards.com for the latest list of restaurants and restrictions.
10 percent off merchandise
Disney Visa cardholders receive 10 percent off at participating Disney-owned retail location when you spend a minimum of $50 and pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card (be sure to request the discount). Read all of the restrictions on the this page of disneyrewards.com.
Cardholders also receive 10% off select merchandise purchases of $50 or more at the following Walt Disney World Resort Operating Participant merchandise locations including Basin, Basin White, Chapel Hats, Good Fortune Gifts and House of Good Fortune, kidsHeritage, Luxury of Time, Marrakesh Emporium Arts & Crafts, Joffrey's coffee/tea kiosks and Tea Traders Café by Joffrey's, Sperry and Volcom.
15 percent off all Disney spa and salon services
Disney Visa cardholders receive 15 percent off the non-discounted price of any salon treatment valued at $45 or greater or any 50-minute or longer spa service most days at the spas and salons at Walt Disney World Resort. Visit this page of disneyrewards.com for participating locations and restrictions.
10 percent off select recreation experiences
Disney Visa cardholders receive 15 percent off the non-discounted price of the recreation experiences listed below:
- Carriage Rides at Disney's Port Orleans Resort and Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
- Horseback Trail Rides at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Free character photos at a private meet and greet location at Epcot
Present your Disney's Visa Card for access to a private character meet-and-greet at Epcot for the cardholder and up to five guests. The event is hosted daily from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Imagination Pavilion at Epcot (enter near the jumping fountains near the exit to the Magic Eye Theater). You'll receive complimentary downloads of your photos (one time per day), which may be accessed in the My Disney Experience smartphone application (or website).
Free character photos at a private meet and greet location at Disney's Hollywood Studios
Present your Disney's Visa card for access to a private character meet-and-greet at the Star Wars Launch Bay in the Animation Courtyard at Disney's Hollywood Studios for the cardholder and up to five guests. The event is hosted daily from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You'll receive complimentary downloads of your photos (one time per day), which may be accessed in the My Disney Experience smartphone application (or website).
For Military Personnel
2019 Military Promotional Tickets
January 1 through December 19, 2019
- Four-Day Park Hopper Tickets –$241.00
- Four-Day Park Hopper Plus Tickets – $291.00
- Five-Day Park Hopper Tickets – $257.00
- Five-Day Park Hopper Plus Tickets – $307.00
Prices do not include tax and tickets must be used by December 19, 2019.
Prices may be lower at U.S. military base ticket offices.
U.S. military personnel can also purchase the Memory Maker product for $98 through December 19, 2019.
For more information, definitions and details, visit this page of DisneyWorld.com. Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased at participating U.S. military sales outlets by eligible service members or their spouses (but not both), for use by themselves and only family members and friends, as provided by Disney's rules. These tickets may not be otherwise transferred, distributed or resold. Limit six (6) tickets purchased by the military personnel (or spouse), and one ticket must be used by that member of the military (or spouse). Each ticket must be used by the same person on any and all days.
Special pricing for Memory Maker is available at Walt Disney World theme park ticket windows when purchased by eligible service members or their spouses. No more than two Memory Maker products can be purchased by an eligible service member or their spouse. Usual Memory Maker restrictions apply and a MagicBand is required to receive some digital content.
2020 Military Promotional Tickets
January 1 through December 18, 2020
- Four-Day Park Hopper Tickets –$265.00
- Four-Day Park Hopper Plus Tickets – $315.00
- Five-Day Park Hopper Tickets – $283.00
- Five-Day Park Hopper Plus Tickets – $333.00
- Six-Day Park Hopper Tickets – $301.00
- Six-Day Park Hopper Plus Tickets – $351.00
Prices do not include tax. Six-Day Tickets must be purchased by December 13, Five-Day Tickets by December 14, Four-Day Tickets by December 15. Tickets may be used from January 1 through December 18, 2020.
Prices may be lower at U.S. military base ticket offices.
U.S. military personnel can also purchase the Memory Maker product for $98 from January 1, 2020, through December 18, 2020.
For more information, definitions and details, visit this page of DisneyWorld.com. Disney Military Promotional Tickets may be purchased at participating U.S. military sales outlets by eligible service members or their spouses (but not both), for use by themselves and only family members and friends, as provided by Disney's rules. These tickets may not be otherwise transferred, distributed or resold. Limit six (6) tickets purchased by the military personnel (or spouse), and one ticket must be used by that member of the military (or spouse). Each ticket must be used by the same person on any and all days.
Special pricing for Memory Maker is available at Walt Disney World theme park ticket windows when purchased by eligible service members or their spouses. No more than two Memory Maker products can be purchased by an eligible service member or their spouse. No more than two Memory Maker products may be purchased at the special price by the service member or spouse. Usual Memory Maker restrictions apply and a MagicBand is required to receive some digital content.
Special Rates at Resort Hotels
U.S. military personnel can enjoy discounts at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels when booking by December 19, 2019, for stays most nights through December 19, 2019. For 2020, discounts are available most nights January 1 through April 4, and April 19 through December 18, 2020, when booked by December 18, 2020. Offer excludes suites in Moderate and Deluxe Resort hotels, 3-bedroom villas, campsites, Cabins at Copper Creek at Disney's Wilderness Lodge, The Little Mermaid Standard Rooms at Disney's Art of Animation Resort, and Bungalows at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort. For 2019 rates, call (407)939-4249 for information and reservations, and find 2019 eligibility details listed on this page of DisneyWorld.com. For 2020 information and details, visitthis page or call (407)939-7825.
Read more information at militarydisneytips.com, visit your base ticket office, or when at Walt Disney World, visit Shades of Green.
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
For Florida Residents
| Expect to be required to show proof of Florida Residency for discounts and benefits. |
Seasonal Flex Ticket
Florida residents can purchase tickets for use on most dates through February 29, 2020, without picking a specific start date. The tickets, which can be used on non-consecutive days, must be purchased by December 17, 2019, and used in their entirety by February 29, 2020. The tickets are blocked out November 21-28, 2019, and December 18, 2019, through January 2, 2020.
- 3-Day 1-Park Per Day Seasonal Flex Ticket – $249 plus tax ($83 per day plus tax)
- 4-Day 1-Park Per Day Seasonal Flex Ticket – $269 plus tax ($68 per day plus tax)
Visit this page of DisneyWorld.com and click on “Read More” in the Florida Resident Seasonal Flex Tickets section. That page also provides a link where Florida Residents can save 40% on 4-Day Tickets and 30% on 3-Day Tickets compared to the non-resident prices of the same tickets when selecting specific visit start dates.
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
For Disney Vacation Club Members
Member Benefits and Discounts may be found on this page of DisneyVacationClub.com. Note: some benefits and discounts are only available to those with a valid Disney Vacation Club Membership Card which is only available to Members owning at least 75 Vacation Points purchased directly from Disney Vacation Development, Inc.
Call DVC Member Services at (800) 800-9800 to take advantage of most offers.
If you know of an offer that you think most Members do not know about, please drop us an email with the details.
For New England Residents
The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort celebrates February's big football game victory by the team from New England by offering the Champions Package to residents of New Hampshire, Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. For stays through December 24, 2019 (minimum stay of three nights required), the Champions Package includes $100 meal credit, which can be used at Shula's Steak House (named for NFL's winningest coach, Don Shula) or any other restaurant at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort. It also includes a “one category complimentary room upgrade that does not include suite upgrades.” Guests must have valid state identification at check-in from an eligible state. More information and details of the offer are available at this page of SwanDolphin.com. More information and reservations are available by calling (800)227-1500 and mentioning “CHAMPS.”
For Canada Residents
Until February 2020, Canadian residents can save 20% on theme park tickets. They must be purchased by February 7, 2020, and the offer is NOT available at theme park ticket windows. Visit Disneyworld.ca/tickets for more information.
All adults using Canada resident tickets or passes must present valid proof of Canada residency that includes government-issued photo ID to exchange the certificate for a valid ticket at the theme park ticket window or Guest Relations prior to first use. The offer itself requires advanced purchase; it is not available at Walt Disney World Resort theme park ticket windows. Tickets and options are nontransferable, nonrefundable and exclude events/activities separately priced. Admission is subject to capacity closures and to other restrictions.
Check https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/ca/ for the latest offers from Disney.
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
For U.K. Residents
You can see the latest offers for U.K. residents on Disney World's U.K. packages website. For early 2020 arrivals, the site advertises a package including free dining, $100 gift card, and 14-Day Ultimate Tickets for the price of a 7 Day Ticket with Memory Maker.
If you know of an offer we haven't listed, please drop us an email with the details.
