Mickey and Minnie Statues in Front of Cinderella's Castle During Fireworks
  • On Feb 5, 2024
    Laura from TN Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Is it better to purchase an annual pass in advance or should we wait until we arrive at our resort? If we purchase in advance, will our passes expire on the date of first use or the date of purchase? Thank you.

    Hi Laura! Thanks for coming to planDisney with your question! It sounds like you're planning for an upcoming visit as well as a magical year ahead with your pending status of Walt Disney World Resort Annual Passholder! There's no better way to guarantee magic and memories throughout the year!

    To purchase your annual pass, you may do so in person at any theme park ticket window or at Disney Springs, or you may purchase online in advance. Once you have purchased and linked your pass to your My Disney Experience account, it will show an expiration date of one year from purchase initially; however, once you enter a theme park for the first time, your pass will activate and the expiration date will change to one year from its first date of use!

    One of the benefits of purchasing your pass online ahead of time is to secure your theme park reservations in advance of your next visit. At this time, Passholders are still required to make theme park reservations for any park they wish to enter before 2 PM, except on designated Good-to-Go Days. If you wait to purchase your annual pass when you arrive, there is a chance your desired theme parks could be at capacity and you would have to adjust your plans. You can keep an eye on the theme park availability online to help with your planning. Another benefit of purchasing in advance is it allows you to skip the lines at the ticket booth and head straight for the fun of the theme parks! 

    Laura, whatever you decide, your annual pass comes with a variety of special perks and discounts, so be sure to read all about the benefits of being an Annual Passholder so you can take advantage of all that extra magic! Feel free to come see us again as you begin a most magical year! 

    Magic Awaits,
    Alison
thumbnail image for Alison

Meet the Panelist: Alison, Louisiana

I'm Alison - a wife, mom, and teacher from New Orleans, LA. My first childhood visit to the Walt Disney World Resort sparked a lifelong love of this magical place, and I still find magic in both the new and nostalgic on each visit! I understand the changing dynamics of planning a practically perfect vacation; no matter how large your group is or what your interests are, I look forward to helping you create magical memories and discover unique experiences to make them even more enchanting! Learn More About Alison

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