Hello there, Malcolm. Thanks for stopping by with your question.
Here at
planDisney, we are a group of moms, dads, grandparents and even puppy parents who have a love of sharing our knowledge about visiting the Walt Disney World Theme Parks. We love giving planning tips and sharing our favorite restaurants. Unfortunately, because we are Guests just like you, we are not privy to information ahead of time. Because of this, I am also not sure when the
Disney Dining Plan will return. The good news is a few weeks ago, the
Disney Parks Blog did update us to let us know that they've heard the outpouring of love for the Disney Dining Plan and it will, indeed, be returning. They just aren't quite sure of a release date at the moment. I think the Disney Dining Plan will return to us when we see most, if not all of the Walt Disney World restaurants reopened again. We are returning to a world of magic more and more every day so I don't think it will be too long of a wait now. If you go ahead and book your Walt Disney World vacation package and the Disney Dining Plan is released for your travel dates, I am certain you'll be able to add it on to your existing reservation. Previously, Guests had up to 48 hours prior to their check-in date to add it on and I think it will be like that again.
Until then, I suggest picking up
Disney Gift Cards to use on dining between now and your vacation next spring. Using Disney Gift Cards is similar to the Disney Dining Plan because they are already paid for ahead of time and have to be used for something at Walt Disney World while you are on vacation. I like to add a small dollar amount gift card to my grocery cart each week. It doesn't add a lot to my bill but I am always surprised at how quickly they can add up. Knowing things are paid for ahead of time makes it a lot easier to get that fancy meal or snack when you are on vacation.
I'm sorry I don't have a clear answer for you just yet. But be sure to keep checking back here or over on the Disney Parks Blog for more announcements. If you have any other questions, please feel free to stop back by and
ask me. I'm here to help! Have fun and happy planning!