Hey there, Mike. Welcome to planDisney.
The
Disney Dining Plan sure is a fan favorite and everyone is curious just when it will be brought back for Guests to enjoy. The good news is that a few weeks ago the
Disney Parks Blog did release an article letting us all know that yes, indeed, the Disney Dining Plan will return. The bad news is they aren't sure of an exact date just yet. So, as of right now, we are just waiting for an update. Since your Walt Disney World vacation is still a year out, I think there is a likely chance that we will see it come back for your trip. If it does return, and you have already booked your Walt Disney World vacation package, I am certain you'll be able to add it on. If it looks anything like it previously did, you'll probably have up to 48 hours prior to your check-in to add it on.
Until then, if you'd like to set some money aside for dining during your Walt Disney World vacation I recommend picking up
Disney gift cards between now and your vacation. I like to grab one when I am grocery shopping each week. It doesn't add a lot to my bill each week but I am always surprised at how quickly they can add up. I also like to ask for Disney Gift Cards around the holidays for gifts and then save them for our trips. I like using Disney Gift Cards in place of the Disney Dining Plan right now because they are already paid for and have to be used for something at Walt Disney World. It's a really similar concept to the Disney Dining Plan and it certainly makes it easier to get that splurgy meal!
I hope the Disney Dining Plan returns before your vacation next year, Mike. Feel free to keep checking back here for updates or keep an eye out over on the Disney Parks Blog. When an announcement is made, that's where we will be able to find all of the details. If you have any other questions,
stop back by and ask me. I'm happy to help.
Have a great day!