Hi Matt and welcome to planDisney! We’re so glad you found us here and submitted your question. Thank you for your service! The
Disney Military Salute offers are an amazing benefit for service members and their families, but I can understand that some of the requirements may not always be easy to understand. That’s where I can help!
The Disney Celebrates America Military Salute offer this year is such a wonderful surprise and will give you the opportunity to visit all four Walt Disney World Resort theme parks until December 18, 2026, with just a couple of blackout periods. As you mentioned in your question, eligible service members or their spouses must present a military ID to purchase up to six tickets, as well as to activate them at the Walt Disney World Resort. Also, at least one of the tickets must be used by the service member or spouse. That means that on the first use of the tickets, either the service member or the spouse must be present at a Walt Disney World Resort theme park to activate the tickets and enter the park. However, once this is complete, everyone whose ticket you have activated may then visit for the duration that the tickets are valid in 2026, without you present to show your ID. For example, I recently visited with my son who is in college and activated tickets for both of us. He can now return on his spring break later in the year without me and enjoy the parks on his own.
Another great perk offered with the Military Salute is a
discounted rate on Disney Resorts Collection hotel rooms. You will need to call to speak with a Cast Member about rates and availability, but this is a great way to stay right in the heart of the magic at the Walt Disney World Resort with extra savings. There is also a reduced price on
Memory Maker, which will allow you to download all of your Disney PhotoPass media from your vacation. You can purchase this at the military rate at any ticket window. I bought this as a special souvenir for myself on the recent trip with my son, and I absolutely treasure our photos together!
Matt, I hope this helps as you think about taking advantage of this amazing offer! If you have any more questions, please be sure to send them my way. I am happy to help any time and always love adding a little extra pixie dust to your Disney vacation planning!
Casey