Hi Bryan,
Welcome to planDisney! There's nothing quite like planning a visit to
Walt Disney World Resort- sometimes, the countdown is just as fun as the vacation itself! There's so much to look forward to, from the four uniquely themed parks to the incredible resort hotels and world-class dining. If you're like me, you'll find joy in every step of the planning journey, especially when it becomes a family affair. I always recommend gathering your crew, researching
Disney Resorts Collection hotels that align with your style and budget, and even watching some planDisney video tips together. For seasonal planning inspiration, you might want to check out our episodes on fan-favorite events like the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts or the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival.
While dates for 2026 aren't available yet, you're not alone in your excitement! Another Guest recently asked a similar question, and here’s what we know: Walt Disney World Resort typically releases vacation packages for the following year during the late spring/early summer. If history is any guide, we can expect 2026 bookings to open sometime in the next few months. Keep an eye on the
Disney Parks Blog for the official announcement, as it’s usually the first place new information is shared.
In the meantime, I’d suggest diving into the
Vacation Planning Tool on the Walt Disney World website. It’s a great way to get a ballpark estimate for your trip by selecting your preferred resort and park ticket type and exploring the two Disney Dining Plans currently available. Just remember that prices are subject to change, and Disney often rolls out
Special Offers, Deals & Discounts throughout the year—another great reason to stay tuned to official channels.
Here's a budget-friendly tip: When you book a Walt Disney World Vacation Package, you only need to make a deposit when booking. From there, you can make payments on your own schedule, with the final balance due 30 days before your arrival. This is not a formal payment plan, but it does give Guests the flexibility to budget at their own pace.
I hope this helps answer your question, Bryan! If you’d like help narrowing down a Disney Resort hotel, choosing the right park ticket options, or even hearing about my must-do dining locations, I’d love to help.
Just send me another question (or two), and I'll gladly walk through it all with you.
See you real soon,
Brent