Howdy Michele!! Let me first welcome you to the Disney Vacation Club!!!!
Unfortunately, as DVC Members, we are not eligible for free dining. However, we do have the opportunity to purchase the Disney Dining Plans and our price is consistent throughout the year. This is a perk during peak seasons as the prices of the Dining Plans do fluctuate depending on the time of year.
We have gone back and forth on whether or not to purchase a Dining Plan throughout our years with DVC. As Members, we receive a 10% discount at a variety of restaurants at the Walt Disney World Resort (check the DVC Member website for a list of participating restaurants). We typically try to make a plan of the restaurants we will be visiting to ensure a Dining Plan is a good fit for us financially. Also, because we have a full kitchen in the one-bedroom (and larger) villas, there have been many trips that we have enjoyed a meal or two in our villa. Because of this, we would not have been able to take full advantage of a Dining Plan.
Have you heard about
Tables in Wonderland? It's another great option available for Disney Vacation Members! Currently, DVC Members can join Tables in Wonderland for $100. Among other benefits, you will receive 20% off on all food and beverages (including alcohol) at over 100 Theme Park and Resort restaurants. We have taken advantage of Tables in Wonderland for several years and each and every year, it more than pays for itself.
As DVC Members, you have a variety of options. I hope this will help you as you plan your September vacation. If you have any other questions as you plan your first magical DVC vacation, please let me know.
Once again, WELCOME TO DVC!!!!!