Hi Chris! Welcome to planDisney!
There is nothing quite like becoming a
Walt Disney World Annual Passholder! Being able to visit the theme parks at your leisure (park reservations are required for entry currently) sounds like a dream to me. Being a Florida resident is the icing on the cake since this will most likely allow you to visit the parks that much more often.
When you purchase an Annual Pass, the activation of the year does not begin until the first time you enter a Walt Disney World theme park. From this date, you will have a full calendar year to use your pass. I would recommend purchasing the pass when you are ready, and not waiting until the last minute to do so. You never know when offerings are going to change or be modified at the
Walt Disney World Resort.
Currently, only one out of the four types of Annual Passes are being offered. The Disney Pixie Dust Pass is the one and is only available to Florida residents. The pass will give you access to the parks on most weekdays, but it does have a substantial amount of blackout dates throughout the year. I suggest
looking at the calendar to make sure that this pass will work for your intended purposes. The remaining three options are unavailable at this time, but I am optimistic that there may be a return in the near future. The best place to find out any up-to-date information is by following the
Disney Parks Blog for any announcements.
Once you do become a
Walt Disney World Annual Passholder, make sure to take advantage of all the discounts and benefits that come your way. You will receive food, beverage, and merchandise discounts at most locations throughout the parks and resorts. This benefit alone is reason enough for my family to purchase when we are able to do so again. Also, be on the lookout for any After Hour events that may be announced in the coming future. You'll typically receive a discounted cost to purchase tickets to these events.
Chris, let me be the first to congratulate you on your decision to become a Walt Disney World Annual Passholder! The next step is to go ahead and secure your passes!
See ya real soon!
Greg