Hi Dana!
Welcome to planDisney!
I’m happy to report that
park hopping is included with your Annual Pass and will remain the same even with the changes coming to park reservations when the
Starlight parade debuts at Magic Kingdom on July 20, 2025.
Since your group wants to start the day at Epcot, go ahead and
make your reservation for that park. Once you’ve scanned into Epcot, you can hop to any park, including Magic Kingdom. Of course, it’s good to note that entry into a park is always pending park capacity. So, keep that in mind and plan accordingly depending on crowd levels.
Your trip is timed perfectly to be there right at the beginning of
Epcot’s Food & Wine Festival this year. Not only are you staying at one of my favorite resorts, but you’re also going during one of my favorite festivals! And staying so close to Epcot makes it easy to enjoy all the festival has to offer.
As the festival gets closer, keep an eye on the
Disney Parks Blog for any festival announcements, including the Disney Eats Foodie Guide. There will be over 35 Global Marketplaces around Epcot this year, and I can only imagine how delicious it will all be!
I hope you guys have the best time together! Let us know if you have any other questions. We’re always happy to help!
Jenn J.