Hi Laurie, and welcome to planDisney. I love that you're thinking about becoming a
Magic Key holder. As an annual passholder, I can tell you how amazing it is to be able to visit the Disneyland Resort again and again. Let’s get you ready for this magical adventure!
A Magic Key pass activates once you use it to enter a theme park or use the parking benefit for a fully paid first entry into a pay-on-entry lot. That means you can buy it now and activate it later (up to a year from the purchase date). The one-year countdown of your pass being active will start on the first date you use it.
You'll start by making theme park reservations for the dates you wish to visit. With the
Imagine Key, you can hold up to two theme park reservations at a time. Check availability for the Imagine Key on the
Blockout Calendar – a slash indicates the pass can't be used for theme park admission on that date. December, in particular, typically has more blockout dates compared to other months, so it's best to reserve early if you're hoping to visit then. If a date has a circle and slash through it, there are no more reservations at the moment, but check periodically to see if it changes. Sometimes, persistence pays off!
You'll want to be mindful of your
theme park reservations once your pass is active. If you do not enter a theme park on a day you have a reservation for, you'll receive a no-show. After three no-shows in a 90-day period, you'll be unable to make new park reservations or modify existing park reservations for 30 days. To avoid that, make sure to cancel a theme park reservation by 11:59 p.m. the night before if you don't think you'll be able to make it to the parks.
Here are some other tips for making the most of your pass:
- With a Magic Key pass, you can typically visit either park after 11 a.m., regardless of the park you have a reservation for. It gives a lot of flexibility when it comes to dining and entertainment.
- Keep an eye out for exclusive Magic Key extras like complimentary keepsakes, limited-time merchandise, and special dining options. You’ll find details in the Disneyland mobile app or on the website. You can also follow the Disneyland Magic Key account on Instagram to stay in the know.
- You'll be able to use your Imagine Pass to save at participating dining and merchandise locations. Just remember that the discount is only for your personal use and should not be shared.
If you activate your pass near the end of this year, Laurie, you'll step right into the
holiday season at the Disneyland Resort. It's a truly enchanting time of year – I can picture the garland and wreaths adorning Main Street, U.S.A., snow on top of Sleeping Beauty Castle, a towering tree, festive entertainment, and so much more. The holiday magic will run through January 7, 2026, so if you can, plan your visit before then!
Laurie, I hope this has sprinkled a little pixie dust on your Magic Key plans. If you have any other questions, you know
where to find me!
Wishing you many special visits to the Disneyland Resort,
Kriss