Hello, Derek!
Thanks for stopping by planDisney. As a
Magic Key passholder myself, I always love chatting with Guests who are thinking about joining the Magic Key family!
I have good news! According to the current
Magic Key Terms and Conditions, your pass isn’t considered activated until you use it to enter a Disneyland Resort theme park for the first time. So if you purchased a pass now but didn’t scan into a park until your trip in January, your one-year term would begin on that first entry day. Just keep in mind that a pass will expire if it isn’t activated within one year of purchase! Also, Magic Key sales can pause from time to time, so if you see the pass you want available, it’s smart to grab it sooner rather than later.
Personally, I love my Believe Key! It lets me visit during most of my kids’ school breaks while costing less than the Inspire Key. The new Explore Key is also a great fit for Guests who live out of state (or out of the country, in your case!) and plan to visit at least six times a year. Just be sure to look closely at the blockout dates for each pass. For example, the Believe Key works for most days, but Saturdays are often blocked, so I simply plan my trips to start on Sundays.
Make sure to take advantage of all the great discounts available to Magic Key holders during your trip! It’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a Table Service meal or pick up a few extra souvenirs. I also love dining at
Magic Key terrace, the exclusive lounge just for Magic Key holders and their Guests. The food is delicious, and the views can't be beat! Reservations are typically available up to 60 days in advance on the Disneyland website, so keep an eye out when your travel dates get close.
Derek, I hope you have a wonderful trip to Disneyland! Do not hesitate to reach out to planDisney again if you have additional questions!
Magic Happens!
Jen