Pluto at Magic Kingdom
  • On Jun 10, 2025
    Zachary from FL Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    I’m wanting to purchase a season pass for 2026 if I bought one now would it start now or would it start when we go to the park in January of 2026

    Welcome to planDisney, Zachary!

    I'm thrilled to see you're interested in joining the Walt Disney World Annual Passholder family. I'm an Annual Passholder myself, and there's nothing quite like knowing practically any day could end on Main Street, U.S.A.! 

    Per the Walt Disney World Resort Annual Pass Terms and Conditions, an Annual Pass is not active until it is used for theme park entry and must be activated within one year of the purchase date. Happily, this means that you can indeed purchase an Annual Pass today and wait until January 2026 to use it for the first time. Under these circumstances, your pass would expire in January 2027 since an Annual Pass is valid for one year from the date of activation. If you were to purchase a pass today but were unable to visit Walt Disney World within the next 12 months, your pass would expire, but fortunately, its value would not be lost. You would be able to apply the monetary value of your unused, expired pass towards the value of a new Annual Pass or theme park ticket. 

    Since you're one of Mickey's Floridian neighbors, you'll have several Annual Pass options to choose from and can pay for your pass in monthly installments. You'll even have the option to verify your Florida residency online upon checkout. Just like magic! Once you've activated your Annual Pass, Zachary, you'll be able to take advantage of some pretty incredible Passholder perks like discounts on experiences, dining, and merchandise, exclusive treats and merchandise, and even the occasional pixie-dusted freebie! Be sure to keep an eye on the Passholder Buzz in the My Disney Experience app for the most up-to-date information!

    Thanks for stopping by planDisney with your question, Zachary. I hope what I shared is helpful! If you have any additional questions about Annual Passes or want suggestions for maximizing the value of your pass, feel free to come see us again at planDisney. You've got a friend in me!

    Thinking Happy Thoughts,
    Lizzie
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Meet the Panelist: Lizzie, Georgia

Oh, hi! Lizzie here - a wife, dog mom, and 'Disney adult' perpetually planning my family's next magical vacation. My happy thoughts include Walt Disney World snacks, character hugs, photo ops, and balloons on Main Street, U.S.A. Whether you're planning to visit with friends or with family, for a week or a weekend, to splurge or to save, I'm here to help you embrace your inner hakuna matata as you stroll through The Most Magical Place on Earth with your favorite Mickey-shaped snack in hand!
Learn More About Lizzie

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