Hi Wade,
Welcome to planDisney! So glad you're here with this great question, and even happier to hear that you'll be visiting Walt Disney World in 2026 so that you can take full advantage of the
"kids eat free" promotion. It's a great deal that my family is looking forward to taking advantage of later this year as well! The
Dining Plans allow you to pay for your meals in advance so your vacation has more of an "all-inclusive" flair to it. The fact that kids' plans are free this year is icing on the
cinnamon roll (this iconic menu item at
Gaston's Tavern in Magic Kingdom counts as a snack credit with the Dining Plans by the way, just in case you were suddenly wondering).
If your children will be between the ages of 3-9 during your stay, they do qualify for the "kids eat free" promotion. However, they will need to enter the parks using children's tickets. While this will require a little work on your part, it's an easy fix. Simply
contact the resort and speak with a cast member. Let them know about your ticket issue and the ages your Mouseketeers will be during your trip and they'll be happy to help you switch their tickets and get your Dining Plan details straightened out.
Adult tickets are priced a bit higher than children's tickets, so you may even save a little cash while you're getting things corrected. If you're anything like me, you'll be putting that cash directly into your Disney merchandise fund. I love to shop either during my trip at the parks and
Disney Springs or ahead of my trip on the
Disney Store website for accessories and cool Disney gear. You can never have too many Mickey tees!
I hope this information is helpful, Wade. If you need any additional help with planning or suggestions for your trip this summer come on back! We'll see ya real soon!
Your pal,
Sakinah