Today, Walt Disney World announced a multi-level annual pass with both additions and takeaways. The company also chimed in about benefits, pricing, and value plus some special perks of purchasing. Here are 10 important questions answered about the new Disney World annual pass for 2021!
Table of Contents
When Can I Purchase a New Disney World Annual Pass?
Those of us that have already had a Walt Disney World (WDW) annual pass have been able to renew it without issue. But for those that wanted to purchase an annual pass when the parks were closed, it was a no go.
Today, WDW announced that new annual passes may be purchased starting September 8th.
Is the Disney Annual Pass Getting a New Look?
Yes! In honor of Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary, the pass will have a new look. Here’s a peek at the design:
If you like details, you’ll notice the Walt Disney World logo has the original font from when the park opened on October 1, 1971. And even cooler, we’ve got the pie-eyed Mickey Mouse looking as adorable as ever.
Does the Disney World Annual Pass Have Complimentary PhotoPass?
In a word, no. If you already have an annual pass you’re good to go with PhotoPass until you renew. After that, you have to pay $99 to add it on. Personally, I wished they just would have figured it into the new pricing (see below).
New Disney World Annual Pass 2021 Prices
Previously, WDW had a tiered annual pass system for both locals and those of us that live farther away. Today, 4 annual pass tiers have new names and pricing, the lower 3 for Florida residents only:
Pixie Dust Pass – Florida Residents Only
Cost – $399 plus tax if you want to pay all at once. If you want to make payments, it’s $19 per month after a $205 down payment. Current passholders will pay $339 to renew.
Pirate Pass – Florida Residents Only
Cost – $699 plus tax. If you want to make payments, it’s $45 per month after a $205 down payment. Current passholders will pay $594 to renew.
Sorcerer Pass – Florida Residents & DVC Members Only
Cost – $899 plus tax. If you want to make payments, it’s $63 per month after a down payment of $205. Current passholders will pay $764 to renew.
Incredi-Pass
Cost – $1299 plus tax. If you want to make payments, it’s $99 per month after a $205 down payment (Florida residents only). Current passholders will pay $1104 to renew.
How Many Disney World Annual Pass Park Passes?
Since the creation of park passes, all WDW annual passholders have only been allowed to make three park passes at a time. Starting September 8th, that will change and are in addition to park passes when staying at a Walt Disney World Resort:
Pixie Pass – Three park reservations at a time
Pirate Pass – Four park reservations at a time
Sorcerers Pass – Five park reservations at a time
Incredi-pass – Five park reservations at a time
What Are the Disney World Annual Pass Add-Ons?
Gone are the days of free PhotoPass with WDW annual passes. Starting with new annual passes and renewals after September 8th, it’s offering “add-ons” to all four passes that cost extra:
- Water Parks
- Sports
- PhotoPass
Can You Park Hop with the New Disney World Annual Pass
Happily, yes! All four tiers have the ability to park hop. Of course, you’ll need to have a theme park reservation locked down first and head to that park before you can hop starting at 2pm.
Can Disney World Park Tickets Be Exchanged for Annual Passes?
Yes. As long as you have one day left on your park tickets, the price you paid will be deducted from an annual pass. As of right now, if you’re spending more than 11 days in a calendar year at the parks, a WDW annual pass pays for itself.
Are There Disney Annual Pass Blockout Dates?
Yes. The Pixie Dust Pass will have the most blockout dates and the date are generally when the parks have the highest level of attendance like major holidays and in the summer.
Pirate Pass Blockout Dates Calendar
Sorcerer Pass Blockout Dates Calendar
What Are the Perks of a Disney World 2021 Annual Pass?
In addition to theme park admission, annual passes have the following:
- Free theme park parking
- Dining discounts at select WDW restaurants
- Shopping discounts
- Access to V.I.Passholder support to answer pass questions
- Annual Passholder merchandise
- Bonus Reservations from time to time
- An Enhanced Calendar integrated to show blockout dates and theme park availability. You’ll also be able to make, change, or cancel a theme park reservation via the new calendar.
