Credit: DisneyThere’s something new brewing in the heart of Magic Kingdom—and it’s not part of the daily parade or a fresh snack at your favorite quick-service spot. Tucked away in a part of the park many guests stroll past without a second glance, Disney is quietly setting the stage for a new offering that’s sure to turn heads this summer.
Unlike most seasonal surprises, this one isn’t being shouted from the rooftops or plastered across promotional banners. In fact, if you weren’t paying attention, you might not even realize something has changed. But for those in the know, it could become one of the most buzzed-about experiences inside the park this season.
What makes it so special? Well, it’s not just about photo ops or limited-time merch (though there might be a bit of that). This one’s all about exclusivity—and unless you meet a very specific requirement, you’ll walk right past without ever knowing what you missed.
If you’re an Annual Passholder, Disney is making this summer just a little more magical—especially if you’re a fan of all things villainous.
As part of its limited-time V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days celebration, Disney just announced a brand-new experience exclusively for Annual Passholders at Magic Kingdom. And let’s just say…it’s got a wicked twist.
A Villainous Photo Op Worthy of Fantasyland
Beginning June 15 and running through July 31, a special Maleficent-themed photo opportunity will be available in Magic Kingdom—but only for those with an Annual Pass. It’s located in Fantasyland, tucked away by the castle walls to the right of Pinocchio Village Haus, and will operate daily from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
This isn’t just any photo spot—it’s a Disney PhotoPass Magic Shot that brings in Diablo, Maleficent’s loyal raven, to enhance your picture. The setup adds a darkly whimsical flair to your park memories, and it’s all part of the special perks that come with being a Passholder this summer.
More V.I.PASSHOLDER Magic
This new Magic Kingdom experience is just one piece of a larger initiative to give Annual Passholders some extra love this season. As part of V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days, Passholders can also pick up a limited-edition Maleficent magnet and enjoy exclusive access to a Passholder lounge at EPCOT through July 13.
On top of that, Disney’s also offering Passholder-only merchandise (some of it themed to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT), along with a Maleficent-themed tumbler designed by artist Joey Chou.
Dining perks are in play too—select restaurants across the parks are offering 40% off to Passholders Monday through Thursday, which is one of the steepest dining discounts we’ve seen in years.
Why This Matters for Passholders
Disney’s clearly making an effort to reward its most loyal guests with unique experiences that go beyond the typical merchandise discounts or occasional previews. And this summer, those efforts are being felt across multiple parks.
The new photo op adds a personalized touch to the park-going experience, especially for those who’ve longed for more exclusive perks inside Magic Kingdom itself—where Passholder-specific perks are often the least visible.
It also comes during the same summer that Hollywood Studios will debut its brand-new stage show Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After, adding to the villain energy that seems to be taking over Walt Disney World this season.
If you’re a Passholder, now’s a great time to lean into all those extra perks—and maybe show a little villainous flair in your summer photo collection.
Just don’t forget to bring your Pass and ID to access all these benefits. After all, even Maleficent needs a reservation.