Credit: ITMIf you’re an Annual Passholder at Disney World, you’ve probably had that “Is this even worth it?” moment more than once.
Between rising prices, reservation hurdles, and perks that felt more like afterthoughts, it’s no surprise many fans started feeling a bit underappreciated. But something has shifted lately—and it’s finally starting to feel like Disney might be turning the tide.
While they haven’t dropped prices (we’ll get to that), the recent flurry of Passholder-exclusive perks actually has people excited to use their passes again. And that’s a sentence we haven’t said in a while.
Crushin’ It With New Magnet Drops
Let’s start with the latest collectible that has fans lining up: the Crush magnet.
This new Finding Nemo–themed magnet features everyone’s favorite chill sea turtle and is available now at Disney’s Animal Kingdom through September 27, 2025. Passholders can snag theirs at Discovery Trading Company or Riverside Depot—but remember, you’ll need a valid Annual Pass and ID to claim it.
Disney has been doing regular magnet drops lately, but Crush feels like a crowd-pleaser that’s bringing a little bit of that classic magic back. It’s cute, limited-time, and genuinely fun to collect. And judging by the social buzz, guests are showing up just for this.
The Crush WDW Passholder magnet is available today through Sept. 27 at Animal Kingdom. Pickup at Discovery Trading Company or Riverside Depot. pic.twitter.com/yVsJPvTWy3
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) August 7, 2025
Magic Shots and Sweet Treats Just for You
But it doesn’t stop there. Disney also rolled out Finding Nemo–inspired Magic Shots exclusively for Annual Passholders. These aren’t your average PhotoPass snaps—these are themed and timed just right. One includes Becky flying overhead with a pail of Nemo and Marlin, while another features a Mount Wannahockaloogie postcard and Peach the starfish. And of course, Hank the octopus makes a cheeky appearance in the third shot. All three will be available until September 27.
Need something to snack on while you wait for your photo? Disney’s thought of that too. The Totally Sweet Sundae at Dino-Bite Snacks and the Just Keep Swimming Float at Joffrey’s are both Passholder exclusives. It’s a small gesture—but a delicious one—and fans are eating it up.
Exclusive Merch Drops
This one might’ve flown under the radar, but it’s a big deal for longtime passholders: Disney is releasing exclusive merchandise again.
One of the newest items is a Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party shirt, only available to Annual Passholders. You can grab it at Magic Kingdom, and it’s a nice change to see Disney offering merch that feels like a reward rather than just another product on a shelf.
Whether you’re a collector or just like showing off your AP status, having something only passholders can wear adds that VIP touch the program’s been missing.
A Gift Card That Softens the Blow
Let’s be honest—Annual Pass prices are still pretty steep. And no, this recent wave of perks doesn’t suddenly make the cost easy to swallow. But Disney is throwing a bit of a bone to new pass buyers: a gift card offer.
Depending on the type of pass you purchase, you could get up to a $100 Disney gift card. Incredi-Pass holders get the full $100, Sorcerer Pass gets $75, Pirate Pass gets $50, and the Pixie Pass includes $25. Sure, it’s only for new purchases—not renewals—but it’s still a decent perk that helps offset the cost if you’re on the fence.
It’s Not Perfect, But It’s a Start
Let’s be clear: there’s still a long way to go before the Annual Passholder program feels truly magical again. Most fans would prefer actual price drops or more meaningful discounts across the board. There’s also the ever-present wish for less restrictive park hopping and fewer blockout dates.
But when you add everything up—an adorable magnet, exclusive treats, fun photos, limited merch, and even a little money back—it’s starting to feel like Disney’s actually trying.
Is it a game-changer? Not quite. But it’s definitely movement in the right direction. And for Passholders who’ve felt a bit overlooked in recent years, that’s something worth celebrating.