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Credit: Brian McGowan, UnsplashDisney World just gave its most loyal fans something to cheer about.
Starting in 2026, Annual Passholders across all pass tiers are getting access to some of the deepest resort hotel discounts, which is a major update for those hoping to kickoff the new year on the right foot. For a group that has faced price increases, park reservations, and occasional frustrations, this update feels like a major win.
A Refresher on Disney Annual Passes
The Walt Disney World Annual Pass program is designed for guests who want the magic all year long. There are four tiers of passes:
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Pixie Dust Pass (exclusive to Florida residents)
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Pirate Pass (also for Florida residents)
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Sorcerer Pass (available to Florida residents and Disney Vacation Club members)
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Incredi-Pass (open to everyone, with zero blockout dates)
No matter the tier, all Passholders enjoy free standard parking, discounts on dining and merchandise, and occasional extras like previews for new attractions. Add-ons, such as unlimited Disney PhotoPass downloads or the Water Park and Sports option, let Passholders tailor the experience even further.
The 2026 Update from Disney World
Here’s where things get exciting: between January and April 2026, Disney is offering 20% to 35% off resort hotel stays—and it applies to every Annual Passholder. That means if you’ve got a Pixie Dust Pass or the top-tier Incredi-Pass, you’re still eligible.
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Deluxe resorts like Disney’s Grand Floridian, Yacht Club, and Animal Kingdom Lodge will offer up to 35% off on most nights starting in late February.
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Moderate resorts such as Coronado Springs and Caribbean Beach will feature discounts up to 30% off.
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Value resorts, including Pop Century and All-Star Music, will offer 25% off stays.
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Even Fort Wilderness campsites are part of the deal, with 25% off during select dates.
For families debating whether to book a longer trip or just a weekend, these discounts could easily help sway the decision.
Why This Is a Big Deal
With this 2026 update, every pass level is included, which makes the program more worthwhile, especially for starting out in 2026. While many fans hope that Disney will decrease prices on Annual Passes themselves, we don’t anticipate that happening. However, these savings can be a big deal for you if you’re already an Annual Passholder or will be in 2026.
Resort stays are one of the highest costs of any Disney vacation, and when you can knock a third off your hotel bill, the savings add up fast. For some, this could mean being able to stay on the property instead of looking at off-site options.
Don’t Forget the Other Perks
On top of the discounts, Passholders keep their usual lineup of benefits. Free parking saves at least $30 per day, dining discounts make those character meals more affordable, and shopping perks are handy for EPCOT festival booths or holiday merch.
And with Disney still offering “Good-to-Go Days”—where reservations aren’t needed—Passholders have more flexibility than they’ve had in years.
Final Thoughts
Disney World’s 2026 Annual Pass update is a rare move that feels like it genuinely gives something back. Instead of raising prices or cutting perks, this time Disney is cutting costs for Passholders in a meaningful way. By opening up resort discounts, the company is rewarding everyone equally and making the pass program more attractive, which is a win for those who want to stay in the magic year-round.
If you’ve been thinking about buying or renewing, 2026 may be the year to lock it in. With the savings on hotels, the perks already included, and the flexibility Disney is introducing, Passholders are finally seeing some real value returned.