Disney is trying really hard to get bookings up for 2026. If you have kids aged 3-9 and you like paying for the Disney Dining Plan, you may be able to save a bit of money next year. They must be getting a bit worried over at Walt Disney World.
Throughout all of 2026, kids can get free dining if everyone else in the party purchases a dining plan.
“Throughout all of 2026, guests staying at one of our more than 25 Disney Resort hotels will get a free dining plan for their kids (ages 3 to 9) when purchasing a dining plan as part of their package for the other members of their party (ages 10 and up). Dining plans can help you maximize your stay with added peace of mind, letting you enjoy some of the many dining locations we offer from meals to snacks and kid-friendly favorites. ”
Interestingly enough they are also allowing the free dining to be combined with “select special offers.”
Normally, the Disney Dining Plan isn’t that great of a deal, unless it’s 100% free or you eat a lot of table service meals. What is interesting here is that the deal is being offered as combinable with other discounts.
“The kids free dining plan offering can be combined with other select special offers, meaning you may still be eligible to take advantage of other deals we later roll out for 2026.”
When I see that Disney is allowing the free dining to be combined with other offers, it tells me that they are probably trying to entice guests and get bookings up for Walt Disney World in 2026. People are looking for deals because the economy is not great.
Inflation and pricing at Disney Parks have been out of control, and Disney is seemingly realizing they need to cut expenses to get more guests.
Their realization is an opportunity for you. If you plan on visiting Walt Disney World in 2026 with small children, it might be a good deal for you, depending on what other special offers you can combine with.
Booking for 2026 will open tomorrow, April 22, 2025.
Contact your preferred travel agent or visit the Walt Disney World website to book your trip. If you use a Disney authorized travel agent and better deals become available later, they can help you get the best deal for you and your party.
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