******Official 2017 Free Dining Plan Watch, Wait, and Dream

[ParryOttertheChosenBoy]

I am going to take what will probably be the unpopular view here and say that I think Disney travel agents, including the Dreams agents on the podcast, create a lot of these headaches for themselves.

Truth is, pretty much every Disney travel agent markets one of their big selling points as "book with us and we will watch for discounts and apply them to your reservation as they come out." So all those people who do not follow the boards and the web sites obsessively, and don't know all the history and the details and the ins and outs of promotions like free dining, see that this great offer for a free dining plan comes out, and they expect their travel agent can just hop on the computer and apply it to their reservation. And then their travel agent has to explain to them "well, no, in this case we can't just apply the discount to your reservation and, in fact, the fact that you booked ahead of time may actually result in less availability of free dining, hurting your chances." Which naturally results in the client being confused and upset.

So, no, I'm not particularly sympathetic to travel agents who get frustrated over their clients and free dining.

In my (limited) experience this is what I encountered too. Basically just "You'd better book now!! Limited availability! Then I'll get right to work on your reservation when FD comes out." This board has been really helpful explaining the process and now I understand everything much better.

Also, it bothers me a little that some people seem to get annoyed at the clamor over FD. For many of us, it has nothing to do with the thrill of getting something for "free" or being able to stuff ourselves with abandon to maximize our value. For some people, while they might still be going to WDW with or without FD, securing FD would make a huge difference. Money is extremely tight for my family because we are saving for a house. We want to take this trip because we have never been on a true family vacation, and our daughter will be at what we think is the perfect age for her to visit. Sure, we will do it and enjoy it either way, because we have been through a lot and taking the time as a family to do this is important to us. But being able to get FD would help us breathe much more easily and would give us a break from the penny pinching and planning of everyday life. To many of us, that is HUGE. I think some people forget that perspective when rolling their eyes at those of us obsessing over FD.

 

[prettypatchesmsu]

@prettypatchesmsu where have you been hiding?

Hey you!!! Sweet of you to notice! I saw you pop back around here in March and smiled at your posts I like seeing you posting! I see @black562 had also arrived, just need @smitch425 and it'll be old times! I've not seen her in the MNSSHP thread either. I've been lurking mostly in this thread, watching and reading when I could. I've been stalking the MNSSHP thread, and Star Wars Dessert Party and some reservation threads. Trying to figure out this "new Disney policy" of not announcing dates for anything until a month before. It's havoc on us over-planners

Real life has been crazy with work and trying to finish this degree. I tell you, going back to school for another degree many years later is not fun. I had finally decided that to advance my career I'd have to suck it up and get another degree, and it's been crazy this past few months of my last semester. I'll be done in May though, and I can return my full attention to my Disney Obsession! (Let's not talk about the new job thing...) I'm lucky to have my FD bounce back again this year, so I can just support others instead of having to get in the hubbub. I need to post more, and I've been trying lately. My Disney craziness is firing back up, basically after I did my ADRs haha! It's like a gateway drug, I'm hooked again and back on the boards.

 

[Charolette]

Slightly off topic but it is food related. I booked the Fireworks Dessert Party at Tomorrowland Terrace. Thoughts? Good? Bad? Great view? Save your money? I might also mention if I can snag reservations for the Star Wars Dessert Party at DHS I'm definitely doing that one and dropping this one. This is more of a backup in case I can't get that and/or some darn BOG reservations. I thought this might be neat but I really don't know much about it.

We did the Star Wars dessert party last fall & thought it was worth every penny! Our view was excellent & we didn't have to sit around to hold a spot for an hour before we could relax with really good refreshments then be marched out to the viewing area by storm troopers. We liked it so much we plan to do it again this fall!

 

[KimBean]

In my (limited) experience this is what I encountered too. Basically just "You'd better book now!! Limited availability! Then I'll get right to work on your reservation when FD comes out." This board has been really helpful explaining the process and now I understand everything much better.

Also, it bothers me a little that some people seem to get annoyed at the clamor over FD. For many of us, it has nothing to do with the thrill of getting something for "free" or being able to stuff ourselves with abandon to maximize our value. For some people, while they might still be going to WDW with or without FD, securing FD would make a huge difference. Money is extremely tight for my family because we are saving for a house. We want to take this trip because we have never been on a true family vacation, and our daughter will be at what we think is the perfect age for her to visit. Sure, we will do it and enjoy it either way, because we have been through a lot and taking the time as a family to do this is important to us. But being able to get FD would help us breathe much more easily and would give us a break from the penny pinching and planning of everyday life. To many of us, that is HUGE. I think some people forget that perspective when rolling their eyes at those of us obsessing over FD.

Yes and those that can spend more a room discount is great but for those of us that are in a value at one of the lowest prices ($100 a night) then an even 30% room discount which it's usually more like 15% for value represents a $100-200 savings for a week. Since even being frugal that might take care of two days of food for a family of 4, one can see that free dining is a substantial discount. And for some will make or break whether they go or stay onsite.

 

[Greg36]

I think it is interesting that Disney is letting people 'stack' the Canadian ticket offer with room discounts. Anyone have any luck stacking the Canadian ticket offer with the limited free dining offer a few months ago or any luck stacking it with a free dining bounceback offer?

 

[KimBean]

In my (limited) experience this is what I encountered too. Basically just "You'd better book now!! Limited availability! Then I'll get right to work on your reservation when FD comes out." This board has been really helpful explaining the process and now I understand everything much better.

Also, it bothers me a little that some people seem to get annoyed at the clamor over FD. For many of us, it has nothing to do with the thrill of getting something for "free" or being able to stuff ourselves with abandon to maximize our value. For some people, while they might still be going to WDW with or without FD, securing FD would make a huge difference. Money is extremely tight for my family because we are saving for a house. We want to take this trip because we have never been on a true family vacation, and our daughter will be at what we think is the perfect age for her to visit. Sure, we will do it and enjoy it either way, because we have been through a lot and taking the time as a family to do this is important to us. But being able to get FD would help us breathe much more easily and would give us a break from the penny pinching and planning of everyday life. To many of us, that is HUGE. I think some people forget that perspective when rolling their eyes at those of us obsessing over FD.

Oh and to those who roll their eyes. None of this is necessary. No one will die without a vacation. No one needs to go to Disney world. But the wet blankets to our fun and excitement are akin to someone walking into the superbowl and saying what are people making a fuss over, worry about real life, no one will care who won in 5 years. Yep. No one will care. But as long as there are happy diversions from death, bills, and taxes people will participate in them. It's the whole point of living.

It was fun while the thread stayed happy. We got about a month which is longer than most.

 

[KimBean]

Hey you!!! Sweet of you to notice! I saw you pop back around here in March and smiled at your posts I like seeing you posting! I see @black562 had also arrived, just need @smitch425 and it'll be old times! I've not seen her in the MNSSHP thread either. I've been lurking mostly in this thread, watching and reading when I could. I've been stalking the MNSSHP thread, and Star Wars Dessert Party and some reservation threads. Trying to figure out this "new Disney policy" of not announcing dates for anything until a month before. It's havoc on us over-planners

Real life has been crazy with work and trying to finish this degree. I tell you, going back to school for another degree many years later is not fun. I had finally decided that to advance my career I'd have to suck it up and get another degree, and it's been crazy this past few months of my last semester. I'll be done in May though, and I can return my full attention to my Disney Obsession! (Let's not talk about the new job thing...) I'm lucky to have my FD bounce back again this year, so I can just support others instead of having to get in the hubbub. I need to post more, and I've been trying lately. My Disney craziness is firing back up, basically after I did my ADRs haha! It's like a gateway drug, I'm hooked again and back on the boards.

Yay on your degree! Usually I obsess getting plans straight, touring plans, then ADRs, then I make myself take a break until about a month before Fast passes. Lol!!!!

 

[JadeDarkstar]

Kinda MY TA just told me something I did not know. Disney takes a hold of 3 days without a $200 deposit? Is this true? She said I could do it online if a deal comes out and I want to grab a 3-day hold. This ensures I don't lose the deal until she and I can talk. Anyone else done this 3-day hold thing and if so online?

 

[Imbetterwithbacon]

Just looked at this Tread since Pete mentioned during DIS Daily Fix 04/03/17 ... WOW some people are just pain crazy about FD

 

[DisneyLifePapioNe]

Just looked at this Tread since Pete mentioned during DIS Daily Fix 04/03/17 ... WOW some people are just pain crazy about FD

Free Dining is very important, very very very important!!!!!

 

[JackieO]

Just looked at this Tread since Pete mentioned during DIS Daily Fix 04/03/17 ... WOW some people are just pain crazy about FD

This board has been a fun place to share our excitement and get some of our questions answered. Maybe you'll stick around and enjoy the ride with us.

 

[pigletto]

In my (limited) experience this is what I encountered too. Basically just "You'd better book now!! Limited availability! Then I'll get right to work on your reservation when FD comes out." This board has been really helpful explaining the process and now I understand everything much better.

Also, it bothers me a little that some people seem to get annoyed at the clamor over FD. For many of us, it has nothing to do with the thrill of getting something for "free" or being able to stuff ourselves with abandon to maximize our value. For some people, while they might still be going to WDW with or without FD, securing FD would make a huge difference. Money is extremely tight for my family because we are saving for a house. We want to take this trip because we have never been on a true family vacation, and our daughter will be at what we think is the perfect age for her to visit. Sure, we will do it and enjoy it either way, because we have been through a lot and taking the time as a family to do this is important to us. But being able to get FD would help us breathe much more easily and would give us a break from the penny pinching and planning of everyday life. To many of us, that is HUGE. I think some people forget that perspective when rolling their eyes at those of us obsessing over FD.

As I (and others) have posted several times , the Canadian dollar means we are paying 35% more for the same trip as anyone else. So we at least understand the penny pinching this year, and how important a discount can be to the trip. Like you, I get mildly annoyed with the implication that I'm wringing my hands and losing my marbles. It's a fun distraction, an exciting wait, and I'm enjoying dreaming and planning. I however have a pretty good handle on the rest of my life and priorities and assume everyone else in this thread does too. Every few pages or so someone pops up to tell everyone to settle down.. I'm sure that does more for them than any of the rest of us. I'm fine thanks.
I wouldn't worry about it too much.

 

[vever]

In my (limited) experience this is what I encountered too. Basically just "You'd better book now!! Limited availability! Then I'll get right to work on your reservation when FD comes out." This board has been really helpful explaining the process and now I understand everything much better.

Also, it bothers me a little that some people seem to get annoyed at the clamor over FD. For many of us, it has nothing to do with the thrill of getting something for "free" or being able to stuff ourselves with abandon to maximize our value. For some people, while they might still be going to WDW with or without FD, securing FD would make a huge difference. Money is extremely tight for my family because we are saving for a house. We want to take this trip because we have never been on a true family vacation, and our daughter will be at what we think is the perfect age for her to visit. Sure, we will do it and enjoy it either way, because we have been through a lot and taking the time as a family to do this is important to us. But being able to get FD would help us breathe much more easily and would give us a break from the penny pinching and planning of everyday life. To many of us, that is HUGE. I think some people forget that perspective when rolling their eyes at those of us obsessing over FD.

I used a TA last year and she ended up not being able to obtain the free dining for me; luckily I went online and secured another reservation which I then transferred over to her, in all other respects she was exceedingly helpful and I'm sure it wasn't her fault the phone lines were jammed; however had I not obtained the free dining it would have been very expensive for our family of 5; not everyone can afford to take a Disney vacation without FD; it helped us out tremendously

 

[squirrel]

I think it is interesting that Disney is letting people 'stack' the Canadian ticket offer with room discounts. Anyone have any luck stacking the Canadian ticket offer with the limited free dining offer a few months ago or any luck stacking it with a free dining bounceback offer?

I asked the same a few days ago. I'm going to check with my TA since I booked with her.

 

[talulabelle]

Hi, first time back to DIS in about 5 years, (I used to be a regular here) and haven't been to Disney in 6 years because I just have not been able to afford it. Just starting to try to get a trip planned for fall hopefully for family of 7. Only 3 of us are still children, my 2 oldest are over 18. Sorry to be an annoying newbie here, but any word on free dining dates yet? Speculation? Not sure I will be able to afford to stay on property but if there is any way I can swing it, I was hoping to do free dining. Any advice? Ive never done dining plan before..where should I be lurking? Do the values offer it still? Where should I go to learn about the current dining plan -I used to be a Disney expert, but EVERTHING has changed so much in 5 years, I don't know where to start. TIA for any advice!

 

[JackieO]

(Again, sorry)

I've always wanted to be able to watch the band and all the fun that seems to be happening in Biergarten. I can barely get my family to go near it though. They don't even like the smell, no way I could get them to eat there. Is there any way I could go in, get a soda and watch the band for a bit?

 

[JackieO]

Hi, first time back to DIS in about 5 years, (I used to be a regular here) and haven't been to Disney in 6 years because I just have not been able to afford it. Just starting to try to get a trip planned for fall hopefully for family of 7. Only 3 of us are still children, my 2 oldest are over 18. Sorry to be an annoying newbie here, but any word on free dining dates yet? Speculation? Not sure I will be able to afford to stay on property but if there is any way I can swing it, I was hoping to do free dining. Any advice? Ive never done dining plan before..where should I be lurking? Do the values offer it still? Where should I go to learn about the current dining plan -I used to be a Disney expert, but EVERTHING has changed so much in 5 years, I don't know where to start. TIA for any advice!

Welcome back, you've come to the right place. We haven't heard dates yet, but this is where we'll hear it first

Here's where you can learn about the dining plan. https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/planning-guides/in-depth-advice/disney-dining-plan/

Edit: thought I'd add a little info. Free Dining is a promotion that Disney has been offering for a number of years, mostly for Fall dates and typically coming out late April/early May. We won't know details about this year's offer until it actually comes out, but in the past they've offered quick dining at value resorts and table service at moderate and deluxe resorts. The rooms types, resorts, and dates vary from year to year and these are all the details we're gathered here to find out.

 

[BuckeyeBama]

Oh and to those who roll their eyes. None of this is necessary. No one will die without a vacation. No one needs to go to Disney world. But the wet blankets to our fun and excitement are akin to someone walking into the superbowl and saying what are people making a fuss over, worry about real life, no one will care who won in 5 years. Yep. No one will care. But as long as there are happy diversions from death, bills, and taxes people will participate in them. It's the whole point of living.

It was fun while the thread stayed happy. We got about a month which is longer than most.

I have not seen a single poster "roll their eyes" in this thread - until now, because I am rolling my eyes at this "drama".

 

[prettypatchesmsu]

Kinda MY TA just told me something I did not know. Disney takes a hold of 3 days without a $200 deposit? Is this true? She said I could do it online if a deal comes out and I want to grab a 3-day hold. This ensures I don't lose the deal until she and I can talk. Anyone else done this 3-day hold thing and if so online?

Hmm, I have never heard of anyone but a TA being able to do the hold thing. I don't think a regular customer can, but I could totally be wrong. What you can do, is book it yourself then transfer the reservation to your TA. People do that a lot. Of course, if you book yourself and end up not wanting it then you can just get refunded your deposit pretty easily from Disney. Hope that helps.

 

[pigletto]

So a new off topic question to pass the time..

What would everyone say are there top three dining reservations for your upcoming trip ?

We always do Ohana .. We all like the food but I think I just enjoy the atmosphere the most. It's just one of those meals that scream "You're at Disney!" to me.
I'm looking forward to trying Homecomin' , as it's new and I love to try a few new places per trip.
And DH and I always do a date night, and we have Artist Point booked right now, though I am thinking of swapping for another signature. We've done Jiko twice and it's our favourite, but there are so many other good choices! I'm torn on this one!