Disney Prohibits Eligibility Access to 100,000+ Guests, Sales Ultimately Refused

Walt Disney World’s new Lightning Lane Premier Pass is making headlines for all the right reasons. Launched on October 30, this premium line-skipping option has already reached a significant milestone by selling out multiple dates during the busy Thanksgiving holiday season. The service, which allows guests to bypass standby lines at every Lightning Lane attraction in a single park for a full day, is rapidly becoming a must-have upgrade for Disney fans seeking a seamless park experience.

Credit: Lee Bailey / Flickr

A New Era in Line-Skipping

The Lightning Lane Premier Pass represents the pinnacle of Disney World’s line-skipping services, designed to eliminate the stress of long waits during peak crowd periods. While Disney’s Lightning Lane Multi-Pass (LLMP) and Single Pass (LLSP) remain available, the Premier Pass simplifies the process by providing unlimited, one-time access to every Lightning Lane attraction in a chosen park without requiring individual ride reservations.

This streamlined approach is ideal for visitors who value flexibility and convenience, especially during high-traffic times like Thanksgiving week. Whether you’re aiming to conquer Magic Kingdom’s TRON Lightcycle / Run or Hollywood Studios’ Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, the Premier Pass ensures you’ll spend more time enjoying the magic and less time waiting in line.

Thanksgiving Week: New Sell-Out Dates Confirmed

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As Disney World gears up for its busiest season, the Lightning Lane Premier Pass has proven to be in exceptionally high demand. Several dates during Thanksgiving week are already sold out, with new additions recently confirmed:

• Magic Kingdom: November 29
• Hollywood Studios: November 26 and 27

These dates join a growing list of sell-outs for the holiday week:

• Magic Kingdom: November 25, 26, 27, 28, 29
• EPCOT: November 25
• Hollywood Studios: November 25, 26, 27, 28
• Animal Kingdom: November 25

The sell-outs reflect the Premier Pass’s popularity among holiday travelers looking to make the most of their Disney World experience.

Pricing: What Does It Cost?

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The Lightning Lane Premier Pass comes with a premium price tag, which varies based on the park and the date of your visit. Here’s the pricing breakdown:

• Disney’s Animal Kingdom: $129–$199 per person, plus tax
• EPCOT: $169–$249 per person, plus tax
• Hollywood Studios: $269–$349 per person, plus tax
• Magic Kingdom: $329–$449 per person, plus tax

The cost is steep, particularly during peak seasons when prices at Magic Kingdom can hit $449 per person. However, for those visiting during crowded weeks, the time saved on waiting in line can make this service well worth the investment.

Expanded Access: Who Can Buy the Premier Pass?

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Initially limited to guests staying at Disney’s Deluxe Resorts, the Premier Pass has recently become available to a much wider audience. Guests staying at all Disney-owned hotels, as well as select third-party properties, can now purchase the pass. Eligible accommodations include:

Disney Resorts:

• Value Resorts: All-Star Movies, Music, and Sports; Pop Century; Art of Animation
• Moderate Resorts: Port Orleans (French Quarter and Riverside), Coronado Springs, Caribbean Beach
• Deluxe Resorts: Grand Floridian, Polynesian Village, Beach Club, Yacht Club, Wilderness Lodge, and more

Disney Vacation Club Resorts:

• Old Key West
• Saratoga Springs
• Riviera Resort
• Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
• Copper Creek Villas & Cabins

Third-Party Hotels:

• Swan and Dolphin Resorts
• Swan Reserve
• Shades of Green

This expansion means that more Disney guests than ever can enjoy the convenience of the Premier Pass during their stay.

Why Is the Premier Pass So Popular?

The Lightning Lane Premier Pass is particularly appealing for guests visiting Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios, home to iconic attractions that consistently draw the longest lines. From thrill rides like TRON Lightcycle / Run and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance to family favorites like Peter Pan’s Flight, these parks offer experiences that guests often consider must-do.

Beyond its ability to bypass lines, the Premier Pass’s flexibility is another major draw. Unlike other Lightning Lane options, there’s no need to plan out arrival windows or prioritize specific attractions. This makes it a perfect fit for families, groups, or anyone looking to enjoy the parks without the stress of micromanaging their itinerary.

Tips for Securing the Premier Pass

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With sell-outs becoming more frequent, here’s how to increase your chances of snagging a Premier Pass for your next visit:

1. Plan Ahead: Eligible guests can purchase the pass up to seven days before the first day of their resort stay. Booking early is key, especially during high-demand periods like Thanksgiving and Christmas.
2. Stay Flexible: Use the My Disney Experience app to monitor availability and adjust your plans accordingly.
3. Have a Backup Plan: If the Premier Pass is unavailable, consider the Lightning Lane Multi-Pass or Single Pass options, which may still be open for your dates.

The Holiday Forecast: What’s Next?

With Thanksgiving week sell-outs already stacking up, demand for the Premier Pass is expected to remain high through the December holiday season. As crowds swell during Christmas and New Year’s, securing a Premier Pass early could make all the difference in your Disney World experience.

For guests visiting during these busy weeks, the Premier Pass is a game-changing option, offering unparalleled convenience and a chance to enjoy Disney World to the fullest without the stress of long waits. Whether you’re a seasoned Disney veteran or planning your first trip, this new offering is reshaping how guests experience the parks.

Will you be trying out the Lightning Lane Premier Pass? Be sure to plan ahead and stay informed as Disney continues to refine and expand its offerings. This holiday season, it just might be the secret to a perfect park day!