Some big changes are on the way for Disney’s Magic Kingdom theme park.
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Disney World has recently introduced new rules that specifically affect loyal Annual Passholders. Starting July 20, 2025, these passholders will face a significant change regarding park reservations. These new limitations, which seek to streamline guest access, especially at the popular Magic Kingdom park, temper the excitement surrounding the park’s upcoming attractions.
Under the new policy, Annual Passholders will be required to secure a theme park reservation for Magic Kingdom throughout the entire day, even after the clock strikes 2 p.m. This change contrasts with the previous policy that allowed passholders to visit the park without a reservation after 2 p.m., making it easier for them to enjoy spontaneous visits. While they will still be able to access EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom without a reservation after 2 p.m., the continued requirement for Magic Kingdom has raised some eyebrows.
Previously, there were select “Good-to-Go” days when passholders could visit Magic Kingdom without a reservation. Saturdays and Sundays were typically excluded from this arrangement. With the new system taking effect, all visitors will need to plan ahead and book their visits to Magic Kingdom, which can affect how passholders choose to spend their time at Disney World.
The most significant adjustment involves the mandatory reservation requirement for Magic Kingdom, which is now applicable after 2 p.m. Previously, this flexibility allowed for a more laid-back approach, enabling passholders to decide on a whim to head to the park later in the day. As the new policy takes hold, passholders will have to pre-plan their visits, bringing a structured element to their park trips.
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This change can affect how Annual Passholders experience their days at Magic Kingdom. Spontaneity will take a backseat as they must now consider reservation availability and plan their trips accordingly. It may limit the ability to indulge in last-minute ventures to the park, replacing leisurely jaunts with a more systematic approach that relies on prior planning.
In contrast to Magic Kingdom, the other three parks within Disney World—EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom—will allow passholders to enter after 2 p.m. without any reservation requirements. This discrepancy means that passholders who might lean toward flexibility may find it more appealing to visit these three parks rather than Magic Kingdom, potentially redistributing crowds in the resort.
These new restrictions could have a profound impact on the overall experience for Annual Passholders. Gone are the days when passholders could easily enjoy a quick visit to Magic Kingdom without worrying about availability. The increase in planning and reservation adherence may lead to increased stress among passholders, shifting some of the joy that spontaneity had offered.
Amidst the adjustments, there’s plenty of thrilling news on the horizon. Disney’s much-anticipated parade, the Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away Parade, will debut on July 20, 2025, coinciding with the new rules. This marks the return of a year-round nighttime parade at Magic Kingdom, and excitement is building in anticipation of its arrival, coupled with the new reservation regulations.
