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It may have faced significant backlash from Disney fans, but the Lightning Lane Premier Pass at Walt Disney World Resort continues to sell out for key dates, with even more added to that list for next week.
What is the Lightning Lane Premier Pass?
The Lightning Lane Premier Pass, first introduced in October, offers an upgraded experience compared to the standard Lightning Lane, allowing guests to skip lines at select attractions and enjoy quicker access to rides without worrying about time slots.
Credit: Disney
It functions similarly to Universal’s Express Pass, granting one-time entry to all available Lightning Lane attractions within the park. Guests can experience their favorite rides with greater flexibility and without the hassle of adhering to arrival windows. The pass also includes digital downloads of select photos and videos from attractions, enabling guests to preserve memories of their day at the park.
Pricing and Backlash
The primary source of controversy surrounding the pass is its high price tag, which many Disney fans consider exorbitant. The cost of the Lightning Lane Premier Pass varies depending on the park and time of year but typically ranges from $129 to $449, with Magic Kingdom being one of the most expensive. Despite the criticism, the pass has proven popular, with multiple dates already selling out well in advance.
Credit: Amy Humphries, Unsplash
As of November 23, 2024, more dates and parks have sold out for the upcoming Thanksgiving week. For example, the Lightning Lane Premier Pass for Magic Kingdom is no longer available for November 23, 25, 26, 27, and 28. Additionally, Disney’s Hollywood Studios has now also sold out for November 25 and 28.
With the busy holiday season approaching, it’s expected that availability will continue to diminish, especially given the combination of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and school breaks that bring large crowds to Disney parks.
Expanding Access to the Premier Pass
In a move to accommodate more guests, Disney yesterday expanded the pool of guests eligible to purchase the Lightning Lane Premier Pass. Previously, the pass was exclusive to those staying at Disney’s Deluxe resorts, but now guests at all Disney hotel levels can purchase the pass.
Credit: Disney
This means that visitors staying at all hotels – from the pricey Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa to one of the more budget-friendly All-Star Hotels – can now access this premium perk. Guests can buy the pass up to seven days before their arrival and use it for up to 14 days during their stay.
The rules differ slightly for Disneyland Resort in California. Guests staying at Disney properties can purchase the Lightning Lane Premier Pass up to two days before their park reservation, and it can be used for either park. The price for the pass is set at $400 per person per day through the end of 2024. Starting January 1, 2025, the cost will fluctuate between $300 and $400, depending on the date.
Will You Buy the Lightning Lane Premier Pass?
As availability for the Lightning Lane Premier Pass continues to shrink and more dates sell out, Disney fans face increasing pressure to make a decision quickly. With peak periods like Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, securing a pass may be more challenging than ever before. If you’re planning a trip to Disney World or Disneyland and considering purchasing the Lightning Lane Premier Pass, it’s wise to act fast as spots continue to fill up.
Will you be purchasing a Lightning Lane Premier Pass for your next Disney adventure?
