FD - We've got your dates RIGHT HERE (here's my guesstimate dates - they were close)

[enchantingodin]

Dates for the past 3 years of FD are:
Sun 8/24 - Sat 9/20, 2008 (4 weeks)
Sun 8/26 - Sat 9/22, 2007 (4 weeks)
Sun 8/13 - Sat 9/30, 2006 (6 weeks)

If they do like they have the past 2 years (were it was a month long promo) then the dates will be Sun 8/23 - Sat 9/19. :idea:

However if they do a 6 week promo this year (which is likely since the economy is what it is), and they add a week before and after the normal month span like in 2006. Then the dates would then be Sun 8/16 - Sat 9/26. Of course 8/15 is also when 4/3 ends - coincidence? :scratchin

Or - I could just be totally wrong with all of this research and pondering. We'll have to wait and see... popcorn::

ETA: As posted over on the FD watch page there is now a rumor out. FINALLY! Found here: http://www.disunplugged.com/
"We’re hearing pretty reliable rumors that Walt Disney World’s next promotion will be free dining for travel between August 15 - September 30, 2009. If reports are correct, these will be available for booking starting on March 30th. Again this is RUMOR, so don’t bet the mortgage on this, but we’re comfortable enough with our information to put it out there."

Now, personally these dates seem a little off from years past. Again FD has always started on a Sun and ended on a Sat in the past. So I'd guess it'll start 8/16 and end either 9/26 (like I've already guessed) or end on 10/3. But since that would make it bigger that the PIN and BB promos I doubt it. The only reason I could see it ended on a Wed (9/30) is if they already have another big 4/3 type promo in the works.

Just my thoughts. Discuss. :thumbsup2

ETA-2:
I was told that I could share this by my travel agent...not sure if she meant on a public forum but....I also assume this includes Americans through AAA
BOOKING DATES March 30 - June 21, 2009
TRAVEL DATES August 16 - October 3, 2009
PROMO OVERVIEW
Disney Spring Offer Magic Your Way Package plus FREE Dining for Canadian Residents.
. Guests must purchase a minimum three (3) night stay at a Select Walt
Disney World Hotels in combination with a Magic Your Way Ticket.
. Guests may also upgrade to the Deluxe Dining Plan at a discounted rate, or
add the Wine & Dine Add-On at regular rates.
. The Disney Dining Plan includes one (1) Table Service Meal, one (1) Quick
Service meal, and one (1) Snack per Guest per night at participating Disney
Resort hotel and Theme Park locations.

Walt Disney World AAA Vacations Member Benefits:
Don't forget that the exclusive AAA member benefits are also combinable with
the this offer:
. AAA Vacations® Diamond Card
o Provides special savings and values at participating locations throughout
the Walt Disney World Resort.
. Disney's Story Time experience
o An exclusive story telling experience with a character from a classic
Disney animated feature (advance reservations, reservations voucher
and valid Theme Park admission required; seating is limited and subject
to availability; operates on select days of the week and certain block-out
dates apply).
. AAA Diamond Parking
o Convenient preferred parking spaces at all four Walt Disney World
Theme subject to availability

WOW!!! An offical LEAK!!! :yay::yay::yay:
Thanks justadisneygirl for posting this info!!!

ETA - 3:
Looks like these dates are pretty official. Touring Plans also has them up. :woohoo:

http://www.touringplans.com/tp2/UG2_index.php?PageID=44

ETA - 4: (sheesh!)
Again another good conformation. Mouse Savers has also posted the same dates. :cloud9:

http://www.mousesavers.com/ (look in the top right corner uner "LATEST NEWS & HOT DEALS" - you may have trouble veiwing in the AOL browser.)

[maddiesmom0116]

I hope your right. I am going starting the 26th on a 30% off bounceback and I am hoping for lighter crowds. The parks are much busier with free dining. I did the math and and my 30% deal was $20 better than free dining, so oddly enough I am hoping it doesn't include my dates. Thanks for posting your research, it gives me some hope.

[n2mm]

I agree with your start date of 8/23, but believe the end date will be September 25th or October 3rd.

I also believe the booking date for Visa cardholders will be April 5th and the GP will be April 8th.

[bell.of.the.ball]

One year it was April 1st was the Disney Visa cardholders. Everyone thought it was a joke but it wasnt

[zuzu310]

My 2 cents...I think it will be released for Disney Visa card members the first Monday of April which is 4/6 and then to the GP 4/9. I am so anxious to get this thing booked. I wish it would hurry up already. Also, I wonder why no rumors regarding a release date have broken by now. It makes me nervous!

[Donnainnj]

I'm hoping they start the release earlier this year, Maybe
March 30th, considering Easter week and Passover is right in there for what would be the expected release dates. (April 6th) Also with the 7 for 4 offer due to expire on March 29th, that would be a good day. As long as they offer it!:goodvibes
Donna

[familyS]

It is fun to guess :goodvibes

Maybe they'll instutute a different incentive, if attendance is down.

[goofygirl0415]

SO I am a Disney Visa card member. Does that mean when I book on the phone, I just tell them that and I will get the free dining?

[kirbygump]

OP - Isn't the 4/3 deal ending 8/15 not 9/15?

[PrincessTiffany]

SO I am a Disney Visa card member. Does that mean when I book on the phone, I just tell them that and I will get the free dining?
You have to put a minimum $200.00 deposit down with your Disney Visa.

[HLAuburn]

How much notice do Visa cardholders usually have before the day booking starts? :confused3

[jcemom]

OP - Isn't the 4/3 deal ending 8/15 not 9/15?Yes.

OP, thanks for doing the research and posting all the previous dates for us. I hope they do extend it this year. I was originally planning to go in October, but free dining would save us money. Even with a 30% room discount we'd save money. I was hoping for one of the 40% off pins but I haven't received one yet. That would be better for us than free dining.

So I'm keeping my eye on September and the free dining deal. If it's released, or when it's released, I'm going to book it. We can go on September 15, but I'd rather go later in the month, the 22nd, or even the 29th.

[MariaEllerºoº]

If they go along with the dates of the Pin Mailer my daughter received then the dates will be August 16th through October 1st. :)

[PrincessTiffany]

If they go along with the dates of the Pin Mailer my daughter received then the dates will be August 16th through October 1st. :)
The bounceback dates for this year's free dining were August 23 - October 6. The free dining pin codes that have come out last month were for August 16 - October 1. The general public free dining booking dates should have a smaller window than the bounceback or the pin code. So, my educated guess would be that the Free Dining dates that they should release in April for the general public will be for bookings between August 23 and October 1. That's just my guess though.

[enchantingodin]

The bounceback dates for this year's free dining were August 23 - October 6. The free dining pin codes that have come out last month were for August 16 - October 1. The general public free dining booking dates should have a smaller window than the bounceback or the pin code. So, my educated guess would be that the Free Dining dates that they should release in April for the general public will be for bookings between August 23 and October 1. That's just my guess though.

See I'm not so sure - in the past the promo has always ended on a Sat. 10/1 is a Thur and 10/6 is a Tue. I could see them ending it say on 9/26... maybe?

[fupresti]

Any chance free dining gets extended into October during the F&W festival?

[enchantingodin]

Any chance free dining gets extended into October during the F&W festival?

F&WF starts Sept 25th. Which is why my best guess is that it will be a month long promo again this year. But I could be (and hoping to be) wrong on that one. As I think the later in the year it gets the more Disney is going to hurt for people to come in.

[NYY2SMP]

I hope they offer it right after 4/3

[kevgraub]

See I'm not so sure - in the past the promo has always ended on a Sat. 10/1 is a Thur and 10/6 is a Tue. I could see them ending it say on 9/26... maybe?

In the past, have you been able to do the free dining as long as you were checked in by the date it ended. Our trip is planned for 9/25 through 10/2. If it were to end on 9/26, would we likely be able to do the free dining for our entire trip - based on how it worked in the past anyway?

[jcemom]

In the past, have you been able to do the free dining as long as you were checked in by the date it ended. Our trip is planned for 9/25 through 10/2. If it were to end on 9/26, would we likely be able to do the free dining for our entire trip - based on how it worked in the past anyway?We didn't do free dining last year, but that's how it worked the two previous years. As long as you checked in by the last day you got it for your entire stay.

[enchantingodin]

Yes! FD ended on the 20th last year - we checked in on the 19th. :thumbsup2

[mommyof3grlz]

I am anxiously waiting as well!:banana:

[orangecats2]

My question is - How will we know when it does come out? Where would I go to see if it is offered?

[MariaEllerºoº]

orangecats...just stay tuned to this site, mousesavers as well as Disney's own website! :) In previous years it was announced the first part of April.

[Cupmom]

My 2 cents...I think it will be released for Disney Visa card members the first Monday of April which is 4/6 and then to the GP 4/9. I am so anxious to get this thing booked. I wish it would hurry up already. Also, I wonder why no rumors regarding a release date have broken by now. It makes me nervous!

I agree it making me nervous too. Back in 2007 we already had leaks from people who saw adds or early travel agent reports.

[RMAMom]

I am hoping they keep rule of checking in before the last day you get it for the length of your stay! We are arriving on Sept 25th for 10 days. If free dining ends on the 26th we would qualify!

We are planning on using the 40% off for Military but free dining would save me so much more!

[enchantingodin]

I am hoping they keep rule of checking in before the last day you get it for the length of your stay! We are arriving on Sept 25th for 10 days. If free dining ends on the 26th we would qualify!

We are planning on using the 40% off for Military but free dining would save me so much more!

I don't see them changing this. When you book the dining plan normally you have to book it for your entire stay. So it stands to reason that they will contiune to do the same with free dining.

[disjest8]

We currently have the Military 40% off rate and will be using the Military ticket special. I'm not sure that free dining would provide a better savings since you have to buy a 1 day park ticket to qualify. We are a family of 4; 2 adults & 2 kids under 8 and we are staying at Pop Century for 6 nights. Has anyone done the math?

[DWFan4Life]

How I wish that we could go on that dates but DH decided to celebrated DS birthday and we are going on December. I can't wait til that day comes. :lmao:

[Goddessrobin]

I have a question about how the free dining works. My family has tickets from last May with 8 no expiration, park hopper days left on them. We stayed on property last May for the 1st time and loved it! We usually go to Disney every Sept., but don't usually stay on property. If I booked a week long package when free dining was offered, but only got 1 day park tickets (since I have 8 days already), would I get free dining based on the number of days I was staying or based on the number of days tickets I purchase with the package? For those of you who are familiar with the free dining program, this question might sound so stupid, but I have honestly been wondering this for quite a while!

[karentan]

i think you just need to buy a one day base ticket to get the free dining.

[antmaril]

I have a question about how the free dining works. My family has tickets from last May with 8 no expiration, park hopper days left on them. We stayed on property last May for the 1st time and loved it! We usually go to Disney every Sept., but don't usually stay on property. If I booked a week long package when free dining was offered, but only got 1 day park tickets (since I have 8 days already), would I get free dining based on the number of days I was staying or based on the number of days tickets I purchase with the package? For those of you who are familiar with the free dining program, this question might sound so stupid, but I have honestly been wondering this for quite a while!

Free Dining is based on the number of nights you are staying. You only need to buy a one day base ticket for each person in your party to qualify for free dining.

[PrincessTiffany]

We currently have the Military 40% off rate and will be using the Military ticket special. I'm not sure that free dining would provide a better savings since you have to buy a 1 day park ticket to qualify. We are a family of 4; 2 adults & 2 kids under 8 and we are staying at Pop Century for 6 nights. Has anyone done the math?
Well, the DP would cost your family about $100.00 per day X 6 nights, would be a savings of about $600.00 off with the FD code.

[jcemom]

I have a question about how the free dining works. My family has tickets from last May with 8 no expiration, park hopper days left on them. We stayed on property last May for the 1st time and loved it! We usually go to Disney every Sept., but don't usually stay on property. If I booked a week long package when free dining was offered, but only got 1 day park tickets (since I have 8 days already), would I get free dining based on the number of days I was staying or based on the number of days tickets I purchase with the package? For those of you who are familiar with the free dining program, this question might sound so stupid, but I have honestly been wondering this for quite a while!Dining is based on the number of nights you stay. So if you stayed 7 nights with one day base tickets you'd get 7 nights worth of dining credits. The one day tickets never expire so you could save them for a future trip.

[4Jays]

I got a pin for free dining in Feb that had to be booked by Feb 26. :banana: The dates for the free dining with the pin were Aug 16 to Oct 1. I would imagine that these could be the dates that they will offer to the public for free dining.:)

[PrincessTiffany]

I got a pin for free dining in Feb that had to be booked by Feb 26. :banana: The dates for the free dining with the pin were Aug 16 to Oct 1. I would imagine that these could be the dates that they will offer to the public for free dining.:)
And the bounceback dates were for August 23 - October 6. Usually the general public dates have a smaller booking window than the pin codes or the bounceback dates.

[enchantingodin]

If I booked a week long package when free dining was offered, but only got 1 day park tickets (since I have 8 days already), would I get free dining based on the number of days I was staying or based on the number of days tickets I purchase with the package? For those of you who are familiar with the free dining program, this question might sound so stupid, but I have honestly been wondering this for quite a while!

It's not a stupid question. :goodvibes

You get the number of NIGHTS you stay as others have alreay said. So if you go for 7days/6nights you get 6TS, 6CS, and 6SC. Those credits can be used in any order. They are good from the time you check in until midnight of the day you check out.
popcorn::

[islandtimect]

Subscribing. We just booked flight for week of Aug 24.

[islandtimect]

So folks can use the 40% military discount and still get free dining?? Can DVC owners book with our 25% discount and get free dining?

[mickekmania]

Would it be possible Disney would offer free dining plus 7/4 or would Disney just run one promotion:confused3 :confused3 Thoughts:banana: :banana:

[PrincessTiffany]

Would it be possible Disney would offer free dining plus 7/4 or would Disney just run one promotion:confused3 :confused3 Thoughts:banana: :banana:
No. You must pick one discount or the other. Disney will not let you stack discounts.

[mickekmania]

Thanks for the quick repsonse and I apologize for not being a bit more clear. :banana: In your opinion would they run 2 promotions at the same time or just offer one. If just one, what are your thoughts:confused3

Thanks again:flower3:

[HLAuburn]

Thanks for the quick repsonse and I apologize for not being a bit more clear. :banana: In your opinion would they run 2 promotions at the same time or just offer one. If just one, what are your thoughts:confused3

Thanks again:flower3:

Not 2 "big" promotions at the same time, I don't think. They may have a package code running at the same time as a room-only or something like that, but not 2 package deals at the same time for the same dates.

[HLAuburn]

double post - sorry

[enchantingodin]

So folks can use the 40% military discount and still get free dining?? Can DVC owners book with our 25% discount and get free dining?

You can get one promo or another. Not both - sorry.

ALTHOUGH, I'm guessing, totally guessing that they might offer a gift card for certain dates of the FD promo. After all they did offer it during certain times of the 4/3. If bookings are down it makes sense to offer it during thier slowest weeks in Sept. Here's hoping!

[Pixiedust34]

Does anyone think that general public FD or Disney Visa FD might come earlier than 8/16 this year?

[5boyz]

Ok I keep reading about bounceback....what does that mean?:confused3

[Cupmom]

When you are staying at Disney at a certain time of year they give you a chance to book a vacation for the same time next year. They usually offer free diniing or another deal.

[5boyz]

oOh ok thanks you cupmom. Well I go in July so I am guessing there will be no bounceback for me.

[PrincessTiffany]

Does anyone think that general public FD or Disney Visa FD might come earlier than 8/16 this year?
No.

[wdwmom0f3]

Is there anyone else who thinks that they may extend it thru Oct?

I read on here that they offered Free Dining for the month of Oct last year, but I never saw that. Did anyone else see that?:confused3 That's one of those to good to be true things. :rotfl2:

[asmit4]

A gift card to go with FD, no matter how small would be AWESOME! I hope they do that! :)

[SEPTBABIES02]

I am hoping for FD so we can stay longer that the 6nights we originally planned. This is our first trip. Does anyone think they will offer FD beginning 8/16? I am keeping my fingers crossed

[jcemom]

I am hoping for FD so we can stay longer that the 6nights we originally planned. This is our first trip. Does anyone think they will offer FD beginning 8/16? I am keeping my fingers crossedI think 8/16 is a good guess. That's right in the ballpark of previous start times, and it's right after the 4/3 ends. It would make sense for free dining to start on that date. But I guess we won't know for certain until the deal is released. :goodvibes

[enchantingodin]

A gift card to go with FD, no matter how small would be AWESOME! I hope they do that! :)

Yes INDEED! Again this is just my personal speculation, but I think the FD pins that went out were a way to 'test the water'. Whatever weeks are the slowest in booking would make total sense for them to offer a GC for.

Plus I think the further into the year we get the more Disney will be hurting for people to come in. Most people aren't Disers. And most people don't go to Disney every year. So the ones that are there now probably planed well in advance. Meaning alrady paid for and/or promised to their family. So I don't think it's too far of a streach for them to offer a GC. But I'm not counting on it. :laughing:


Is there anyone else who thinks that they may extend it thru Oct?

I read on here that they offered Free Dining for the month of Oct last year, but I never saw that. Did anyone else see that?:confused3 That's one of those to good to be true things. :rotfl2:

They did NOT offer FD last year to the GP in October. I know they offered it in parts of Nov and Dec for Dvisa. But I don't think for October.

As to speculation on how long the promo will last this year is anyones guess. You already know what I think. Even though I personally hope they do extend it to October so I can go for my B-day when it will be cooler out. But I'm not holding my breathe either. :rotfl:

[jcemom]

I don't think they will extend it through October. If they do it may end on or about October 1-3. I think that's the latest they'd run it though, and even that I think is a bit of a long shot. I expect it will end around the end of September as the OP guessed.

[BillyFeat]

I am optimistic that free dining will be offered beginning August 16. I don't know the occupancy thus far at Disney Hotels this summer, but there are plenty of open flights on several airlines in July and August.

:goodvibes :goodvibes

[MomsOf2boys]

I agree with your start date of 8/23, but believe the end date will be September 25th or October 3rd.

I also believe the booking date for Visa cardholders will be April 5th and the GP will be April 8th.

Ohhhh and I will be at Disney then... what are the chances I will read my email? hmmm

[Nurse_Mommy4]

I am optimistic that free dining will be offered beginning August 16. I don't know the occupancy thus far at Disney Hotels this summer, but there are plenty of open flights on several airlines in July and August.

:goodvibes :goodvibes

I think it will depend on what the bookings look like for mid August. The window for GP FD is usually smaller then bounceback and UK. Disney also knows that if they offer a bigger window for GP there will be some bouncebackers wanting to rebook for an earlier date (thus lowering the occupancy level for late August). It's all alot of speculation right now; I hope it works out for all of us! :goodvibes

[kirbygump]

I have a question about the Bounceback window. Isn't this something that was offered last year during FD and way before anyone knew how far our economy was going to tank? I do think that somebody will be offered FD starting on 8/16 but don't know if it will be GP. WDW may offer it to a limited segment at the opening but could possibly readjust the dates based on bookings. Isn't this what happened with the 4/3 deal? Disney stock fell again today but I'm not sure what that was in response to. I'm very curious to see what they offer this year although I won't be able to visit I am planing for August of 2010 all things remaining well.

[Suzyq9241]

And this is what she said when I called to get a couple of quotes...

I can switch you when the free dining comes out between the 6th and 9th of April .... and instead of the 15th of August what about the 23rd of Aug? We would have no problem switching you for the Free Dining with no cost to you what so ever....


So these are my guesses...


What do you think?

[Cupmom]

Very interesting....This may be the first leak of information we have had so far. I guess I need to make back up plans incase it starts on the 23rd

[grace&philipsmom]

Arrgh......is anyone else going crazy waiting :crazy2: ?

[mom2two2]

I am optimistic that free dining will be offered beginning August 16. I don't know the occupancy thus far at Disney Hotels this summer, but there are plenty of open flights on several airlines in July and August.

:goodvibes :goodvibes

I seriously hope these guesses of Aug 16 are right on....LOL. We were not planning to go this year but will if we can snag FD on the week I am off work (which is Sat Aug 15-Sun Aug 23). I cannot switch weeks off at this point but could check in Aug 16....whooo hooo.....That would be sweet.

I know there is talk in the past that as long as you were checked in by the last date you could have FD your entire trip. What about on the other end? What if, say....FD started Aug 21 and we were there Aug 16-22 for example? :confused3

[princesspaige]

ALTHOUGH, I'm guessing, totally guessing that they might offer a gift card for certain dates of the FD promo. After all they did offer it during certain times of the 4/3. If bookings are down it makes sense to offer it during thier slowest weeks in Sept. Here's hoping!

Here's to hoping they offer a gift card the week of Labor Day...that is when I am going. :banana:

[jcemom]

I know there is talk in the past that as long as you were checked in by the last date you could have FD your entire trip. What about on the other end? What if, say....FD started Aug 21 and we were there Aug 16-22 for example? :confused3Unfortunately no, it hasn't worked in reverse in the past.

[zuzu310]

And this is what she said when I called to get a couple of quotes...

I can switch you when the free dining comes out between the 6th and 9th of April .... and instead of the 15th of August what about the 23rd of Aug? We would have no problem switching you for the Free Dining with no cost to you what so ever....


So these are my guesses...


What do you think?

I think this might be the first leak of info that we have heard so far...I was banking on the fact that it might be released 4/6 for Disney VIsa card members. My hubby took the morning off to call so I hope it is released then. :woohoo:

[Tink313]

I cant wait. I hope they give fd this year. Im dying to book my trip already. :worship: Im also hoping they give a 200 gift card with fd that would be great:thumbsup2

[MomsOf2boys]

I cant wait. I hope they give fd this year. Im dying to book my trip already. :worship: Im also hoping they give a 200 gift card with fd that would be great:thumbsup2

I had not heard that they sometimes give a gift card as well. That is very interesting.

[Cupmom]

They are offering gift cards now with 4/3 package for certain dates

[Minnie&Nana]

They are offering gift cards now with 4/3 package for certain dates

:wave: ...and certain resorts:

From the WDW Site:

When traveling between 4/27 - 5/18, 5/23 - 6/6, and 6/22 - 8/15/09 AND you stay at either Disney's Old Key West Resort or Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa, you'll receive a $100 Disney Gift Card.


:goodvibes :goodvibes :goodvibes

[Tink313]

Yup wouldnt it be great free dining and a 200 dollar gift card :banana: :dance3: :yay: Free food and money who could pass it up.

[black562]

Remember too they also had some free dining dates even into December last year....and with this economy, I'm betting they'll repeat that as well.

[islandtimect]

[QUOTE=Suzyq9241;30927929]
I can switch you when the free dining comes out between the 6th and 9th of April

Suzyq - Are the dates of between the 6th and 9th for general public or Disney Visa cardholders?

[Moomduck1]

This is so exciting! I will have to start doing the math to see whether free dining or a % discount works best.

[kimberlyWDW]

I love all this talk about free dining. I'm not scheduled to go in August, but I can always work on my hubby when free dining is involved! he does love a bargain.

[islandtimect]

Just came from the Disney expert at the Plainville, CT AAA. She said they have no info as to when free dining will be announced or its dates. I told her of the rumor from another AAA agent, so she called Disney and Disney said they don't have that info yet. FD started on Aug 27 last yr and because schools return later this yr, thinks that it won't start until late Aug again! :scared1: Labor Day isn't until Sep 7. If that's true, I sure hope a huge room only discount comes out cause we have airfare Aug 24-29.

[PrincessTiffany]

Just came from the Disney expert at the Plainville, CT AAA. She said they have no info as to when free dining will be announced or its dates. I told her of the rumor from another AAA agent, so she called Disney and Disney said they don't have that info yet. FD started on Aug 27 last yr and because schools return later this yr, thinks that it won't start until late Aug again! :scared1: Labor Day isn't until Sep 7. If that's true, I sure hope a huge room only discount comes out cause we have airfare Aug 24-29.
The Free Dining offer for the general public started on August 23 last year and the bounceback starts on August 24 and end October 6 for this year. The free dining pin codes for this year start on August 16 and ends on October 1. The pin code and bounceback dates usually have a smaller booking window than the general public offer, so August 23 - October 1 would be a good guess for this years dates.

[Suzyq9241]

I am not sure as to when and who....but she did say between April 6-9.... I am just reporting as to what she had told me....

[asmit4]

Well airtran has great deals for sept/october right now so I wish they would release the dates and let us figure out our travel plans. All these airfare sales are killing me!:headache: :scared: Until then I'm gonna sit and popcorn:::surfweb::surfweb::surfweb:

[MariaEllerºoº]

I have a feeling Disney will release Free Dining to Disney Visa Card holders on April 2nd and then to the General Public on April 9th.

[PrincessTiffany]

I have a feeling Disney will release Free Dining to Disney Visa Card holders on April 2nd and then to the General Public on April 9th.
Since 2005, Disney Visa holders have only gotten the promotion 3 days before the general public. I think people on here would totally freak out if it went to 7 days.

[enchantingodin]

HEY lookie there's a RUMOR OUT!!! :cool1:

I updated it on the front page! GO SEE!!!

[Cupmom]

Thank goodness..Finally a rumor I was starting to feel like FD was only in my dreams.:cool1:

[enchantingodin]

Thank goodness..Finally a rumor I was starting to feel like FD was only in my dreams.:cool1:

I couldn't agree more! :rotfl:

[Trip2Disney]

There is also new FD rumor news posted on Touringplans. It doesn't state the travel dates, but says that it will be available for booking to Disney Visa holders on March 26 and to the general public on March 30.

[Cupmom]

This is what is posted on the Touringplans website
RECENT NEWS Last updated 25 Mar 2009

Free dining to return late summer 2009
Our sources say that Disney will announce late summer free dining packages for Disney Visa cardholders on March 26, and to the general public on March 30. Travel dates are not yet set, but should be late August through late September. (Disney's current Buy-4-Get-7 deal ends August 15, so expect free dining to start a week or two after that.)
Posted 2009-03-25

[zuzu310]

Oh my gosh...I am sooooo excited! C'mon rumors be right. If they are I will be up early on 3/26! :cool1:

[jdd]

Oh my gosh...I am sooooo excited! C'mon rumors be right. If they are I will be up early on 3/26! :cool1:

Only two days!!! Wow, I thought we'd be waiting at least until April....

[sandgrace]

WOW! I hope that 3/26 is right for Disney Visa Cardholders! What time should I get up to book, I'm in PT?

[PrincessTiffany]

WOW! I hope that 3/26 is right for Disney Visa Cardholders! What time should I get up to book, I'm in PT?
4 a.m.

[sandgrace]

4 a.m.

:scared1:

[princesspaige]

pixiedust:pixiedust: Please Good Fairies...show us the FREE DINING!!!! pixiedust:pixiedust:

[disneyJMD]

ok--all this free dining stuff has me totally excited--we went last year for 12 days and upgraded to dxddp thanks to FD. Now I have to just figure out how to get my Disney visa back from my husband so I can actually book it when it is released--havent convinced him to book yet and I am not supposed to have any of my credit cards...wish me luck!

[justadisneygirl]

I was told that I could share this by my travel agent...not sure if she meant on a public forum but....I also assume this includes Americans through AAA
BOOKING DATES March 30 - June 21, 2009
TRAVEL DATES August 16 - October 3, 2009
PROMO OVERVIEW
Disney Spring Offer Magic Your Way Package plus FREE Dining for Canadian Residents.
. Guests must purchase a minimum three (3) night stay at a Select Walt
Disney World Hotels in combination with a Magic Your Way Ticket.
. Guests may also upgrade to the Deluxe Dining Plan at a discounted rate, or
add the Wine & Dine Add-On at regular rates.
. The Disney Dining Plan includes one (1) Table Service Meal, one (1) Quick
Service meal, and one (1) Snack per Guest per night at participating Disney
Resort hotel and Theme Park locations.

Walt Disney World AAA Vacations Member Benefits:
Don't forget that the exclusive AAA member benefits are also combinable with
the this offer:
. AAA Vacations® Diamond Card
o Provides special savings and values at participating locations throughout
the Walt Disney World Resort.
. Disney's Story Time experience
o An exclusive story telling experience with a character from a classic
Disney animated feature (advance reservations, reservations voucher
and valid Theme Park admission required; seating is limited and subject
to availability; operates on select days of the week and certain block-out
dates apply).
. AAA Diamond Parking
o Convenient preferred parking spaces at all four Walt Disney World
Theme subject to availability

[disyady]

I just posted on the Canadian board - I received an email from my local CAA travel agent today that we can book a Canadian Free Dining offer on March 30 for travel Aug 16-Oct 3. No other details were given. I would guess that something similar will be upcoming for all. :wizard:

Edited to add: Sorry - I just noticed the poster before me had all of the details!

[tinknme]

I know in the past you were able to start your trip on the last day that free dining was being offered & still be able to get it for your entire stay. Do they still do this?

I haven't been able to take advantage of free dining since 2006 :sad2:

[PrincessTiffany]

I know in the past you were able to start your trip on the last day that free dining was being offered & still be able to get it for your entire stay. Do they still do this?

I haven't been able to take advantage of free dining since 2006 :sad2:
Yes.

[tinknme]

Yes.

Thank you! I do hope this rumor is true, I would love to sneak another trip in this year with the boys!

Have some medical things going on with dh right now, but if all is ok maybe I can talk him into it.

[HLAuburn]

In the past with free dining packages, was there ever a discount on the room portion? Or was it rack rate + minimum 1 day passes and you get dining for everyone free?

Thanks!

[PrincessTiffany]

In the past with free dining packages, was there ever a discount on the room portion? Or was it rack rate + minimum 1 day passes and you get dining for everyone free?

Thanks!
There has never been a room discount in coordination with the Fall Free Dining Promo that comes out for the general public - you have always had to pay rack rate.

The FD Bounceback from last fall did give some people the option to book at Saratoga Spring with a 30% discount on the room along with the free dining discount. That's the only time I have seen an advertised discount on a resort room inconjunction with the free dining and that was not for the general public.

[HLAuburn]

Thanks...that's what I was afraid of. As much as I LOVE the idea of Free Dining (and we'd get to book early w/ the Disney Visa), it just doesn't seem to pay off for us. :sad2: We'd have to pay rack rate for WL, 1 day tickets for 3 of us, and the dining would only be worth about $100 a day for us.

The thought of free food is really tempting, but I think we're that in the small group of people who FD isn't a good deal for. :guilty:

[PrincessTiffany]

Thanks...that's what I was afraid of. As much as I LOVE the idea of Free Dining (and we'd get to book early w/ the Disney Visa), it just doesn't seem to pay off for us. :sad2: We'd have to pay rack rate for WL, 1 day tickets for 3 of us, and the dining would only be worth about $100 a day for us.

The thought of free food is really tempting, but I think we're that in the small group of people who FD isn't a good deal for. :guilty:
Sorry!

Free dining is the best discount we can get. We are a family of 6 and always get two connecting rooms at a value resort, so it saves us over $1,500.00. Eight nights on-site in Disney with our big family for $2,800.00. We can't hardly go to the beach for a week for that.

[mom2two2]

I was told that I could share this by my travel agent...not sure if she meant on a public forum but....I also assume this includes Americans through AAA
BOOKING DATES March 30 - June 21, 2009
TRAVEL DATES August 16 - October 3, 2009
PROMO OVERVIEW
Disney Spring Offer Magic Your Way Package plus FREE Dining for Canadian Residents.
. Guests must purchase a minimum three (3) night stay at a Select Walt
Disney World Hotels in combination with a Magic Your Way Ticket.
. Guests may also upgrade to the Deluxe Dining Plan at a discounted rate, or
add the Wine & Dine Add-On at regular rates.
. The Disney Dining Plan includes one (1) Table Service Meal, one (1) Quick
Service meal, and one (1) Snack per Guest per night at participating Disney
Resort hotel and Theme Park locations.

Walt Disney World AAA Vacations Member Benefits:
Don't forget that the exclusive AAA member benefits are also combinable with
the this offer:
. AAA Vacations® Diamond Card
o Provides special savings and values at participating locations throughout
the Walt Disney World Resort.
. Disney's Story Time experience
o An exclusive story telling experience with a character from a classic
Disney animated feature (advance reservations, reservations voucher
and valid Theme Park admission required; seating is limited and subject
to availability; operates on select days of the week and certain block-out
dates apply).
. AAA Diamond Parking
o Convenient preferred parking spaces at all four Walt Disney World
Theme subject to availability

So is this for real then? I can call March 30 as 7:00 and get FD for Aug 16th? I think I am going to pass out...LOL.
:goodvibes

[Pixieflip]

Oh, wow! Yeah for all of you, such a great deal!! :thumbsup2 It'll be at least a decade or more before all our kids' school schedules would allow travel on those dates. Have a little bit of fun for us!! :cheer2:

[enchantingodin]

I was told that I could share this by my travel agent...not sure if she meant on a public forum but....I also assume this includes Americans through AAA
BOOKING DATES March 30 - June 21, 2009
TRAVEL DATES August 16 - October 3, 2009
PROMO OVERVIEW
Disney Spring Offer Magic Your Way Package plus FREE Dining for Canadian Residents.
. Guests must purchase a minimum three (3) night stay at a Select Walt
Disney World Hotels in combination with a Magic Your Way Ticket.
. Guests may also upgrade to the Deluxe Dining Plan at a discounted rate, or
add the Wine & Dine Add-On at regular rates.
. The Disney Dining Plan includes one (1) Table Service Meal, one (1) Quick
Service meal, and one (1) Snack per Guest per night at participating Disney
Resort hotel and Theme Park locations.

Walt Disney World AAA Vacations Member Benefits:
Don't forget that the exclusive AAA member benefits are also combinable with
the this offer:
. AAA Vacations® Diamond Card
o Provides special savings and values at participating locations throughout
the Walt Disney World Resort.
. Disney's Story Time experience
o An exclusive story telling experience with a character from a classic
Disney animated feature (advance reservations, reservations voucher
and valid Theme Park admission required; seating is limited and subject
to availability; operates on select days of the week and certain block-out
dates apply).
. AAA Diamond Parking
o Convenient preferred parking spaces at all four Walt Disney World
Theme subject to availability

Thanks SO MUCH for posting this info! i knew we'd get a "real" leak soon. :woohoo:

I'm updating the main page with the info now! popcorn::

[pepper881]

Is this only for canada? Im so excited i have been waiting for this moment... so should i tell my travel agent about this and let her know i would prefer this over the 40% off code i recieved so on the 30th she can try to get me free dining or is that something they do automatically?? im with AAA:dance3:

[enchantingodin]

Is this only for canada? Im so excited i have been waiting for this moment... so should i tell my travel agent about this and let her know i would prefer this over the 40% off code i recieved so on the 30th she can try to get me free dining or is that something they do automatically?? im with AAA:dance3:

I would call my AAA agent (I personally don't have one) and let them know what you've heard to see if she can verify. Then tell her when it comes to please switch you over to FD. Some will automatically do it for you. But best to know for sure. :thumbsup2

YES this leak is form CAA, but I'm like 99% sure that the dates will be the same. Why wouldn't they be?!? :goodvibes

[enchantingodin]

Touring plans also has the same dates up! :woohoo:

http://www.touringplans.com/tp2/UG2_index.php?PageID=44

[sandgrace]

Is it worth using AAA to book your FD package when it's available? Do you get more than you would booking through Disney yourself? It looked like Canada AAA was offering diamond parking and a story time, does our AAA do the same? We don't have AAA right now, but my daughter does, maybe we should see if we can book our trip through her AAA membership.

[PrincessTiffany]

Is it worth using AAA to book your FD package when it's available? Do you get more than you would booking through Disney yourself? It looked like Canada AAA was offering diamond parking and a story time, does our AAA do the same? We don't have AAA right now, but my daughter does, maybe we should see if we can book our trip through her AAA membership.
No. You can't stack discounts. You have to pay full price for the room to get the Free Dining discount. I'd just call Disney reservations.

[enchantingodin]

Is it worth using AAA to book your FD package when it's available? Do you get more than you would booking through Disney yourself? It looked like Canada AAA was offering diamond parking and a story time, does our AAA do the same? We don't have AAA right now, but my daughter does, maybe we should see if we can book our trip through her AAA membership.

My Mom has AAA - and I know that they do the parking. This was the first I've heard of 'story time' though. But I will say that except for MK the AAA parking isn't that much closer than GP. So depending on what time you plan to get there in the morning will decide if it's beneficial or not.

I also booked my FD last year with a normal travel agent and got a free round of for mini-golf for one person and a $15 credit at Planet Hollywood. Not sure if they do this with AAA too... Or if those are things you'd even be interested in.

No. You can't stack discounts. You have to pay full price for the room to get the Free Dining discount. I'd just call Disney reservations.

I don't think she meant in a way to get her more discounts. But more over 'perks'. Like AAA parking, and I guess they do a 'story time' just for them. Kinda like how they do a character meet for only DV card holders over at Epcot. :goodvibes

[sandgrace]

My Mom has AAA - and I know that they do the parking. This was the first I've heard of 'story time' though. But I will say that except for MK the AAA parking isn't that much closer than GP. So depending on what time you plan to get there in the morning will decide if it's beneficial or not.

I also booked my FD last year with a normal travel agent and got a free round of for mini-golf for one person and a $15 credit at Planet Hollywood. Not sure if they do this with AAA too... Or if those are things you'd even be interested in.



I don't think she meant in a way to get her more discounts. But more over 'perks'. Like AAA parking, and I guess they do a 'story time' just for them. Kinda like how they do a character meet for only DV card holders over at Epcot. :goodvibes

Yup that's what I meant :goodvibes So the diamond parking using AAA really isn't that much of a perk? We're probably renting a car so parking could be an issue for us, and I'm not sure how early we'll get going in the mornings, with my family you never know......

[islandtimect]

AAA might be able to get 10% or 15% off the room price plus FD. I was just there and the quote from the agent was 10% less than WDW's website. You also get Story Time at MK, which they've been doing for a number of years and the Diamond card for shopping and restaurant discounts. So not a lot of perks, but maybe some room savings.

[enchantingodin]

Yup that's what I meant :goodvibes So the diamond parking using AAA really isn't that much of a perk? We're probably renting a car so parking could be an issue for us, and I'm not sure how early we'll get going in the mornings, with my family you never know......

Here's the difference - AAA parking is always the 'first lot'. So you can walk right up to the park entrance istead of taking a tram. If you go early like I do than this doesn't make much of a difference since we usually get the 'second lot' anyway. A whole 30 seconds - 2 minute of a walk difference depending on where you end up.

The only place it's a real saver is in the TAT (MK) parking lot. But really we're talking about 15 minutes at MOST of a difference. To some people that's "totally worth it" others don't care so much.

Now on the flip side being the end of the day. It depends on how you 'do the parks'. We are usually there from just after rope drop until closing. Non-stop camando - that's me. So being up front I don't normally have to fight witheverybody else to get onto the tram to get back to my car. However if you get there later in the day or do some parking hoping AAA might be worth it to you. Since you'll always have an up front spot. Again - it just depends on the family.

For me I know I want to get a family suit at ASMu - so I can't wait on a AAA agent to book. I've gotta be one of those crazies on the phone at 7am on Monday. :scared:

[sandgrace]

Here's the difference - AAA parking is always the 'first lot'. So you can walk right up to the park entrance istead of taking a tram. If you go early like I do than this doesn't make much of a difference since we usually get the 'second lot' anyway. A whole 30 seconds - 2 minute of a walk difference depending on where you end up.

The only place it's a real saver is in the TAT (MK) parking lot. But really we're talking about 15 minutes at MOST of a difference. To some people that's "totally worth it" others don't care so much.

Now on the flip side being the end of the day. It depends on how you 'do the parks'. We are usually there from just after rope drop until closing. Non-stop camando - that's me. So being up front I don't normally have to fight witheverybody else to get onto the tram to get back to my car. However if you get there later in the day or do some parking hoping AAA might be worth it to you. Since you'll always have an up front spot. Again - it just depends on the family.

For me I know I want to get a family suit at ASMu - so I can't wait on a AAA agent to book. I've gotta be one of those crazies on the phone at 7am on Monday. :scared:

Hmmmm, I wonder if I should book through Disney myself at 7am just so I know that I'll get a room at POP, then possibly I could transfer the reservation to AAA (wonder if that can even be done). That way I can get the diamond parking and other perks, it seems like the diamond parking may work well for us since we may not be able to get to the parks when they first open in the morning. Also, who knows how long we'll stay at night, just depends on how tired DD and I get.

[tipsytrtle]

ok so can someone clarify for me...

the FD should likely be offered 8/16/09-10/03/09 for the general public?
and if we have a check in date of 10/03/09, then we would be able to use FD for the duration of our package?? up to 14nights??

TIA

[jdd]

Anyone verify that the deal will be out for Disney Visa holders tomorrow??? I have to set my alarm ;)

[M2DD's]

Of course my check out date is August 15th:sad2: But my kids go back to school on the 18th. Last yr we were able to get a great AP room discount and payed for the dining plan and it was a comparable price than if we would have paid rack rate on the room (like you do with FD)

[Cupmom]

Anyone verify that the deal will be out for Disney Visa holders tomorrow??? I have to set my alarm ;)


All we have are rumors from some reliable sources.. Touringplans.com and Disunplugged.com. Disney has not released anything official.

[Cupmom]

When do you think Mary from Mousesavers will post something. When she does I'll feel better

[jcemom]

When do you think Mary from Mousesavers will post something. When she does I'll feel betterShe has a blurb up on the front page of the website. It mentions free dining coming soon.

[wirki]

I just got off the phone with Disney and they are tight lipped. He said they have no idea when it is coming out.:laughing:

I am interested in this whole story time thing with AAA. What is that??

[Cupmom]

I called today too and you are so right mums the word at CRO

[enchantingodin]

Hmmmm, I wonder if I should book through Disney myself at 7am just so I know that I'll get a room at POP, then possibly I could transfer the reservation to AAA (wonder if that can even be done). That way I can get the diamond parking and other perks, it seems like the diamond parking may work well for us since we may not be able to get to the parks when they first open in the morning. Also, who knows how long we'll stay at night, just depends on how tired DD and I get.

Honestly I don't know this answer. BUT unless you are VERY specific on the kind of room you want and dates you can go, then waiting until the afternoon to book shouldn't be a big deal. The more flexable you are the better. But in my case I know I have to go the dates I'm going and I REALLY want a Family Suit - so I'll be on hold for an hour or so on Monday morning. ;)

ok so can someone clarify for me...

the FD should likely be offered 8/16/09-10/03/09 for the general public?
and if we have a check in date of 10/03/09, then we would be able to use FD for the duration of our package?? up to 14nights??

TIA

YES! Assuming all these leaks are correct - and I'm 99% sure they are - the last day of FD is 10/3.

When do you think Mary from Mousesavers will post something. When she does I'll feel better

As of now she has posted it. :thumbsup2

[SEPTBABIES02]

Just got FD with Disney Visa and it starts on 8/16 the day we were planning on checking in. I am sure they will offer it to the public by Sunday or Monday!:banana:

[enchantingodin]

Just got FD with Disney Visa and it starts on 8/16 the day we were planning on checking in. I am sure they will offer it to the public by Sunday or Monday!:banana:

Man this is HARD! I wanna book already! :sad1:

[SEPTBABIES02]

Man this is HARD! I wanna book already! :sad1:

Hang in there a little bit longer. I was nervous that I would have to wait forever on the phone or my dates would be taken. Only waited 3-4 minutes and no problem on resort or dates.

[enchantingodin]

I worried we won't get the fam suits for our dates. I told my mom about FD a few days ago and she now wants to come with my family of 4. I like the idea of having a fridge/micro for in hotel breakfasts. And for having cold drinks in the room without dealing with ice and a cooler.

So I'll be on the phone super early on Monday. Here's hoping I get it! :goodvibes

[Jasmin1]

I worried we won't get the fam suits for our dates. I told my mom about FD a few days ago and she now wants to come with my family of 4. I like the idea of having a fridge/micro for in hotel breakfasts. And for having cold drinks in the room without dealing with ice and a cooler.

So I'll be on the phone super early on Monday. Here's hoping I get it! :goodvibes

Good luck!! I just changed my previous res. from fam suite at ASMu to CSR, so maybe this will help you. :thumbsup2

[enchantingodin]

Good luck!! I just changed my previous res. from fam suite at ASMu to CSR, so maybe this will help you. :thumbsup2

Thanks!