At WDW Now - Used GAD Fastpass for Epcot & DHS

[triplejoy]

Hello,

My family and I are at WDW now and we used the GAD fastpass for Epcot on Thursday and DHS yesterday. Here is the scoop.

Epcot - fastpass is good for 6 total fastpass exchanges, 3 from each group of attractions. The first group (Donald) is Test Track and Soarin', the second group (Daisy) is Mission Space, Living with the Land, Honey I Shrunk the Audience, and Maelstrom. Again, you can use any combination up to 3 immediate fastpass entrances to each group. So, you can use all three entrances for Soarin' and none for Test Track, or 2 for Soarin and 1 for Test Track, or whatever combination you want. Same for the next group.

DHS - fastpass is good for six total fastpass exchanges here, too, three in each group. The first group is Tower of Terror, RNR Coaster, and TSM. The second group is Star Tours, Voyage of the Little Mermaid, and Lights, Motor, Action Stunt Show.

Am heading to Magic Kingdom today but will not use a fastpass. Will try and find out what attractions are used for the fastpass, though, and will post tomorrow afternoon. Have to run out now but will be happy to answer questions Sunday night about the ticket exchange experience/process or any other fastpass questions. In addition to the 2 fastpass days, we received credit for 3 volunteer days for our kids. Will talk about that later, too.

Rick/triplejoy

[Rags]

Wow that sounds great!!! At DHS could you use all your GAD fastpasses for TSM as well??? Where do you redeem the voucher and how early does guest relations oepn?

Thanks for the report!!!!!!!

[Twoboysnmygirl]

Thanks for reporting! Sounds just like the birthday FPs last year as we suspected, good to know. :)

[msreneau]

yAY Thank you so much for posting. Did they give you one fast pass good for the six people, or did you each get your own fast pass?

[enn]

Thanks for the report!! I'd love to hear how early or late in the day you got your FPs, where you went to get them (a guest services window outside the park?), and what the wait time was like. I'd also be curious to find out whether it seemed like the same window you went to for your GAD FPs would also be able to handle GAD voucher exchanges for entry tickets and non-GAD ticket upgrades for members of the same party. Thanks again.

[freepixie]

Thanks for reporting back!!! :goodvibes

[SnowandMittens]

Thank you for posting! That sounds pretty amazing!

[doconeill]

Thanks for the information! So far it is pretty much exactly like the Birthday Fastpass as we know it so far...whether they will vary the number of not remains to be seen...

Time to start rewording the web page...

[druidcat]

Thanks for posting your experience!

[mombeth2008]

A few questions:
1 For GAD FPs earned by your kids - did you have to show a copy of their birth certificate (if so, was it a copy vs an official certified copy)?

2 I'm not familiar with the lingo - Did one GAD voucher get EACH member of your group a fast pass with 6 exchanges (3 from Donald, 3 from Daisy)?


Thanks!

Beth

[doconeill]

A few questions:
1 For GAD FPs earned by your kids - did you have to show a copy of their birth certificate (if so, was it a copy vs an official certified copy)?

2 I'm not familiar with the lingo - Did one GAD voucher get EACH member of your group a fast pass with 6 exchanges (3 from Donald, 3 from Daisy)?


Not the one who is there now, but:

1) I'll defer to Cheshire Figment on this, but I've just noticed that the language in the FAQ no longer says (if it ever did) "certified", just "a copy of a Birth Certificate is acceptable." CF's sticky thread says certified though.

2) Only one voucher is necessary to get up to 6 exchange cards, one for each member of your group. Each card is good for 6 (or whatever amount if it varies) FPs.

[MomPOM]

That's awesome!

[lenshanem]

So if my family of four each had a voucher we could basically get a fastpass good for six rides for each of us on four separate park days? Am I understanding this correctly?

[doconeill]

So if my family of four each had a voucher we could basically get a fastpass good for six rides for each of us on four separate park days? Am I understanding this correctly?

Yes, although the six could actually be variable. For the Birthday program, it varied from 2-4 per group (that is, 4-8 total).

[december]

I need to know about the birth certificates, as well. :)

[Lisha1979]

I feel like an Uber Goober. I just can't wrap my tired brain around this for some reason...

My DH and I signed up for GAD and will both be getting FP's. We will be taking our daughter with us, so a total of 3 people will be in our group.

We will be getting a total of 2 FP's which I planned to use at 2 different parks.
I'm just confused how many rides each person in our group can FP?
If we only use one GAD FP at MK, can each, DH, DD, and myself FP for 6 rides each?
Or do you only get to FP a total of 6 times per GAD pass?

[doconeill]

OK...so you have two GAD vouchers, and three people in your group (assuming your daughter is old enough to have a ticket).

Each voucher can be turned in individually, at the same park or different parks on the same day or different days, doesn't matter.

So you can take just one voucher, and if you already have a valid multi-day ticket, you can opt for the Fastpass Exchange card option.

If you choose that option, you will receive THREE Fastpass Exchange cards (one for each member of your group).

The attractions are split into two groups, the Donald (a.k.a. the "E-ticket" or most popular) and the Daisy (everything else) groups.

Each card will get you X Fastpasses from the Donald group, and X Fastpasses from the Daisy group, for a total of 2X Fastpasses. X as of today at Epcot and DHS at least was 3, but it may vary. So each card gets a total of 6 Fastpasses.

In total (and assuming X is still 3), for turning in ONE GAD voucher, you would get a total of 18 Fastpasses for that day to divide between the three of you.

You have TWO vouchers, so you can repeat this on another day at the same or a different park.

Hope this makes it clearer.

[Lisha1979]

Thank you thank you THANK YOU!!!! =) I totally understand it now! =)

[triplejoy]

Yesterday we went to the Magic Kingdom. Here are the rides for the fastpass at this park: a total of 3 fastpass tickets from each group is allowed.

Donald Group - Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Peter Pan's Flight, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

Daisy Group - Jungle Cruise, Mickey's Philhar Magic, Stitch's Great Escape, Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin.

To answer a couple of earlier questions. Each park has a "Will Call" window or group of windows. You have to redeem your vouchers (whether for the fastpass or the free day) at the Will Call Window. If you want to redeem a voucher for a free day, you have to go to the Will Call window and get a one-day pass for the person and enter the park with that pass. Once inside the park, you can then upgrade/exchange the one-day free pass for a multiple day pass and you get a credit for the value of one day ($79 plus tax). We redeemed the vouchers for my three kids (all 17) and then exchanged them for 3-day passes. The vouchers for my wife and I were exchanged for daily fastpasses. We bought our 3-day park pass at the Guest Relations window the first day and then went to the Will Call window to exchange our volunteer voucher for a daily fastpass on the day we were using that fastpass..

The kids just needed to show official ID...and they each had their driver's license. With the fastpasses, you get one separate card for each person in your party (six max) per voucher exchanged.

I will be at home tonight and will update more on our trip and GAD voucher exchange experience.

Rick / triplejoy

[Twoboysnmygirl]

Yesterday we went to the Magic Kingdom. Here are the rides for the fastpass at this park: a total of 3 fastpass tickets from each group is allowed.

Donald Group - Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Peter Pan's Flight, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

Daisy Group - Jungle Cruise, Mickey's Philhar Magic, Stitch's Great Escape, Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin.

To answer a couple of earlier questions. Each park has a "Will Call" window or group of windows. You have to redeem your vouchers (whether for the fastpass or the free day) at the Will Call Window. If you want to redeem a voucher for a free day, you have to go to the Will Call window and get a one-day pass for the person and enter the park with that pass. Once inside the park, you can then upgrade/exchange the one-day free pass for a multiple day pass and you get a credit for the value of one day ($79 plus tax). We redeemed the vouchers for my three kids (all 17) and then exchanged them for 3-day passes. The vouchers for my wife and I were exchanged for daily fastpasses. We bought our 3-day park pass at the Guest Relations window the first day and then went to the Will Call window to exchange our volunteer voucher for a daily fastpass on the day we were using that fastpass..

The kids just needed to show official ID...and they each had their driver's license. With the fastpasses, you get one separate card for each person in your party (six max) per voucher exchanged.

I will be at home tonight and will update more on our trip and GAD voucher exchange experience.

Rick / triplejoy

What about Splash Mountain??? Last year this was part of the Donald group for the birthday FPs, was it on there as well?

[msreneau]

I bet Splash wasn't included because it was closed. I'm sure they'll add it after it reopens from refurbishment.

[Twoboysnmygirl]

I bet Splash wasn't included because it was closed. I'm sure they'll add it after it reopens from refurbishment.

Oh I forgot it was under refurb right now! That makes more sense! :goodvibes

[Befferk]

Fantastic information, thank you!! I am so excited now. We just finished our 8 blankets last night for Project Linus so that the 4 of us can redeem for fastpass cards (one for each park, and there are 6 of us total).

[enn]

Thanks so much for all the information and for taking time to update us during your vacation!!

I have a really complicated question about the way the different ticket windows work, if any of the ticket experts out there can bear with me through all the plot twists.

I now understand that "Will-Call" is the place to go for either the "free day" or the "fastpass" GAD exchange. My question is whether the folks at the will call window could also upgrade a non-GAD ticket at the same time, or whether a different window would be required for that.

Here's why it matters: we'll be arriving midday on day 1 of a 2-day trip and would like to use our GAD voucher (we'll just have one) to get the fastpass option at Epcot on our arrival day. But, there's a chance the GAD fastpasses will be gone by the time we get there (which might be as late as 3 or 4 pm). If that were the case, we'd rather use the GAD for park entry for one of us that day. As of right now, we have package tickets for 1 day only. If we wanted to use the GAD fastpass option, an upgrade of those tickets to 2-day would be necessary before we'd qualify to get the GAD fastpass (since you must "already" have a valid multi-day pass). But if the fastpasses are all gone by the time we arrive, we'd rather just upgrade my husband's ticket to 2-day (he won't have a voucher) and use my GAD voucher for park entry on arrival day (saving my package ticket to use for entry on day 2). So, my question is whether there's a single window we could go to and sort all this out in one place and make decisions and upgrades on the spot as needed, or whether we'd need to commit in advance to the 2-day upgrade (at some separate window) in order to have a chance at a GAD fastpass. If we did that and the FPs were gone we could of course either donate the voucher or get a GAD FP the next day (though it wouldn't be as useful to us on the second day, given our plans).

Or, would another possibility be to get a CM at the resort to take our package tickets off our KTTW cards and upgrade one of them to 2-day but not the other one? (Is that even possible?) I understand from one of the stickies that the KTTW cards have names printed on them but if the tickets were taken off the cards, would it be possible to upgrade one of them to 2 days without indicating, prior to first use, which ticket was whose? If that were possible, we could treat the 2-day one as mine if FPs were available (so we'd qualify for the FP option) and as my husband's if they were not (leaving me free to use my GAD for entry). But I don't know enough about how the ticket systems work to know whether this would even be a possibility. Perhaps all tickets have to be tied to a specific person right from the outset?

I am following the thread about how late GAD FPs will be available and am aware of the birthday FP experience (no known cases of them running out), but we'll be there at one of the busiest times imaginable (spring break).

Thanks to anyone who has even made it through this message!

[tsa]

WOW:)
You got the full $79 dollar value on the multiday ticket!!!!!!!

That is sooo exciting. Thank you soooooooo much for the info :worship:
Now if only Sept would hurry up and get here.

[Cheshire Figment]

One your KTTW is issued the tickets may be individually upgraded; it is only before the tickets are actually issed that everyone on the reservation must have the same entitlements.

To get one of the options other than the free ticket you must have a valid multi-day pass in hand to show at the will-call window. For more than one person to get the alternate item each must have a valid multi-day ticket.

If you do get the free ticket it is valid that day only. If it is not used that day it is void and will not be replaced and cannot be used for anything. Once the ticket is used you will have up to 14 days, including that day, to do any upgrade.

And an upgrade is taking one ticket, adding cash (or something similar) and ending up with one ticket with additional days and/or options.

[stephv3]

Thanks for all the info everyone! Just a question. We will be heading down in the fall with a family of 4 my DD (4) is to young to volunteer for GAD so we will only have 3 vouchers. Do you guys think it is better to use the vouchers for $79 off our 5 day ticket or for the Fast Passes? Just looking for opinions.

[enn]

From Cheshire Figment: To get one of the options other than the free ticket you must have a valid multi-day pass in hand to show at the will-call window.

Thanks!! Just to be sure I understand: when you say that I must have the multi-day ticket "in hand" at will call to get the FP, you mean it is impossible for me to first upgrade my one-day ticket to a multi-day ticket at that same will-call window and then use it to obtain the GAD FP? In other words, there is no single window I could go to with my one-day ticket that could both perform the upgrade to multi-day on that ticket and issue a GAD FP based on the new (now multi-day) ticket? Thanks again.

[Psychodisney]

Triplejoy,
Thanks for all the great info. What time did you exchange for FP option at DHS and Epcot?

[DisMomAmy]

Thanks so much for the information! We will be using our vouchers for park entry then upgrading to 6 day park hoppers (2 adults & 2 kids). I'm glad to hear it went smoothly for your kids. So it sounds like we have to go to will call first to exchange our vouchers for one day park tickets. Then we enter the park and go to Guest Relations to upgrade? All of the parks have Guest Relations windows outside of the turnstiles as well as inside the parks. Can we go to the Guest Relations window outside the park or do we have to go into the park first before they will allow us to upgrade?

Just want to plan how much time it will take us our first morning.

Thanks!!

[triplejoy]

We exchanged our vouchers for fastpass options early each morning at DHS and Epcot. We were at the will-call window around 8:30/8:45 each day.

Another note. Even when regular fastpass tickets are no longer available to the general public, the immediate special fastpass can be used. There is one fastpass machine left open for this use. I think this was reported earlier, but just wanted to say it again.

Combined with regular fastpass use, having the special GAD fastpass really made it an exciting visit to WDW. Of course, getting credit for $84.14 per ticket for the GAD voucher is also nice. Either way you go is a positive experience.

[doconeill]

Thanks so much for the information! We will be using our vouchers for park entry then upgrading to 6 day park hoppers (2 adults & 2 kids). I'm glad to hear it went smoothly for your kids. So it sounds like we have to go to will call first to exchange our vouchers for one day park tickets. Then we enter the park and go to Guest Relations to upgrade? All of the parks have Guest Relations windows outside of the turnstiles as well as inside the parks. Can we go to the Guest Relations window outside the park or do we have to go into the park first before they will allow us to upgrade?

They are requiring that you use the ticket first, which means going in to the park. But you do not need to upgrade it right away - any time before you next need to enter a park is fine - you actually have 14 days to upgrade the ticket.

[DisMomAmy]

They are requiring that you use the ticket first, which means going in to the park. But you do not need to upgrade it right away - any time before you next need to enter a park is fine - you actually have 14 days to upgrade the ticket.

Thanks! That makes sense! We have to visit Guest Relations to get our DS9's Guest Assistance Card, which we usually do outside the park on our first day. We'll just wait and do it inside when we upgrade our tickets.

[MAGGIED]

We have 6 people in our group... but two of them plan on playing golf early in the morning while we are at the park... I want to get the fastpassess so that we can use them later in the day when they join us... will I be able to get theirs if they aren't with me? I can show the golf reservations and have their tickets with me?

[doconeill]

We have 6 people in our group... but two of them plan on playing golf early in the morning while we are at the park... I want to get the fastpassess so that we can use them later in the day when they join us... will I be able to get theirs if they aren't with me? I can show the golf reservations and have their tickets with me?

No, if they aren't present you will not be issued cards for them.

Depending what time they are expected to join you, you could wait and then meet them outside at the will-call window and redeem then. But if it is after 11am, the Fastpass may not be available.

[Befferk]

We were at the will-call window around 8:30/8:45 each day.

Do you happen to know what time the will-call window actually opened?

[momof2cutegirls]

Similar to the above post...Where inside do we head if we want to upgrade to a multi-day pass? Seems kind of strange to have to stand in line twice to do so (once outside and then again inside), but if it applies $79 or $68 towards my 6-day pass...I am not complaining!

[triplejoy]

Similar to the above post...Where inside do we head if we want to upgrade to a multi-day pass? Seems kind of strange to have to stand in line twice to do so (once outside and then again inside), but if it applies $79 or $68 towards my 6-day pass...I am not complaining!

Once inside the park, you can go to any Guest Relations desk and upgrade your tickets. You do not have to do it immediately or even that same day. We entered the park and went about our touring and didn't upgrade our passes until 5pm on that day. It took the CM a little checking on exactly how to do it as it was her first time to do this, but they eventually figured it out after looking up some info and getting a supervisor to assist.

To Befferk - I do not know what time the will-call window opens each day outside the park, but I bet one of the very wise mods on the site will know that info.

triplejoy / rick

[jkstewart1800]

Okay - I think I am finally understanding how it all works... just one last question.

Now that I have my fast pass card and I am standing in the park... where do I go to 'get' the actual fast passes?

[doconeill]

Okay - I think I am finally understanding how it all works... just one last question.

Now that I have my fast pass card and I am standing in the park... where do I go to 'get' the actual fast passes?

The same place you get your regular Fastpasses - the kiosks at each attraction. You just use the card in place of (or in addition to, if you want an extra FP) your ticket.

If you are unfamiliar with Fastpass in general and how it works, see the link in my signature.

[jkstewart1800]

The same place you get your regular Fastpasses - the kiosks at each attraction. You just use the card in place of (or in addition to, if you want an extra FP) your ticket.

If you are unfamiliar with Fastpass in general and how it works, see the link in my signature.

Thanks for the info.... I was thinking it was the kiosks... but you never know ;). I am very familar with the FP system... but I have never used a birthday FP or any other special promotion FP. One last question. When you use your special card (vs your park ticket) is there a time to come back on the FP or is it an immediate FP?

[doconeill]

Thanks for the info.... I was thinking it was the kiosks... but you never know ;). I am very familar with the FP system... but I have never used a birthday FP or any other special promotion FP. One last question. When you use your special card (vs your park ticket) is there a time to come back on the FP or is it an immediate FP?

The return time is immediate - that is, the return window starts with the current time.

[jkstewart1800]

The return time is immediate - that is, the return window starts with the current time.


SWEET! Thanks!

[DonaldDC]

Great thread! Thanks for sharing your experience. Just wondering if anyone knows what rides/attractions this applies to at AK?

[g-dad66]

Great thread! Thanks for sharing your experience. Just wondering if anyone knows what rides/attractions this applies to at AK?

See doconeill's page at http://www.oinc.net/disney/fastpass.php#GAD

[alemap]

We are going on a disney cruise and decided to spend one day before it at MK. We all did our GAD, so we all have a free day. We do not have any tickets yet.

Would you gp ahead and use the voucher for your one and only day there, or would you buy a multi-day no-expiring pass ahead of time on line, and then apply the voucher towards it for the $$ credit? We no doubt will be back sometime, but to think about us all getting a free day right now is tempting....

Which would be the better option?:confused3hmmmm

[doconeill]

We are going on a disney cruise and decided to spend one day before it at MK. We all did our GAD, so we all have a free day. We do not have any tickets yet.

Would you gp ahead and use the voucher for your one and only day there, or would you buy a multi-day no-expiring pass ahead of time on line, and then apply the voucher towards it for the $$ credit? We no doubt will be back sometime, but to think about us all getting a free day right now is tempting....

Which would be the better option?:confused3hmmmm

This thread is about the Fastpass option, so your question is better asked in another thread.

However, you CANNOT get any credit towards a pass you have purchased before you redeem the GAD voucher. The only way to get credit for the day is to get the free ticket, use it, and then UPGRADE that pass to the ticket you want.

And be careful about getting non-expiring tickets. You must plan your trips appropriately such that you do not need to purchase additional days to finish a trip - otherwise you end up spending more.

[andee515]

We completed our GAD opportunity Sunday:banana:

Had a question about redeeming for FP"s; is there anyplace inside the parks to get them? One of the days I want to use it, we will be having breakfast at CRT at 8am for a day that MK opens at 9am; will we have to go back outside the park to get the fastpasses?

[jeffiner1978]

Sorry if this has been asked already but I'm a little confused. I understand that I can redeem my GAD for up to 6 fast passes, but what about the ticket upgrade. Can upgrade my whole parties tickets on one voucher or would each person have to have their own voucher?

[DLR29]

Sorry if this has been asked already but I'm a little confused. I understand that I can redeem my GAD for up to 6 fast passes, but what about the ticket upgrade. Can upgrade my whole parties tickets on one voucher or would each person have to have their own voucher?

I'm not sure what you are asking. You get 1 free ticket with each individual GAD voucher. Then you can upgrade those free tickets to longer stay tickets if you want. I don't think you can use your GAD voucher to upgrade an existing ticket.

[Lisha1979]

Hi Again, It's Miss Confused :confused:

I wanted to ask about once you redeem your tickets from will call and you choose a ride to FP how do you go about Fast Passing the actual ride? Do you go to the FP window thingie and they give you a FP ticket for that very min? or do you still have to wait for an available time?

Also what if you want to fast pass one ride 3 times, can you do that? Or are you limited to one FP per ride in the group?
Thanks so much! =)

[DLR29]

Hi Again, It's Miss Confused :confused:

I wanted to ask about once you redeem your tickets from will call and you choose a ride to FP how do you go about Fast Passing the actual ride? Do you go to the FP window thingie and they give you a FP ticket for that very min? or do you still have to wait for an available time?

Also what if you want to fast pass one ride 3 times, can you do that? Or are you limited to one FP per ride in the group?
Thanks so much! =)

Is this with or without the GADGAD FP? :confused3

[Lisha1979]

Is this with or without the GADGAD FP? :confused3

It's with using the GAD FP. =)

[DLR29]

It's with using the GAD FP. =)

Using the GAD FP, you go up to a FP attraction and enter your special card into the machines. Then the machines will spit out FPs that will be valid immediately. So you insert your GAD FP card at 9:30AM, the FP return window for that ride would be 9:30AM-10:30AM.

Using the GAD FP, you can choose any combination of rides within each "group", and you are able to get between 2 and 4 rides from each group.

So for example at Epcot, Soarin and Test Track are in the "Donald" group and Maelstrom, HISTA, Living with the Land and Mission Space are in the "Daisy" group. It wouldn't make sense if you get 3 FPs from each group and not be able to repeat a ride for the Donald group. You can get all 3 Soarin, all 3 TT, 2 Soarin 1 TT or 2 TT 1 Soarin, as well as 3 of any combo from the "daisy" group. Any mix and match within the groups is fine.

[Lisha1979]

I think that by reading doconeill's page I understand.
Incase I'm not the only one wondering here's what the page says...

"The FASTPASS Exchange Card takes the form of a card that would be inserted into the FASTPASS kiosk instead of your park ticket, and would give you a FASTPASS with a Return Window that starts immediately. These cards do not give an unlimited number of FASTPASSes, however, and they are only good at the park at which you received the card.
In general, you will get between 2 and 4 FASTPASSes per card from each group. The number can vary by park and day, but there is no known way to predict it. 3 seems to have been the most common number. If it is 3 on that day, what you get is three FASTPASSes for any combination of Donald rides, and three FASTPASSes in any combination of Daisy rides. You do not choose them in advance - you choose by putting the Exchange card into the kiosk of the ride you want."

[Lisha1979]

Using the GAD FP, you go up to a FP attraction and enter your special card into the machines. Then the machines will spit out FPs that will be valid immediately. So you insert your GAD FP card at 9:30AM, the FP return window for that ride would be 9:30AM-10:30AM.

Using the GAD FP, you can choose any combination of rides within each "group", and you are able to get between 2 and 4 rides from each group.

So for example at Epcot, Soarin and Test Track are in the "Donald" group and Maelstrom, HISTA, Living with the Land and Mission Space are in the "Daisy" group. It wouldn't make sense if you get 3 FPs from each group and not be able to repeat a ride for the Donald group. You can get all 3 Soarin, all 3 TT, 2 Soarin 1 TT or 2 TT 1 Soarin, as well as 3 of any combo from the "daisy" group. Any mix and match within the groups is fine.


Thanks so much DLR!!! :worship:

[momlee4]

I have a question too.
For each member of my group getting the GAD fastpass, do we each have to select the same rides? My 4 year old can't get on any of the moutain rides (too short), so can I pick Winnie the Pooh for him and myself, and DH can pick the big kid rides with my older boys?

[rebster]

So, I have a question. It will be just my husband and I getting fastpasses, but we have the option of getting four more (if we had four more people with us). Would they (the Disney gods) care if we just gave them to 4 strangers? IE...say hello nice lady would you like to come wait in line with me, and then you can get free GAD fastpasses for your family too? It just seems a waste to not get all six, but maybe awkward to offer it to some random person.

[mikeandkarla]

What time does the will call window outside the park open? i hope it is before park opening.

[princessh]

Is a passport ok for ID? We always travel with our kids passports, will that work or do I also have to bring along the birth certificate? Thanks in advance!

[doconeill]

I have a question too.
For each member of my group getting the GAD fastpass, do we each have to select the same rides? My 4 year old can't get on any of the moutain rides (too short), so can I pick Winnie the Pooh for him and myself, and DH can pick the big kid rides with my older boys?

Each card holder selects their own attractions. Each card is independent.


So, I have a question. It will be just my husband and I getting fastpasses, but we have the option of getting four more (if we had four more people with us). Would they (the Disney gods) care if we just gave them to 4 strangers? IE...say hello nice lady would you like to come wait in line with me, and then you can get free GAD fastpasses for your family too? It just seems a waste to not get all six, but maybe awkward to offer it to some random person.

Technically, they should be part of your group. Practically is another matter.

Is a passport ok for ID? We always travel with our kids passports, will that work or do I also have to bring along the birth certificate? Thanks in advance!

Passports are fine.

What time does the will call window outside the park open? i hope it is before park opening.

I believe it it AT LEAST 30 minutes before park open.

[doconeill]

Had a question about redeeming for FP"s; is there anyplace inside the parks to get them? One of the days I want to use it, we will be having breakfast at CRT at 8am for a day that MK opens at 9am; will we have to go back outside the park to get the fastpasses?

You can ask at the inside Guest Relations, but officially the Will Call window is the only location you can redeem the voucher.

Sorry if this has been asked already but I'm a little confused. I understand that I can redeem my GAD for up to 6 fast passes, but what about the ticket upgrade. Can upgrade my whole parties tickets on one voucher or would each person have to have their own voucher?

Two things:

1) The only thing you get more than one of per voucher is the Fastpass Exchange Cards.

2) You cannot upgrade tickets with the voucher. You can get ONE free 1-day base ticket, and upgrade that, or get one of the other options.

[momlee4]

Thanks doconeill, or should I say Mr. Fastpass, for answering all our fastpass questions!:worship:
That makes it a very sweet deal that our group of 6 can be split into 2 groups and have our own set of fastpassess. Can't wait, can't wait! :banana:

[alemap]

Thank you doconeill for pointing me in the right direction but also answering my question! After finding the GAD upgrade thread, I believe I may have my question answered. The way I see it, it is six in one, half dozen another if I upgrade and pay for a non-expiry ticket now, rather than just waiting until my next visit to buy a regular MYW.
Thanks! Sorry to post in the wrong thread!!!:flower3:

[kellia]

Thanks for the info! Please excuse me if I misunderstood this and am asking what has already been answered. Is the FP for all day or can you use your ticket to get normal FP's for later in the day?

You can upgrade your ticket to 5 day tickets and then be elgible for the dining plan during your stay, right?

TIA!

[Befferk]

Thanks for the info! Please excuse me if I misunderstood this and am asking what has already been answered. Is the FP for all day or can you use your ticket to get normal FP's for later in the day?

You can upgrade your ticket to 5 day tickets and then be elgible for the dining plan during your stay, right?

TIA!

All day, or until the # you are allotted is used up. And you can use your ticket to get regular FP at the same time you get the special FP - they are independent of each other :thumbsup2

[stczt]

Thank you for having this thread and answering all the questions.:thumbsup2

[KimWDW]

I thought I read that you could exchange your voucher for a FastPass for yourself and up to 5 people.

We have 3 people. So we're all doing our service this weekend. I was hoping how it would work was we could each turn in our voucher on separate days so we could have FastPasses one day at MK, one day at EP, and one day at DHS.

So, is that correct? If I turn in my voucher on our first day at the MK and get my FastPass thingy-doo, can my husband and son both use my FastPass thingy-do with me? Do all three of us get on the ride?

Or do we all have to turn in our vouchers on the same day at the same park to get on the rides together? In which case we can really only use it at one park in one day.

Thanks. I'm soooo confused.

[Befferk]

I thought I read that you could exchange your voucher for a FastPass for yourself and up to 5 people.

We have 3 people. So we're all doing our service this weekend. I was hoping how it would work was we could each turn in our voucher on separate days so we could have FastPasses one day at MK, one day at EP, and one day at DHS.

So, is that correct? If I turn in my voucher on our first day at the MK and get my FastPass thingy-doo, can my husband and son both use my FastPass thingy-do with me? Do all three of us get on the ride?

You are right, this is what we are doing. Four of our group are turning in vouchers for the Fastpasses - one at each park, and since there are 6 of us total, we will all get Fastpass cards :thumbsup2

[paysensmom]

Great information! I am curious about the vouchers too. Seems like it would make sense to use one at each park. We will be at the parks for 4 days. There will be four of us and we will have four vouchers, so we could use one voucher at each park and have the FPs for every day we have in the parks?

[g-dad66]

I thought I read that you could exchange your voucher for a FastPass for yourself and up to 5 people.

We have 3 people. So we're all doing our service this weekend. I was hoping how it would work was we could each turn in our voucher on separate days so we could have FastPasses one day at MK, one day at EP, and one day at DHS.

So, is that correct? If I turn in my voucher on our first day at the MK and get my FastPass thingy-doo, can my husband and son both use my FastPass thingy-do with me? Do all three of us get on the ride?



Correct.

[g-dad66]

Great information! I am curious about the vouchers too. Seems like it would make sense to use one at each park. We will be at the parks for 4 days. There will be four of us and we will have four vouchers, so we could use one voucher at each park and have the FPs for every day we have in the parks?

Right.

[KimWDW]

Thank you so much! :)

[2ndstartotheright]

You can upgrade your ticket to 5 day tickets and then be elgible for the dining plan during your stay, right?

TIA!
No- you would not be eligible for DDP with this ticket. For DDP you need to book a pkg with park tickets.

[MamaOfTwoPrincesses]

subscribing for future reference

[limabeanmom2003]

Where is will call located at MK?

[doconeill]

At the actual park, it is usually the Guest Relations window outside to the right of the turnstiles. Sometimes it is the round building across from it. There is an arrow on a pole that says "Will Call" and points to which one it is.

[jeffiner1978]

I'm completing my GAD project next weekend. The organizer said Disney only has a certain number of tickets. I was hoping to trade mine for a fast pass when we go in May. So my question is will there be any left by then? As long as I have a voucher will I be able to exchange or is there a chance I could get to the will call and be told they are no longer accepting the vouchers?

[doconeill]

I'm completing my GAD project next weekend. The organizer said Disney only has a certain number of tickets. I was hoping to trade mine for a fast pass when we go in May. So my question is will there be any left by then? As long as I have a voucher will I be able to exchange or is there a chance I could get to the will call and be told they are no longer accepting the vouchers?

If you get a voucher, you are all set in that regard - you will be able to use it for something. Disney is limiting the number of vouchers.

The Fastpasses themselves MAY be limited - they state that there are a limited number available per day, and you should get them by 11am. But they did this for the Birthday promotion, and no one ever said they were denied...

[jeffiner1978]

Thanks, I plan to be there for rope drop.

[kahpets]

I'm taking my niece (11) and nephew (9) to WDW this summer.

We are signed up for the GAD program. If I have to show the kids birth certificates when we redeem the voucher, will it be an issue that the parent or guardian is not with us?

TIA!!!

[aceys_h0ney]

I am so glad I stopped by here, I did not notice I needed to use the GAD voucher by 11 and we have a 10am breakfast outside the park one morning. Guess we will need to shoot over to MK first then go to breakfast. Thanks for saving the day knowledgeable people!

[Planning fanatic mom]

Another question.

Are there time limits for the GAD FP like the regular ones? Do you have to wait for the window to open to get another?? Like the regular FP, can you use them after the time stamped on the card?

Here's my idea. I don't ride TofT at DHS. So, while the family is riding first thing, I take the GAD FP cards around and gather FP for RnRC, TSM, Voyage of the little Mermaid etc... for later in the day.

Boy, I hope this makes sense.

Thanks for any help.

[MAGGIED]

I am so glad I stopped by here, I did not notice I needed to use the GAD voucher by 11 and we have a 10am breakfast outside the park one morning. Guess we will need to shoot over to MK first then go to breakfast. Thanks for saving the day knowledgeable people!

I don't think you HAVE to USE the fastpass by 11... what they are saying is that Disney has the right to limit the fastpasses they distribute on any given day... so it is recommend you get them as early as possible so as not to miss out..they did this with the birthday celebration fastpasses as well..but as others have said I never heard anyone not being able to get one....

[Cheshire Figment]

Basically Disney is promising that if you get there by 11:00am you will be guaranteed to get the Fastpass Exchange Cards. If you arrive after 11:00 you may not get them.

And when you use the cards, the Fastpass Machine will print a Fastpass for the current time as the return time, so they are valid for immediate entry.

[jkstewart1800]

Another question.

Are there time limits for the GAD FP like the regular ones? Do you have to wait for the window to open to get another?? Like the regular FP, can you use them after the time stamped on the card?

Here's my idea. I don't ride TofT at DHS. So, while the family is riding first thing, I take the GAD FP cards around and gather FP for RnRC, TSM, Voyage of the little Mermaid etc... for later in the day.

Boy, I hope this makes sense.

Thanks for any help.

Some one earlier explained that the FP works instantly, meaning you don't have to collect them for later, you can just walk up and ride...

I think...

[doconeill]

...and you could, if desired, take the card, stick it in the machine three times, and get three Fastpasses for the same attraction...there is no exclusion time for the cards.

[Planning fanatic mom]

...and you could, if desired, take the card, stick it in the machine three times, and get three Fastpasses for the same attraction...there is no exclusion time for the cards.

Thank you that answers it.

[Anal Annie]

We are going down on the evening of Fri. 3/36 for 6 nights. We are a family of 3 and have AP's so I wanted to use our 3 vouchers for the special fast pass cards. I thought I remembered reading where the free admittance would be blacked out for some days beginning on Mon. 3/29 over Easter / spring break. Do you think the fast passes will also be blacked out for some of those days? I expect the crowd levels to go up throughout that week while we are there (we leave on Thurs, before Easter). I am trying to decide if we should use at least 2 of them right away on Sat & Sun before the blackout dates for the free admittance start or if we should save them for the higher crowd level days start.:confused3 Obviously I don't want to hold onto the vouchers and then find out they're not available on those days. With the AP's we can park hop so we we COULD use all 3 of them in 2 days but I'd sort of like to save them & maybe use 1 or 2 once the big crowds ramp up. KWIM?

Any thoughts on how this might play out?

[doconeill]

We are going down on the evening of Fri. 3/36 for 6 nights. We are a family of 3 and have AP's so I wanted to use our 3 vouchers for the special fast pass cards. I thought I remembered reading where the free admittance would be blacked out for some days beginning on Mon. 3/29 over Easter / spring break. Do you think the fast passes will also be blacked out for some of those days? I expect the crowd levels to go up throughout that week while we are there (we leave on Thurs, before Easter). I am trying to decide if we should use at least 2 of them right away on Sat & Sun before the blackout dates for the free admittance start or if we should save them for the higher crowd level days start.:confused3 Obviously I don't want to hold onto the vouchers and then find out they're not available on those days. With the AP's we can park hop so we we COULD use all 3 of them in 2 days but I'd sort of like to save them & maybe use 1 or 2 once the big crowds ramp up. KWIM?

Any thoughts on how this might play out?

According to the Guest Services Managers (the ultimate arbiters of what you can and can't do) that Cheshire Figment talked to, you annot use the GAD vouchers at all on blackout days.

[Anal Annie]

According to the Guest Services Managers (the ultimate arbiters of what you can and can't do) that Cheshire Figment talked to, you annot use the GAD vouchers at all on blackout days.

Oh poo. So if they're saying the fast passes may not be avail. after 11:00 then we should try to park hop BEFORE 11:00 on either Sat or Sun. That's a real push ain't it? I will have to plan, plan, plan according to the park hours, our ADR's & EMH's. Drat!! I wanted this to be FUN not a stressful planning marathon!

[Anal Annie]

Oh poo. So if they're saying the fast passes may not be avail. after 11:00 then we should try to park hop BEFORE 11:00 on either Sat or Sun. That's a real push ain't it? I will have to plan, plan, plan according to the park hours, our ADR's & EMH's. Drat!! I wanted this to be FUN not a stressful planning marathon!

(PS) am I correct on the date that the blackout period starts? Is it Mon, 3/29??

[twokids0204]

Not sure if this has been asked/answered yet or not, but my question is:

If you use a GAD fastpass, can you still collect the regular fastpasses as you normally would?

I would assume yes, but await to hear from those who have experience.

[sidious]

just the birthday program, never got a chance to redeem mine but sound like a good idea

[doconeill]

(PS) am I correct on the date that the blackout period starts? Is it Mon, 3/29??

Yes

Not sure if this has been asked/answered yet or not, but my question is:

If you use a GAD fastpass, can you still collect the regular fastpasses as you normally would?

I would assume yes, but await to hear from those who have experience.

It does not prevent you from getting tickets as normal. They are not linked to your park ticket. So these Fastpasses are in addition to what you normally can get.

[freepixie]

Hold on, there are blackout dates??? When are these dates??? Is there a list???

[doconeill]

Hold on, there are blackout dates??? When are these dates??? Is there a list???

From the sticky thread they everyone should read (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1452684) :):

There are block-out dates of March 29 - April 8 and July 4, 2010.

And of course, anytime after December 15th, which is the last day of the promotion.

[mommyofthreeboys]

Just wanted to thank you for all this information!!!

I read through ALL the pages and they answered the questions I had....sometimes more than once! LOL

[aceys_h0ney]

I don't think you HAVE to USE the fastpass by 11... what they are saying is that Disney has the right to limit the fastpasses they distribute on any given day... so it is recommend you get them as early as possible so as not to miss out..they did this with the birthday celebration fastpasses as well..but as others have said I never heard anyone not being able to get one....

Yeah I am sorry I might have mistyped. I understood that we did not have to use them by 11 just pick them up by then. I don't think I will really change our schedule, we are there for 7 days and only have vouchers for 5 days (which we will exchange for Fastpasses) so we are without for 2 anyway if that happens to be one it will be fine.

[mommyofthreeboys]

Wait....I do have a question and it hasnt been asked on this thread yet....

If you could only get one GAD FP, which one would you get??? I mean which park would you choose?

[doconeill]

Wait....I do have a question and it hasnt been asked on this thread yet....

If you could only get one GAD FP, which one would you get??? I mean which park would you choose?

Well, that's more of a personal preference :)

Myself, probably MK. The larger number of choices and having the extra FPs in conjunction with your normal FPs allows more coverage of the attractions.

Least likely would be AK. Just not enough attractions to make it worthwhile. Last April, we rode Everest 4 times in 90 minutes using Fastpass just once on an EMH morning.

[dislvr74]

Can the GAD voucher be redeemed at the Will Call at TTC or only at one of the parks?

I'm staying at Poly and it would be easiest for us to walk over to TTC first thing in the morning and then know we can take our time eating breakfast, etc before heading to a park.

[Planning fanatic mom]

Wait....I do have a question and it hasnt been asked on this thread yet....

If you could only get one GAD FP, which one would you get??? I mean which park would you choose?

My family would choose DHS because these are the attractions that they love to ride over and over again. They could spend all day just riding TofT, RNRC, and Star Tours.

Magic Kingdom would be my choice.:cloud9:

[Marshay]

Wait....I do have a question and it hasnt been asked on this thread yet....

If you could only get one GAD FP, which one would you get??? I mean which park would you choose?

We are planning to get two FPs and right now I'm thinking Magic Kingdom and DHS.

MK b/c we want to do the mountains and even the Daisy rides are ones we'd like to go on. And this park just always seems crowded in summer when we're going.

DHS, mainly for Toy Story Mania. In fact we might use all 3 (if they do 3 that day) just for this ride. The Daisy ones I'm not really excited about at DHS (wish I could trade them for ToT and RnR!!)

[Dominus]

At risk of sounding dumb and being perhaps redundant...here I go. let's say me, dw, ds9 and ds10 all GAD. Our first day at wdw we go to the will call at Epcot. I turn in my voucher only. We will each get 6 FP correct? On second day, let's say at HS my dw turns in just her voucher for the next batch of 6 FP. So on and so forth for the next 2 days with DSs vouchers. Am I understanding this correctly? It'd be like an extra set of FPS for everyone in my family for 4 days being that's the number of members in my family? If that's correct.....ahhhh yeaaahhh!!!

[twokids0204]

At risk of sounding dumb and being perhaps redundant...here I go. let's say me, dw, ds9 and ds10 all GAD. Our first day at wdw we go to the will call at Epcot. I turn in my voucher only. We will each get 6 FP correct? On second day, let's say at HS my dw turns in just her voucher for the next batch of 6 FP. So on and so forth for the next 2 days with DSs vouchers. Am I understanding this correctly? It'd be like an extra set of FPS for everyone in my family for 4 days being that's the number of members in my family? If that's correct.....ahhhh yeaaahhh!!!

Each FP voucher is good for 6 FP's for your party, so if there are 4 of you, you will each get 6 FP's per voucher.

[doconeill]

Each FP voucher is good for 6 FP's for your party, so if there are 4 of you, you will each get 6 FP's per voucher.

If it is still 6 on that day...the number did vary somewhat with the previous promotion between 4-8.

[Cheshire Figment]

As long as you each have valid multi-day tickets that is what will happen. Actually, each certificate redeemed will get four Fastpass Exchange Cards, one for each member of your group. The result of the card will be immediate Fastpasses at each FP attraction, even if the normal FPs for the atttraction are gone. The attractions usable will vary by park, time of year, phase of the Moon, and other criteria.

[Ptrleblanc]

Got 8 GAD Fastpasses

We just returned from a trip, and I was the only one in our party with a voucher. Our family size was 8 people, and we all went to will call at DHS. They asked how many in the group, and I said we have 8. She had a quick chat with someone in the kiosk with her and poof, she gave us 8 GAD fast pass tickets. That was nice. I also got a Honorary Voluntear button. (On another day at the MK, I saw some volunteers riding in fancy cars during a special parade before the afternoon parade - if you redeem at MK, who knows, you might be invited to ride in the volunteer parade.)

We requested our passes around 11:30 am with no problem. The park didn't seem too busy.

TIP FOR Toy Story Mania
Here's a tip for the Toy Story ride - unlike most of the others, where they cover up the regular fastpass kiosks when the regular fastpass is finished, they did not leave any open kiosks opened at Toy Story Mania. But we asked the CM at the entrance, and they would take our GAD FP vouchers and get them from the machine for us.

[g-dad66]

They said it's supposed up to 6, but she had a quick chat with someone in the kiosk with her and poof, she gave us 8 GAD fast pass tickets.


Cool.

Was each of the 8 Fast Pass Exchange Cards good for 6 attractions (3 "Donald" attractions and 3 "Daisy" attractions)?

[Ptrleblanc]

Cool.

Was each of the 8 Fast Pass Exchange Cards good for 6 attractions (3 "Donald" attractions and 3 "Daisy" attractions)?

That is correct. Each of the 8 were good for 3 Donald and 3 Daisy.

[g-dad66]

That is correct. Each of the 8 were good for 3 Donald and 3 Daisy.

Great. Thanks for the info!

[jduff]

Great info here...thanks! :)

[Planning fanatic mom]

Can someone tell me where to find the list of Daisy and Donald rides for each park? I know that they sometimes change and you can't always tell how many for each day. I would just like a general idea.

Thanks

[doconeill]

Can someone tell me where to find the list of Daisy and Donald rides for each park? I know that they sometimes change and you can't always tell how many for each day. I would just like a general idea.

Thanks

Give A Day Fastpass (http://www.oinc.net/disney/fastpass.php#GAD)

[lomillerin]

1. It seems that there will be a lot of people using this fastpass deal, do you think this will create long waits for the fastpass line?

2. We are still deciding if should use the vouchers for a ticket to upgrade to multday passes or use the fastpass option. We were wanting to wait until it was closer to decide. Can we add tickets to our room ressies a few weeks before we leave, if not, can we buy tickets at the hotels? if we have to wait to buy tickets at a park, how can we then get the FP option? Will we have to go to a different line?

[doconeill]

1. It seems that there will be a lot of people using this fastpass deal, do you think this will create long waits for the fastpass line?

No. The number of people on any given day using these is small compared to the number of people in the park, and they have a limited number of uses.

2. We are still deciding if should use the vouchers for a ticket to upgrade to multday passes or use the fastpass option. We were wanting to wait until it was closer to decide. Can we add tickets to our room ressies a few weeks before we leave, if not, can we buy tickets at the hotels? if we have to wait to buy tickets at a park, how can we then get the FP option? Will we have to go to a different line?

You need to have the multi-day tickets in your hand before your redeem the vouchers. I don't know if they would MAKE you go to a different line. I don't think it would be a problem if you just purchased the tickets first. However, I believe you can get MYW tickets added on at the resort, or just order them online for will-call pickup.

As for adding them to your existing ressie, there is a certain point where you can't make changes without risking any sort of discounts you have, or paying a charge for the change. I forget when that is...

[scrapbooksellman]

We have a voucher, plan to turn it in for fastpasses at Ecpot. Four people in our party: me, hubby, son, and daughter. So we get 6 fastpass uses x 4 people = 24 right? I understand you get 3 uses for one group of rides and 3 from another group.

Can daughter ride soaring 4 times using one of my fastpasses or are they for each assigned person?

[doconeill]

We have a voucher, plan to turn it in for fastpasses at Ecpot. Four people in our party: me, hubby, son, and daughter. So we get 6 fastpass uses x 4 people = 24 right? I understand you get 3 uses for one group of rides and 3 from another group.

Can daughter ride soaring 4 times using one of my fastpasses or are they for each assigned person?

It doesn't matter who uses the FPs you get. Same goes for normal FPs.

And just so you know, it is not guaranteed that it will be 3-and-3 for the number of FPs - that's just what has been reported so far. It varied last year.

[diskids2]

Ok I know that I am repeating what many have already asked and answered but I never used the birthday FP and I will be using my volunteer vouchers for fast passes....so this is what I understand....please correct me if I am wrong.....

I have five members in my travel party and four of us are volunteering. We will receive four GAD vouchers.

I plan on using one voucher at each of the parks...MK, AK, DHS, Epcot.

I will redeem the voucher at the appropriate window which is outside of the park. At this point I will receive back a special fastpass card for each member of my travel party (5). I must do this step by 11 am.

I will then take the special fastpass card and use them at three donald rides and three daisy rides (repeat rides are allowed but not over three in each category) and place them in the special fastpass card kiosks. I will then get fastpasses which are for the current time. If the special kiosks are covered up, I can ask a CM to get me a fastpass.

I can then either use my fastpass as it is the current time or I can keep it for use at a later time like the normal fast pass.

I can get normal fastpasses as per usual with my park tickets.

:cool1:Please say I have it correct!

[doconeill]

Ok I know that I am repeating what many have already asked and answered but I never used the birthday FP and I will be using my volunteer vouchers for fast passes....so this is what I understand....please correct me if I am wrong.....

I have five members in my travel party and four of us are volunteering. We will receive four GAD vouchers.

I plan on using one voucher at each of the parks...MK, AK, DHS, Epcot.

I will redeem the voucher at the appropriate window which is outside of the park. At this point I will receive back a special fastpass card for each member of my travel party (5). I must do this step by 11 am.

I will then take the special fastpass card and use them at three donald rides and three daisy rides (repeat rides are allowed but not over three in each category) and place them in the special fastpass card kiosks. I will then get fastpasses which are for the current time. If the special kiosks are covered up, I can ask a CM to get me a fastpass.

I can then either use my fastpass as it is the current time or I can keep it for use at a later time like the normal fast pass.

I can get normal fastpasses as per usual with my park tickets.

:cool1:Please say I have it correct!

Yes. The only thing to add is that all 5 of you must be present at the will call window to get the cards.

[g-dad66]

and place them in the special fastpass card kiosks. I will then get fastpasses which are for the current time. If the special kiosks are covered up, I can ask a CM to get me a fastpass.


Sounds right to me! :)

I'm not sure about the part above. I think you can use the Exchange Card in any of the Fast Pass kiosks. But there are special ones that will stay open even if all the regular FP kiosks are closed (because regular FPs are gone for the day, or not even being used that day).

Also, apparently you don't HAVE to trade the vouchers in for FP Exchange Cards by 11:00, although you could be denied if it is after 11:00. We're going to try to do this about 4:00 p.m. on our arrival day of March 12, so I will report back on how that works out.

[g-dad66]

Yes. The only thing to add is that all 5 of you must be present at the will call window to get the cards.

And also each needs a photo ID. If kids don't have a photo ID like a passport (school ID NOT acceptable), you need a copy of their birth certificate.

[doconeill]

Sounds right to me! :)

I'm not sure about the part above. I think you can use the Exchange Card in any of the Fast Pass kiosks. But there are special ones that will stay open even if all the regular FP kiosks are closed (because regular FPs are gone for the day, or not even being used that day).

Also, apparently you don't HAVE to trade the vouchers in for FP Exchange Cards by 11:00, although you could be denied if it is after 11:00. We're going to try to do this about 4:00 p.m. on our arrival day of March 12, so I will report back on how that works out.

Both true. The cards will work in any kiosk - one kiosk is (usually) left open after regular FPs are out. At TSM on a number of occasions it has been reported that all the kiosks were covered, but you can ask the CM.

They won't guarantee that you can get the cards after 11am, but no one has reported issues either.

And also each needs a photo ID. If kids don't have a photo ID like a passport (school ID NOT acceptable), you need a copy of their birth certificate.

Although I've heard of some people being asked for their IDs (and their park tickets), only the person redeeming the voucher is required to have ID and a multi-day ticket. I believe they verify everyone elses tickets to make sure they have at least on valid day on them (you are only entitled to the card if you are going in to the park).

That said, everyone except children should have some form of ID anyways...

[diskids2]

Thank you everyone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[g-dad66]

Although I've heard of some people being asked for their IDs (and their park tickets), only the person redeeming the voucher is required to have ID and a multi-day ticket.

Oops, good point.

I was thinking of our group of 4, because both granddaughters did the GAD, so when we redeem their vouchers, we will need ID for them.

Hope I didn't make the waters murkier for anyone! :)

[chickie]

I just wanted to say Thank You for this great, informative thread! I have gotten all of my questions answered!!!!!

[Anal Annie]

:sad2: I just got an email saying that our scheduled evening this Wed. to work at a food bank has been cancelled due to the blizzard this past weekend and a forecast for ANOTHER storm of 10-20 inches for Tue-Wed. :sad2: They are not sure if it will be rescheduled so we may not get the chance to volunteer. The next SCHEDULED food bank isn't until March and it may be full already plus it's only a couple of weeks before our trip... DRAT!! :sad2: I swear I'm gonna go catch that groundhog & BBQ him with a little mesquite!! :rolleyes1

[AlexWyattMommy]

:sad2: I just got an email saying that our scheduled evening this Wed. to work at a food bank has been cancelled due to the blizzard this past weekend and a forecast for ANOTHER storm of 10-20 inches for Tue-Wed. :sad2: They are not sure if it will be rescheduled so we may not get the chance to volunteer. The next SCHEDULED food bank isn't until March and it may be full already plus it's only a couple of weeks before our trip... DRAT!! :sad2: I swear I'm gonna go catch that groundhog & BBQ him with a little mesquite!! :rolleyes1

Is there time to switch your volunteer opportunity to making the blankets for Project Linus? The blanket can be cut and made in about an hour each. If you are more crafty or diligent than me, ;) which is not hard, you could do them quicker.

[ccgirl]

I just want to say a big THANK YOU to the OP and all those that contributed to this thread. This website is simply amazing. I have signed up my family to organize a neighborhood food drive and we just have to drop off what we collected Mon-Fri so that will work great. We are AP holders so we are getting the FP. What a great perk. We volunteer a lot anyway but this just makes it a little sweeter.:cool1:

[Anal Annie]

Is there time to switch your volunteer opportunity to making the blankets for Project Linus? The blanket can be cut and made in about an hour each. If you are more crafty or diligent than me, ;) which is not hard, you could do them quicker.

I looked for that this morning as an option. I found a Project Linus place in VA but it said they were NOT accepting "no sew blankets". I do NOT sew a lick so that's out for us!! I can't even get a button on and get it to stay!:sad2: When something in our house loses a hem or a button it goes into the Goodwill pile. I made a pair of pants once in home economics (I'm sure they call it something else now) and the zipper came out when I washed them.:headache:

The food bank is still closed from the last storm so I will give it a couple more days to hear back - although we're getting another storm tonight... I found out that the March one is full already so hopefully they will reschedule the Feb. one. If not, I found a horse rescue place that MIGHT be an option and I found a thing to make ribbons for MADD at a place in VA. The horse thing is in MD and is closer to home but the ribbons can be made at home once you pick up the materials. They want 500-1,000 per person. :confused3 But DS could definitely do that.

[ftballfan7]

Lots of great information here. My wife read on another thread that if more than one person in your party were to turn in a voucher at the same time, they would have to get out of line after redeeming the first one and then get back into line again in order to redeem the second one, otherwise the other members of your party will not recieve the fastpass cards the second time as they already have one (from the first voucher redeemed). Does anyone know if this is true? There are eight of us and all eight have a voucher. It is our plan to use two vouchers at each park, getting 6 fastpass cards per voucher for a total of 12 to use between us. Has anyone tried redeeming two vouchers at once within their party, and did you receive the full compliment of fastpasses for each voucher? I apologize in advance for making this sound more complicated than it is. Any info is appreciated.

[diskids2]

Getting the FP is presenting a whole new touring strategy for me:hippie:

I was wondering how others (who have used the Birthday FP) might have used these special FP's.

We always go at RP, so I'm figuring on using standby or normal FP's in the morning....obtaining the special FP's... but then using them later in the day or at night.

Any thoughts on this.

[AlexWyattMommy]

My new plans are RD everyday, normal FPs in the morning and saving getting my special FPs for later on. Since that special FP machine will always be open, I'll just wait until I want to ride to get the FP ticket. This way, blonde that I am, I won't lose them if I get them too early.

The key is to make sure I am doing the same park in the AM that I am in the PM. Because you need to get the GAD card before 11 am.

[Befferk]

My strategy is similar to the poster above me. I am also going to get the "regular" ones first as long as they look like a suitable return time.

On one day though, we are park hopping. I's a little extra running, but I will be stopping at DHS to pick up our FP cards for there, then going to AK and getting the FP cards and doing our morning there. Then we'll head back over to DHS in the afternoon. I know there is a chance we wouldn't have a problem getting the FP cards after 11am, but with Toy Story Mania, I don't want to take that chance. That is going to be the most important ride for us since we aren't getting there til afternoon. :scared1:

[Planning fanatic mom]

I've been thinking about this too. You all have brought up some good ideas. We aren't park hopping and will be at rope drops. There are some rides that we like to do many times, so we will be using the GAD FP for those. We will use the regular FP for the one time rides but only if we have to.

This is going to be a change for us, but with the heat of June, I think we will really enjoy this benefit.

[Meteora]

Wow, great information on this thread. A few days ago I finally found a volunteer opportunity that was feasible, so I'm very excited! Most of our vacation falls during the blackout dates, so we will have to use my voucher for FPs the first day we are there, March 28th. We were planning on doing DHS that morning, but now I am thinking the FPs might be better utilized at Epcot, since my parents don't do thrill rides like RnRC, TOT, or ST but love Soarin' and Living with the Land and my dad at least will go on TT. Pretty much the only thing the whole family would want to use it for at DHS is TSM.

The reason we had originally planned DHS rather than Epcot is that Epcot has EMH that morning, so we figured it would be very crowded. We were planning to do DHS in the morning, then a very long and relaxing rest/regroup at the hotel, then walk over for Illuminations (staying at the Swan) and head over to the MK for evening EMH. But now I'm conflicted and wondering if I should revise the plan to make better use of the FPs in a way the whole family can enjoy them. Thoughts?

[jkstewart1800]

I have read here that with the GAD/birthday FP you can have anywhere from 2 to 4 FP per category (donald or daisy)....


my question is... how far in adavance can you find out? Is it determined in advance (like based on season) or day by day park attendence? Or does some one just wake up one morning and say "Today I will grant thee 3 FP..... but lo, tomorrow it will only be 2!"


I still have quite a while before our trip, but when it comes time to set up a touring plan knowing whether or not I have 3FP for SM or only 2 will make a difference.

Thanks!

[diskids2]

My strategy is similar to the poster above me. I am also going to get the "regular" ones first as long as they look like a suitable return time.

On one day though, we are park hopping. I's a little extra running, but I will be stopping at DHS to pick up our FP cards for there, then going to AK and getting the FP cards and doing our morning there. Then we'll head back over to DHS in the afternoon. I know there is a chance we wouldn't have a problem getting the FP cards after 11am, but with Toy Story Mania, I don't want to take that chance. That is going to be the most important ride for us since we aren't getting there til afternoon. :scared1:

I have the same scenario that I was just thinking about as I watch the snow! I just don't know if I can get all five of us to do that.

[doconeill]

I have read here that with the GAD/birthday FP you can have anywhere from 2 to 4 FP per category (donald or daisy)....


my question is... how far in adavance can you find out? Is it determined in advance (like based on season) or day by day park attendence? Or does some one just wake up one morning and say "Today I will grant thee 3 FP..... but lo, tomorrow it will only be 2!"


I still have quite a while before our trip, but when it comes time to set up a touring plan knowing whether or not I have 3FP for SM or only 2 will make a difference.

Thanks!

No one knows the criteria Disney selects. It is printed on the brochures they give with the cards, so they DO know in advance, but they don't publicize it. It appears that the brochures are printed up for around a week at a time, so if it is 3 one day that week, and the brochure is good for a day later in that week, it will probably still be 3.

So far, no one has reported anything other than 3 for the GAD FPs. Disney may have figured out that is a good number in general after futzing with it most of last year.

[jkstewart1800]

No one knows the criteria Disney selects. It is printed on the brochures they give with the cards, so they DO know in advance, but they don't publicize it. It appears that the brochures are printed up for around a week at a time, so if it is 3 one day that week, and the brochure is good for a day later in that week, it will probably still be 3.

So far, no one has reported anything other than 3 for the GAD FPs. Disney may have figured out that is a good number in general after futzing with it most of last year.

Thanks for the info.... good to know that I will hopefully be able to know right before we go.... I'll keep tuned in here to see what people report back.

:rolleyes1

[doconeill]

On one day though, we are park hopping. I's a little extra running, but I will be stopping at DHS to pick up our FP cards for there, then going to AK and getting the FP cards and doing our morning there...

I wanted to call this out...First, only the person who's name is on the voucher can redeem it, so they need to be the one at the will call window and have photo ID (copy of birth certificate OK for children). Second, in order to get the FPXCs for more than the person redeeming the voucher, EVERYONE IN THE GROUP (up the the max 6, but you can try and likely get more if needed) must also be present, and have their park tickets with them for verification.

It sounds as if you were going to be a "runner" alone to DHS to get the FPXCs there...which wouldn't work (unless you wanted only one card...)

[Befferk]

I wanted to call this out...First, only the person who's name is on the voucher can redeem it, so they need to be the one at the will call window and have photo ID (copy of birth certificate OK for children). Second, in order to get the FPXCs for more than the person redeeming the voucher, EVERYONE IN THE GROUP (up the the max 6, but you can try and likely get more if needed) must also be present, and have their park tickets with them for verification.

It sounds as if you were going to be a "runner" alone to DHS to get the FPXCs there...which wouldn't work (unless you wanted only one card...)

Oh, sorry, I knew that I can't get them all myself, I should have pointed that out for others. We're all going to get our FP cards before heading over to AK. ;) I'm dragging all their butts over there.

[g-dad66]

We have three days that we are planning to arrive at a theme park in the late afternoon (our arrival day, our Typhoon Lagoon day, and our Disney Quest day), and I am tentatively planning on trying to get the Fast Pass Exchange Cards then.

This would allow us to spend those evenings in the Fast Lane... ;)

But if we discover that we can't get the Cards at about 4:00 pm on arrival day (March 12), then we'll have to go with "Plan B" (get the Exchange Cards on our Rope Drop mornings instead).

[curemyreed]

I have read here that with the GAD/birthday FP you can have anywhere from 2 to 4 FP per category (donald or daisy)....


my question is... how far in adavance can you find out? Is it determined in advance (like based on season) or day by day park attendence? Or does some one just wake up one morning and say "Today I will grant thee 3 FP..... but lo, tomorrow it will only be 2!"


I still have quite a while before our trip, but when it comes time to set up a touring plan knowing whether or not I have 3FP for SM or only 2 will make a difference.

Thanks!

And I thought I was an UberPlanner.....:worship:

[golf]

If I am exchanging my GAD voucher for a fastpass, will my 5 year old daughter get one, even though she was not old enough to participate in the GAD activity? (she does have a valid multi-day ticket). Also, I assume my 2 year old couldn't get a fastpass, right?

[BradyBz12]

If I am exchanging my GAD voucher for a fastpass, will my 5 year old daughter get one, even though she was not old enough to participate in the GAD activity? (she does have a valid multi-day ticket). Also, I assume my 2 year old couldn't get a fastpass, right?

Your GAD voucher will entitle you to FP for you and up to 5 more members of your party. Just make sure they're all present with you when you exchange it.

Your 2 yo actually won't need a FP since she's young enough not to require a park ticket.

Info from the Ticket Stickey (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1452684&page=2)...
If you have a currently valid annual or multi-day pass in your possession to have three alternate choices instead of the one-day, one-park pass. This pass cannot be any sort of complimentary ticket.

1. Fastpass Exchange Cards for you and up to five members of your party. All members of your party must be present at the time of redemption of the certificate to get the Exchange Cards. The Exchange Cards are valid that day only and at that Park only. Fastpass Exchange Cards may not be available after 11:00am.

[chickie]

i just printed out my vouchers! We have 3 vouchers, but are travelling with 5 of us (our dd's friend and her mom are joining us). I've been giving serious consideration to using the Fastpass option instead of the ticket since we'll be going in mid-March (spring break) and know it will be busier than usual. I'm beginning to think the time savings with the Fastpasses outweighs the cash savings! We'll only be heading to a park on 3 of our days and won't have park hoppers, so this option could be great for us. Now, if I could only get my 10 year old to ride the roller coasters...:rolleyes:

[Anal Annie]

I read on a previous post somewhere that the vouchers would not be accepted AT ALL for ANY OPTION during the black out dates. BUT I was just re-reading the FAQ's today on the GAD website and all it says is:

*The theme park tickets distributed under this Program will not be valid for use on the following dates:
For Walt Disney World® Resort: March 29 - April 8 and July 4, 2010
For the Disneyland® Resort: February 13-14, March 21, June 21-22, July 4, November 21, and December 11-12, 2010.

I had another question too about our GAD date getting postponed due to the blizzard so I called and spent about 30 min. on hold before getting through to a castmember. After I asked my first question I quoted this sentence to her and asked if that meant it also could not be used for the pin figurine thing or for the fast passes on those dates and she said that they CAN be used for any of the other options. Just NOT for the free ticket. She said the Guest Relations Will Call window CM's WILL KNOW this when we go. She had a paper with the terms or whatever on it that she read to me with this information on it. She said it's not on the website but it's been given in writing to the Guest Relations CM's who are working the phones. So I guess we shall see come March 29...

[doconeill]

I read on a previous post somewhere that the vouchers would not be accepted AT ALL for ANY OPTION during the black out dates. BUT I was just re-reading the FAQ's today on the GAD website and all it says is:

*The theme park tickets distributed under this Program will not be valid for use on the following dates:
For Walt Disney World® Resort: March 29 - April 8 and July 4, 2010
For the Disneyland® Resort: February 13-14, March 21, June 21-22, July 4, November 21, and December 11-12, 2010.

I had another question too about our GAD date getting postponed due to the blizzard so I called and spent about 30 min. on hold before getting through to a castmember. After I asked my first question I quoted this sentence to her and asked if that meant it also could not be used for the pin figurine thing or for the fast passes on those dates and she said that they CAN be used for any of the other options. Just NOT for the free ticket. She said the Guest Relations Will Call window CM's WILL KNOW this when we go. She had a paper with the terms or whatever on it that she read to me with this information on it. She said it's not on the website but it's been given in writing to the Guest Relations CM's who are working the phones. So I guess we shall see come March 29...

You can always ask...as a famous podcaster once said, "They can't hit ya!"

However, Cheshire Figment spoke with two separate Guest Service Managers. They are the ones who are in charge of all the ticket windows and Guest Relations. They are the ultimate arbiters of what you are and are not allowed to do. They both said no, you cannot redeem the vouchers on blackout days.

If that has changed, CF should be able to confirm. By "in writing" I'm guessing it would be on the Hub.

[Anal Annie]

You can always ask...as a famous podcaster once said, "They can't hit ya!"

However, Cheshire Figment spoke with two separate Guest Service Managers. They are the ones who are in charge of all the ticket windows and Guest Relations. They are the ultimate arbiters of what you are and are not allowed to do. They both said no, you cannot redeem the vouchers on blackout days.

If that has changed, CF should be able to confirm. By "in writing" I'm guessing it would be on the Hub.

The CM actually said if there was any problems to have the Will Call CM call the GAD Guest Relations CM's. So I guess I will print out the FAQ's and the 407-whatever it is phone number and if they give me a hard time I will call again and let them duke it out over the phone!! She said there was no question that the vouchers were only restricted for use on the free tickets.:confused3

[kathmzh]

I posted this in the main GAD forum, but you guys are experts at the fastpass option...I keep seeing references to needing a MULTI-DAY ticket in hand in order to get the Fastpass Exchange Card...will a single-day ticket work? And here's a new angle...a single-day Convention ticket?


Thanks for this thread, so informative!

[doconeill]

I posted this in the main GAD forum, but you guys are experts at the fastpass option...I keep seeing references to needing a MULTI-DAY ticket in hand in order to get the Fastpass Exchange Card...will a single-day ticket work? And here's a new angle...a single-day Convention ticket?


Thanks for this thread, so informative!

Well, a single day ticket is not a multi day ticket...so.... ;)

No, a single day ticket, regardless of type does not qualify for any of the options. The logic is that a single day ticket, if unused, never expires and therefore you would not lose its value if you used the free ticket instead.

I know a convention ticket does expire, bu they are heavily discounted and often don't qualify for a lot of things regular tickets do.

Now, if it was a multi-day convention ticket, I believe you could still qualify - but if there are restrictions on time (some convention tickets are only after 2pm, etc.), then you might not be able to get the FP option anyways.

[Meteora]

The CM actually said if there was any problems to have the Will Call CM call the GAD Guest Relations CM's. So I guess I will print out the FAQ's and the 407-whatever it is phone number and if they give me a hard time I will call again and let them duke it out over the phone!! She said there was no question that the vouchers were only restricted for use on the free tickets.


Hmm. My sister and her boyfriend have said they would be happy to volunteer for the program, but I had told them it didn't make sense to do so since we wouldn't be able to use their vouchers, and to just volunteer wherever they wanted not associated with the program. If the blackout dates don't apply to FPs, we WOULD be able to use those vouchers and I would tell them to go sign up. Cheshire Figment, if you could get further clarification on this it would be enormously helpful.

[Anal Annie]

Hmm. My sister and her boyfriend have said they would be happy to volunteer for the program, but I had told them it didn't make sense to do so since we wouldn't be able to use their vouchers, and to just volunteer wherever they wanted not associated with the program. If the blackout dates don't apply to FPs, we WOULD be able to use those vouchers and I would tell them to go sign up. Cheshire Figment, if you could get further clarification on this it would be enormously helpful.

Contact info. copied from the GAD / GAD website:
please email the Guest Call Center at giveadaysupport@disneyparks.twdc.com or call (407) 827-5990 for assistance (Operating hours are 9 am - 8 pm EST Mon. - Fri., 9 am - 6 pm EST Sat. and Sun.)
Perhaps someone else (Cheshire Figment or doconeill :confused3) should also call and ask about the voucher use for fast passes during the blackout dates? Let's see if anyone else gets a different response. :confused3 These CM's at the GAD program cannot keep giving out incorrect information if the CM's in charge at the parks are allowed to make up their own rules.

[kathmzh]

Well, a single day ticket is not a multi day ticket...so.... ;)

No, a single day ticket, regardless of type does not qualify for any of the options. The logic is that a single day ticket, if unused, never expires and therefore you would not lose its value if you used the free ticket instead.

I know a convention ticket does expire, bu they are heavily discounted and often don't qualify for a lot of things regular tickets do.

Now, if it was a multi-day convention ticket, I believe you could still qualify - but if there are restrictions on time (some convention tickets are only after 2pm, etc.), then you might not be able to get the FP option anyways.

I know a single day is not a multi day, that's why I asked, it was the reason behind the qualification that I did not know. Thank you very much for the clarification.

[Meteora]

Perhaps someone else (Cheshire Figment or doconeill ) should also call and ask about the voucher use for fast passes during the blackout dates? Let's see if anyone else gets a different response. These CM's at the GAD program cannot keep giving out incorrect information if the CM's in charge at the parks are allowed to make up their own rules.

I agree; it's very confusing, and whether or not you can use FPs on those days would make a huge difference to us. And, obviously, if you can, my sister and her boyfriend will want to get signed up ASAP.

I don't know what we'd do if we didn't have people like Cheshire Figment and doconeill helping us out with all this. We're lucky duckies!

[BradyBz12]

Hmm. My sister and her boyfriend have said they would be happy to volunteer for the program, but I had told them it didn't make sense to do so since we wouldn't be able to use their vouchers, and to just volunteer wherever they wanted not associated with the program. If the blackout dates don't apply to FPs, we WOULD be able to use those vouchers and I would tell them to go sign up.

Not sure if I'm reading this right, so forgive me if I'm not, but if your sister and her BF volunteer, only they can use the vouchers, as they're not transferable. Each voucher has the name of the individual who volunteered on it and you have to produce valid ID which matches to exchange it for any of the options.

[Meteora]

BradyBz12, thanks for trying to look out for us. :) I didn't make it clear that sister and boyfriend (22 and 21 years old) are traveling WITH us; the whole family is going on vacation together. And we would be using the vouchers for fast passes for our party of five--My mom, my dad, me, sister, and sister's boyfriend. We are going to the parks on the 28th, before the blackout days, which is when I was planning to use my voucher. I've been assuming no other vouchers would be useful, since the 29th starts the blackout dates. But if you can get fast passes then, just not park tickets, then that changes things.

[BradyBz12]

Ah got it! That works, then. :thumbsup2

[Meteora]

My father told my I should call Disney and ask about this--but I guess the frustrating part is that, thanks to Anal Annie, I already know what they will say, and it probably gets me no closer to the truth. Maybe I'll email anyway, just to see if the answer is consistent. I don't want to have my sister sign up and do a day if it turns out it won't work out--that would be so frustrating--but it would be so valuable to us if we COULD get those FPs. Oh, decisions, decisions.

[Anal Annie]

OK FOLKS!! I also sent an email to the GAD email address the other day but then got ansy & I called too. I JUST NOW got a reply to my email. I will copy the part from their response below that pertains to the blackout dates:

....Regarding the block-out periods, there are two alternate options available.


The first option is a FASTPASS exchange card. The number of FASTPASS

exchange cards issued per day is limited and may not be available after 11am.

The number of attractions the exchange card is valid for may change

based on a number of factors and therefore is unspecified. Details can

be give upon arrival. The FASTPASS benefit is for the volunteer and up

to 5 members of his/her party.


The second option is an Ear Hat figurine. The Ear Hat figurine is not Vinylmation.

It is a figurine shaped like Mickey Mouse's ears and has a round patch on the

front stating "Honorary Volunteer" on it. In addition, it has six unique Disney

Character trading pins attached to it....

....Thank you for celebrating volunteerism with us.


Sincerely,


Andrew Shepard

“Give A Day. Get A Disney Day.” Support Team


So you can bet that I will be printing this email out to bring with me "just in case"! But I think the CM's that C.F. is talking to may not necessarily have the final say.:confused3

[doconeill]

Well, hopefully they are thinking about it now and leaving some options open. The Fastpass option could be HUGE during those times...

[Meteora]

Thanks for sharing the email, Annie; I'm assuming I will get a similar one in a few days.

doconeill or Chesire Figment, in your professional opinions ;), would having an email from guest relations with that information allow one to use the vouchers as stated in the email even if the Guest Service Managers have directed that the blackout dates are blackout for ALL options? I'm still conflicted about what to do. I mean, worse comes to worst and they won't accept vouchers from people during that time at all, we could just donate our "extras." But it would make so much sense for my touring plan to use my voucher for FPs mid-week, instead of that Saturday (the 28th, last day before the blackout). But I don't want to risk it if there's a chance they won't take it then! In conclusion, as my grandmother would say: oy vey.

[doconeill]

I cannot provide a professional opinion about anything Disney says. ;)

I think information is likely to be concrete closer to the time in question. Or at least as concrete as any information we get can be. Unfortunately, this might mean some flexibility in planning, and for those who can't have a backup plan (vacation doesn't span the end of the block-out period), probably a tough decision.

[Cdn Gal]

Thank you to everybody that has helped answer some of the fast pass questions. It is truly appreciated! :thumbsup2

[Petraman]

My new plans are RD everyday, normal FPs in the morning and saving getting my special FPs for later on. Since that special FP machine will always be open, I'll just wait until I want to ride to get the FP ticket. This way, blonde that I am, I won't lose them if I get them too early.

The key is to make sure I am doing the same park in the AM that I am in the PM. Because you need to get the GAD card before 11 am.

It is kind of fun doing "Special GAD FP touring plans".

I have been working on this for weeks! I know I need help!

We are going to do RD each day, then go directly to fav e-ticket ride, get FP and Special FP, then try to get on through standby. Then use the GAD FP immediately for second ride. Then use FP later for a total of 3x for those key rides. We plan on using the special FP right away for each ride unless the standby is less than 10 mins.

This is going to make our trip so nice.... more free time for the pool!

[BradyBz12]

More fuel for the "can you use vouchers for FP on blockout dates" debate posted today on another thread....

I had to call WDS today for another question about our upcoming trip and I asked about the blackout dates. The CM I spoke with had to put me on hold and ask and came back and said that the vouchers weren't good for anything during the blackout dates. I guess it makes sense to bring your voucher along and ask and see, in case there has been a change.

[Meteora]

And the confusion continues. It would really be nice for them to get on the same page over there. If the vouchers aren't good for anything during the blackout dates, that's fine. But it's not fine if that's the case and they are sending emails and answering calls and saying otherwise.

Yesterday, I was pretty eager to get my other family members signed up. Today I'm feeling skeptical again.

[Petraman]

And the confusion continues. It would really be nice for them to get on the same page over there. If the vouchers aren't good for anything during the blackout dates, that's fine. But it's not fine if that's the case and they are sending emails and answering calls and saying otherwise.

Yesterday, I was pretty eager to get my other family members signed up. Today I'm feeling skeptical again.

Here's the thing. You mentioned you were expecting an e-mail like Annie got. If you actually have an e-mail from them with evidence that they sent it (e-mail address on the e-mail), they are basically going to have to honor it. They may hesitate and drag it out, but stay firm until they honor the promise they made. I agree though, why all of this has to be so mysterious and one place has no idea what the other place is saying id frustrating and downright unprofessional.

[ohlas]

Hi Again, It's Miss Confused :confused:

I wanted to ask about once you redeem your tickets from will call and you choose a ride to FP how do you go about Fast Passing the actual ride? Do you go to the FP window thingie and they give you a FP ticket for that very min? or do you still have to wait for an available time?

Also what if you want to fast pass one ride 3 times, can you do that? Or are you limited to one FP per ride in the group?
Thanks so much! =)

1.you go to park

2. inside park you go to customer service counter

3. they hand you id card that is the plastic special fast pass

4. you go on your way in disney

5. you enjoy walking directly onto rides.

it looks like the passes have tabs on the side if you look at the picture, and you still can get fp from the machines if you like.


No its like you can just walk on instant fast pass. no home directly to jail opps i meant ride lol

i hope im not wrong this is how i understand it

my question is how many a day are they giving out do i have to be at customer services before 11 am when the park opens and how many fast pass for each voucher> i have a party of 4 we have 3 voucher coming.

[hygienejean]

Where can I see a picture of the GAD fastpass card? :goodvibes

[la79al]

I am just wondering how many FPs everyone is getting. I know the number can vary from 2-4, I'm just wondering if most people are getting 3. Thanks. Oh, also, I know that they state FP cards may be gone by 11 but I'm wondering whether anyone has had success getting them after that.

[doconeill]

Where can I see a picture of the GAD fastpass card? :goodvibes

I haven't seen a picture of the current ones, or if they are any different than the Birthday cards. If you search on the boards for "birthday fastpass", you might find some threads with the pictures.

I am just wondering how many FPs everyone is getting. I know the number can vary from 2-4, I'm just wondering if most people are getting 3. Thanks.

Everyone has reported 3 so far, although no one has reported anything from AK yet that I have seen.

[doconeill]

1.you go to park

2. inside park you go to customer service counter

3. they hand you id card that is the plastic special fast pass

4. you go on your way in disney

5. you enjoy walking directly onto rides.

it looks like the passes have tabs on the side if you look at the picture, and you still can get fp from the machines if you like.


No its like you can just walk on instant fast pass. no home directly to jail opps i meant ride lol

i hope im not wrong this is how i understand it

my question is how many a day are they giving out do i have to be at customer services before 11 am when the park opens and how many fast pass for each voucher> i have a party of 4 we have 3 voucher coming.

Unfortunately you are incorrect on several of these points. :(

First, you do not go into the park, you go to the will call window outside the park - it is one of the ticket booths, or in the case of the MK entrance, usually the Guest Relations window. You turn in your GAD voucher there, provide proof (photo ID, multi-day ticket) and choose the FP option.

More details on the card and how to use to can be found here (http://www.oinc.net/disney/fastpass.php#GAD).

It sounds like you are remember the Dream Fastpass, one of the prizes during the Year Of A Million Dreams, which had the break-off tabs on the sides. They don't use those any more.

For your question specifically, there is no set number that Disney will tell us. They will only say that they MAY run out, and they MAY not give them out after 11am, although no one has reported problems getting them later in the day.

For ONE voucher, all four of you will get a FPXC, so long as all of you are present at the will call window. So you can take your three vouchers and do the same on different days at the same or different parks. Some have talked about using more than one at the same park, although it is uncertain if the CM will balk at giving out more than one set to a group.

[hygienejean]

Hi all, Great thread, thanks for all of the info!

I have 2 breakfasts that will be in either MK and AK before the parks open. Is the will call window open at those parks at that time? Will I have to go back to the entrance later in the morning?

thanks!
:goodvibes

[ohlas]

Unfortunately you are incorrect on several of these points. :(

First, you do not go into the park, you go to the will call window outside the park - it is one of the ticket booths, or in the case of the MK entrance, usually the Guest Relations window. You turn in your GAD voucher there, provide proof (photo ID, multi-day ticket) and choose the FP option.

More details on the card and how to use to can be found here (http://www.oinc.net/disney/fastpass.php#GAD).

It sounds like you are remember the Dream Fastpass, one of the prizes during the Year Of A Million Dreams, which had the break-off tabs on the sides. They don't use those any more.

For your question specifically, there is no set number that Disney will tell us. They will only say that they MAY run out, and they MAY not give them out after 11am, although no one has reported problems getting them later in the day.

For ONE voucher, all four of you will get a FPXC, so long as all of you are present at the will call window. So you can take your three vouchers and do the same on different days at the same or different parks. Some have talked about using more than one at the same park, although it is uncertain if the CM will balk at giving out more than one set to a group.

ty and yes the last one we had where blue and had taps im old :rotfl: ok so how do they keep track of how many times you go on space mountain then :bride:

[doconeill]

ty and yes the last one we had where blue and had taps im old :rotfl: ok so how do they keep track of how many times you go on space mountain then :bride:

The card has "credits" on it. You have X Donald credits and X Daisy credits, with X commonly being 3. You have to keep track yourself - someone recommended using a Sharpie and marking the card as you used it.

[doconeill]

Hi all, Great thread, thanks for all of the info!

I have 2 breakfasts that will be in either MK and AK before the parks open. Is the will call window open at those parks at that time? Will I have to go back to the entrance later in the morning?

thanks!
:goodvibes

In general, the will call window would be open AT LEAST 30 minutes before park open, and I would expect that either it and/or the Guest Relations window will be open before you can get into the park even with early ADRs. If the will call window is open, go there first. If not, try Guest Relations.

At the MK, it is often the same window :)

[ohlas]

now im wondering u get the pass they are plastic with swipe thing, but dont you just flash them and walk on to the fast pass line and get on the ride.

[doconeill]

now im wondering u get the pass they are plastic with swipe thing, but dont you just flash them and walk on to the fast pass line and get on the ride.

No. Read the link I posted (which is also in my signature).

[LWdisney]

The card has "credits" on it. You have X Donald credits and X Daisy credits, with X commonly being 3. You have to keep track yourself - someone recommended using a Sharpie and marking the card as you used it.

When we used our GAD FPs at the beginning of Feb., we had 3 FP for each group. If you tried to get a Space Mtn pass a fourth time, a card came out that indicated it was not a valid fastpass, because you had exceeded the limit. [It was an honest oversight, really!] So, if you lose track, never fear: The Mouse will not.

But between GAD FP and regular ones, we did not wait in line a single time all day, rope drop to fireworks, on a crowd calendar 8 day ... It was a magical thing of beauty.

[ohlas]

ok so let me try this one more time

1. i go to the will call window or guest relations get fast pass cards before 11am at what ever park i want to use them at.

2. everyone has to be there that is getting the special fast pass card

3.one voucher get up to blank special fast pass cards

4. i take card to fast pass machine and get ticket that says get on ride now time

5. i get to pick what rides when i put special fast pass card in machine but normally it is x(3) per donald and x(3) per daisy= x(6) total perday but determind that day by vistor load or wind speed lol


ps thank you because this has been bugging me for day thank you for being so much smarter then all of us
can i ride the same ride all three times for donald like ie space mountain right in arrow which would make me so sick lol :sick: or only one card per ride or is that one ride per card....

[doconeill]

ok so let me try this one more time

1. i go to the will call window or guest relations get fast pass cards before 11am at what ever park i want to use them at.

2. everyone has to be there that is getting the special fast pass card

3.one voucher get up to blank special fast pass cards

4. i take card to fast pass machine and get ticket that says get on ride now time

5. i get to pick what rides when i put special fast pass card in machine but normally it is x(3) per donald and x(3) per daisy= x(6) total perday but determind that day by vistor load or wind speed lol

can i ride the same ride all three times for donald like ie space mountain right in arrow which would make me so sick lol :sick: or only one card per ride or is that one ride per card....

Yes to all, and yes you can ride the same attraction multiple times. 3 Donald credits at Epcot wouldn't be very useful with only two Donald attractions :)

[ohlas]

Yes to all, and yes you can ride the same attraction multiple times. 3 Donald credits at Epcot wouldn't be very useful with only two Donald attractions :)

smarty:laughing::laughing::laughing:

man i miss disney it has been too (2000) long i cannt wait to go and wow i get a reward for helping people.... go disney nice pr move

[LWdisney]

can i ride the same ride all three times for donald like ie space mountain right in arrow which would make me so sick lol :sick: or only one card per ride or is that one ride per card....

You can use it to ride three times, indeed! That's what we did ...

Enjoy!

[ohlas]

You can use it to ride three times, indeed! That's what we did ...

Enjoy!

are the special fast pass cards plastic kinda so you can take them home to keep or do the machines eat them lol :wizard: magic this is one of the last question i can think of

[doconeill]

are the special fast pass cards plastic kinda so you can take them home to keep or do the machines eat them lol :wizard: magic this is one of the last question i can think of

They are plastic and credit card sized, and you get to keep them.

[Planning fanatic mom]

It is kind of fun doing "Special GAD FP touring plans".

I have been working on this for weeks! I know I need help!

We are going to do RD each day, then go directly to fav e-ticket ride, get FP and Special FP, then try to get on through standby. Then use the GAD FP immediately for second ride. Then use FP later for a total of 3x for those key rides. We plan on using the special FP right away for each ride unless the standby is less than 10 mins.

This is going to make our trip so nice.... more free time for the pool!

This is pretty much our plan. we are excited to not have to wait in those lines in the June heat. :cool1:

This is so cool!:hippie:

[Psychodisney]

Just wanted to confirm the cards don't have special tabs. Ours was a credit card sized plastic card for each person(with Donald on it). You will also receive a list of the rides available at the specific park. We were also told if you don't want to ride the Donald rides, you can do 6 Daisy rides. Insert it into the FP machine, out comes a FP with an immediate ride time. I'll post a picture later today.

[doconeill]

Just wanted to confirm the cards don't have special tabs. Ours was a credit card sized plastic card for each person(with Donald on it). You will also receive a list of the rides available at the specific park. We were also told if you don't want to ride the Donald rides, you can do 6 Daisy rides. Insert it into the FP machine, out comes a FP with an immediate ride time. I'll post a picture later today.

Now that's new...anyone tried this?

[LWdisney]

Now that's new...anyone tried this?

Ours did not work that way - as I mentioned before, the fastpass machine printed out a pass that indicated we had exceeded our Donalds, when the GAD FP was inserted for the 4th time ...

Different rules on different days, maybe?

[doconeill]

Ours did not work that way - as I mentioned before, the fastpass machine printed out a pass that indicated we had exceeded our Donalds, when the GAD FP was inserted for the 4th time ...

Different rules on different days, maybe?

Ah, but Psychodisney says you can use a Donald credit at a Daisy (I assume after you've used up all your Daisy credits). I don't know too many people willing to give up a Donald credit though... :)

[LWdisney]

Ah, sorry! Now I'm on track. That level of detail was NOT included in the explanation we received, FWIW.

[AlexWyattMommy]

I think it is a 3 time max and any one ride - regardless of Donald or Daisy.

[zoe618]

okay... so the 5 of us in my family could get the GAD fastpasses for each of us for 6 rides in each park?? that sounds too good to be true... then again it is disney world... :confused: clarifications would be greatly appreciated lol

[doconeill]

okay... so the 5 of us in my family could get the GAD fastpasses for each of us for 6 rides in each park?? that sounds too good to be true... then again it is disney world... :confused: clarifications would be greatly appreciated lol

In essence, yes. All 5 of you will get a card, good for (likely - numbers are flexible) 6 total instant FPs each allowing you to bypass the standby line. Half of them can be used at "Donald" attractions (the most popular) and the other half for "Daisy" attractions (the rest of the FP attractions).

More details at the link in my signature.

[zoe618]

In essence, yes. All 5 of you will get a card, good for (likely - numbers are flexible) 6 total instant FPs each allowing you to bypass the standby line. Half of them can be used at "Donald" attractions (the most popular) and the other half for "Daisy" attractions (the rest of the FP attractions).

More details at the link in my signature.

That sounds awesome!! So if we went too say HS one day, we could all get FPs for 3 donald rides and 3 daisy rides? could we do this for all the parks once on our trip?

[doconeill]

That sounds awesome!! So if we went too say HS one day, we could all get FPs for 3 donald rides and 3 daisy rides? could we do this for all the parks once on our trip?

You can do this as many times as you want if you have the GAD vouchers for it, and each person who has a GAD voucher MUST have a valid multi-day ticket when they redeem their voucher.

Each GAD voucher is good only ONCE.

[zoe618]

You can do this as many times as you want if you have the GAD vouchers for it, and each person who has a GAD voucher MUST have a valid multi-day ticket when they redeem their voucher.

Each GAD voucher is good only ONCE.

when you say each GAD voucher is good only once does this mean only one trip? or once for each park?

[doconeill]

when you say each GAD voucher is good only once does this mean only one trip? or once for each park?

Once, period, forever. If you go to a park and redeem a GAD voucher, it is used and can never be used again.

[zoe618]

Once, period, forever. If you go to a park and redeem a GAD voucher, it is used and can never be used again.

okay so these can only be used once at one park during the whole duration of your trip?

[doconeill]

okay so these can only be used once at one park during the whole duration of your trip?

YES. And any other trips you may do this year.

[Befferk]

okay so these can only be used once at one park during the whole duration of your trip?

Yes. To illustrate what doconeill is explaining, on our trip:

Day 1- (Epcot): My niece will turn in her voucher for her park ticket. I will then turn in my voucher for the Fastpasses for our entire party of 6. Both of our vouchers are used and cannot be used again.

Day 2- (MK): My husband will turn in his voucher to get Fastpasses for our party of 6. Then his voucher is done.

Day 3- (AK/DHS): My mom will turn in her voucher to get Fastpasses for our party of 6 at AK, my dad will turn in his voucher to get Fastpasses for our party of 6 at DHS, and my son will turn his voucher to get the ears/pin. = Vouchers all gone ;) Forever.

[zoe618]

Yes. To illustrate what doconeill is explaining, on our trip:

Day 1- (Epcot): My niece will turn in her voucher for her park ticket. I will then turn in my voucher for the Fastpasses for our entire party of 6. Both of our vouchers are used and cannot be used again.

Day 2- (MK): My husband will turn in his voucher to get Fastpasses for our party of 6. Then his voucher is done.

Day 3- (AK/DHS): My mom will turn in her voucher to get Fastpasses for our party of 6 at AK, my dad will turn in his voucher to get Fastpasses for our party of 6 at DHS, and my son will turn his voucher to get the ears/pin. = Vouchers all gone ;) Forever.

ohh okay thanks a milion to you and doconeil for explaining this to me!! I was having major brain cramps :rotfl:

[Psychodisney]

Here's a picture of the card we rec'd last week.
http://i851.photobucket.com/albums/ab73/momdex/DSCN0461.jpg

[doconeill]

Thanks for the image! Looks similar if not identical to the cards they used last year.

[Disneyhappy]

Sorry to be so dense but I amnot sure I still fully understand after reading all of these posts. The FP exchange rate per GAD voucher is for six attractions, correct. Will the GAD FP from one voucher allow my whole party to get 6 FP in one day or a total of 6. So if we have a party of 4, my one voucher will get us six FP total. We culd ride one ride together and then 2 could use the remaining FP or is one voucher good for 6 FP for my entire group (24 individual passes)? I think the answer is 6 total but I got confused with some of the explanations.
TIA!

[Befferk]

Sorry to be so dense but I amnot sure I still fully understand after reading all of these posts. The FP exchange rate per GAD voucher is for six attractions, correct. Will the GAD FP from one voucher allow my whole party to get 6 FP in one day or a total of 6. So if we have a party of 4, my one voucher will get us six FP total. We culd ride one ride together and then 2 could use the remaining FP or is one voucher good for 6 FP for my entire group (24 individual passes)? I think the answer is 6 total but I got confused with some of the explanations.
TIA!

Each person (up to 6 people total) get a card. Each card is good for that person to use on up to 6* rides (*that's the # those who have went have reported).

[AlexWyattMommy]

Like the above person said - each voucher is good for up to 6 Fast Pass cards. Since you only have 4 people you will only get 4 Fast Pass cards. Each card is good for possibly 6 rides [this is the part that may be variable].

Who uses those 4 cards after you have them is up to you.

[doconeill]

Let me see if I can break this down a bit more.

YOU have ONE GAD voucher, in your name. You have 4 people total in your group.

You ALL go to the will-call window, with your tickets.

YOU must have a valid photo ID and a valid multi-day ticket with at least 1 day remaining on it. All others must have any valid ticket with at least 1 day remaining on it.

You ask for the Fastpass option.

ALL FOUR of you receive ONE Fastpass Exchange Card EACH (a total of 4 cards).

EACH card can be used up to X total times on attractions in the Donald list, and X total times on attractions in the Daisy list, where X can be any number, but has always been either 2, 3, or 4, with 3 being the most common (and the only number reported since Jan. 1st). So the card is good for X times 2 (i.e. 4, 6 or 8, commonly 6) total uses.

So, with 4 cards, you will likely get a total of 24 uses between the four of you. They are not actually tied to a person. You could give the cards all to one person, and that person could ride all day and never see a standby line.

When the card is placed into a FP kiosk, the kiosk will issue out a single Fastpass, good for one person, with an instant return time - so in essence you get to use the Fastpass line immediately.

[donaldsgal]

doconeill, as someone who benefited from your explanation several days ago, I want to thank you and recognize you for your patience and thoroughness in answering all these questions. I actually think that last post was the clearest yet. You are very kind to help out people again and again. Thanks for all you do on the boards!

[MickeysFans]

Best information I have seen anywhere to understand :worship:GAD

[MickeysFans]

I have seen some confusion elsewhere about applying the vaue to passes (multi-day vs. annual pass). Anyone have the scoop? We are trying to decide...I lean towards FP, but would love AP to have to go back sooner! MN has a loooong winter:sad2:

[doconeill]

I have seen some confusion elsewhere about applying the vaue to passes (multi-day vs. annual pass). Anyone have the scoop? We are trying to decide...I lean towards FP, but would love AP to have to go back sooner! MN has a loooong winter:sad2:

Not sure what your exact question is, but to apply the value of the free ticket to a longer ticket or pass, you CANNOT already have a ticket in hand and apply the GAD ticket value to the existing. You MUST opt for the GAD ticket and upgrade that to whatever target ticket you want. If you already have a ticket (as part of a package, etc.), it is more economical in the long run to pocket that ticket for a future trip and use the upgraded GAD ticket.

The "exception" is that you can apply the GAD ticket value towards a Pass renewal, IF you are within 30 days of either side of the expiration date.

Now, the RULES state that you must get the ticket and USE it first by entering the park, and THEN upgrade, but several have reported being able to upgrade instantly without an issue.

[MickeysFans]

Sorry, I was not clear. We do not have tickets yet but wonder if we can show up with our vouchers and use the value towards a 10 day PH W+ ticket. I thought I read that you can apply it towards an annual pass, but I saw debate about a multiday. Have you heard anything about those two situations?

[cory1965]

Doconeill, THANK YOU! :worship::cheer2::cheer2::worship:

[doconeill]

Sorry, I was not clear. We do not have tickets yet but wonder if we can show up with our vouchers and use the value towards a 10 day PH W+ ticket. I thought I read that you can apply it towards an annual pass, but I saw debate about a multiday. Have you heard anything about those two situations?

There should be no difference in upgrading to ANY ticket that you are eligible to upgrade to. The military salute tickets might be an exception.

For all intents and purposes you are receiving a 1-day base MYW ticket and can use it as such - the only difference is that it expires at the end of the day you receive it and is completely invalid if you don't use it that day.

[Meteora]

And...it continues. Here is the relevant section of the email I just received from the "Give a day support team"

We appreciate your interest in the 2010 "Give A Day. Get A Disney Day" program where we hope to inspire families to volunteer in their communities and we’re glad you are planning on visiting us this year. As you know, the voucher may be redeemed through December 15, 2010. However, you will not be able to redeem your voucher during the following blocked out dates:

- Walt Disney World® Resort: March 29 - April 8 and July 4, 2010

- The Disneyland® Resort: February 13-14, March 21, June 21-22, July 4, November 21, December 11-12, 2010.

We truly regret any inconvenience this may cause you. It may interest you to know that although the complimentary ticket may not be redeemed during the block out dates listed above, the alternate options are still available without block out dates. For more information including a list of frequently asked questions including the alternate options, you may visit www.disneyparks.com and click the link to the “Give A Day. Get A Disney Day.” program.

And...I STILL don't know what to do! :rotfl:

[doconeill]

Sigh. Nothing like a response that actually contradicts itself.

I'm guessing it is meant to say "you will not be able to redeem your voucher for a ticket..."

I think there is enough ammunition to be able to put up a fight with guest services if needed. But if they aren't prepared to give out the FPXC, it could be a long one...

I'd take a copy of the email and the phone number that Annie got...

[Anal Annie]

And...it continues. Here is the relevant section of the email I just received from the "Give a day support team"



And...I STILL don't know what to do! :rotfl:

"It may interest you to know that although the complimentary ticket may not be redeemed during the block out dates listed above, the alternate options are still available without block out dates"


Well, personally, it sounds to ME like the email was actually composed & written by whoever sent it to you as the wording is a bit different than the one I received...but I think the GIST of it is still saying that while the vouchers are not allowed to be redeemed for TICKETS during the blackout period there is nothing stopping them from use for the other options... To me, it sounds not quite like a typo but just not a completed thought. Like when you think faster than you can type & leave out a word or something. :confused3

HOPEFULLY, someone on the GAD end will realize there's enough confusion about it with all the inquiries & maybe they will edit the website to reflect it properly before spring break gets here?! That would certainly eliminate a lot of the confusion.

[erinkpoole]

This thread is awesome. We are traveling during the blackout dates listed on the GAD website. Now I know that we can use our vouchers for fastpasses since we have APs. That will help a tremendous amount during that really busy time.

Thanks to the DIS!

Erin

PS I know that I may need to be pleasantly persistent at the Will Call window because of the blackout date confusion.:cheer2:

[Meteora]

I feel like I've moved into this thread. It feels like home here. :)

So I'm trying to decide...we're doing three park days. My ideal scenario would be to go ahead with out initial plan for our first day, the 28th, which was DHS in the morning, then Illuminations at night followed by MK EMH, and then use my voucher for FPs at Epcot Wednesday morning. But...clearly, the whole FPs during blackout week is still unclear, and I'd hate to run the risk of not being able to use the voucher at all.

In looking at doconeill's excellent breakdown of what rides the FPs can be used for, Epcot or the MK seem like the best choices for this family--in both DHS and AK, we'd end up with only one ride the whole family was interested in. But...Epcot is having EMH that morning of the 28th, so I'm sure it will be crazy that day, and I'm not sure that getting the FPs for MK and then going to EMH that night at the same park would be terribly productive either. What do you guys think? Any ideas would be very, very welcome.

[Anal Annie]

I feel like I've moved into this thread. It feels like home here. :)

So I'm trying to decide...we're doing three park days. My ideal scenario would be to go ahead with out initial plan for our first day, the 28th, which was DHS in the morning, then Illuminations at night followed by MK EMH, and then use my voucher for FPs at Epcot Wednesday morning. But...clearly, the whole FPs during blackout week is still unclear, and I'd hate to run the risk of not being able to use the voucher at all.

In looking at doconeill's excellent breakdown of what rides the FPs can be used for, Epcot or the MK seem like the best choices for this family--in both DHS and AK, we'd end up with only one ride the whole family was interested in. But...Epcot is having EMH that morning of the 28th, so I'm sure it will be crazy that day, and I'm not sure that getting the FPs for MK and then going to EMH that night at the same park would be terribly productive either. What do you guys think? Any ideas would be very, very welcome.

:confused3 Why is it still unclear about the fast pass redemption?? :confused3 We have 1 castmember saying they won't be allowed 'cuz the guest service managers they asked said so. Meanwhile, you and I BOTH received emails from GAD Support that said while the vouchers could not be used for free park entrance they COULD be used in 1 of the other 2 options? I don't consider that to be unclear at all. I think simply put, this is a different promotion from the birthday thing last year and it works differently to some degree. They apparently changed the rule to mean only no free tix during the blackout period but did not cancel the other options. I have my email and I will be bringing it to use as back-up. But I fully expect to be able to use our vouchers any day that week for either fast passes or figurines. I have called twice and I have the email. I am satisfied with getting the same answer 3 times from 3 different GAD representatives...

We will be there 2 days before the blackout period starts so I will clarify at the Will Call window on Saturday the 27th what will happen starting on Monday. But SHOULD they decide to make up different rules between now & then I will simply plan to use our 3rd voucher for the figurine on the 28th. Ideally I would like to save a couple of the fast pass days for that very busy week though.

[Meteora]

Why is it still unclear about the fast pass redemption?? We have 1 castmember saying they won't be allowed 'cuz the guest service managers they asked said so. Meanwhile, you and I BOTH received emails from GAD Support that said while the vouchers could not be used for free park entrance they COULD be used in 1 of the other 2 options? I don't consider that to be unclear at all.

It's entirely possible that I'm just being paranoid. However, it seems like at least one CM and at least one person who emailed have received contrary information to what you and I received, and I guess I don't entirely trust central guest services--after all, they're not the ones in the park who will ultimately make the decision. According to Cheshire Figment, the people who DO get to make those decisions are operating under a different set of rules.

At any rate, if you have email/PM access when you're on your trip, I would greatly appreciate you passing along any information you receive from guest services on the 27th! The 28th will be decision day for us in terms of whether to use the voucher or save it. I definitely agree that I would rather have FPs during the busy week, but don't want to end up not able to use it at all.

[BDCLF]

Would love if someone could confirm that a COPY of a birth certificate is ok, and not a certified copy.
Also, how early do the vouchers need to be redeemed each day to insure that you can get a fast pass?

[StitchandPooh'sMom]

Would love if someone could confirm that a COPY of a birth certificate is ok, and not a certified copy.
Also, how early do the vouchers need to be redeemed each day to insure that you can get a fast pass?

A copy is fine. You can see the voucher here:

http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2388434

Disney says that Fastpass Exchange cards may not be available after 11 am, but I haven't seen anyone report that they were not able to get them after 11.

[Belleandtinker]

I know this question was probably already answered and I missed it

I can take my voucher, my driver's license and my 10 day pass to the will call window on my first day and upgrade my 10 day pass to a hopper or water park/more (and pay any difference).

[Befferk]

I know this question was probably already answered and I missed it

I can take my voucher, my driver's license and my 10 day pass to the will call window on my first day and upgrade my 10 day pass to a hopper or water park/more (and pay any difference).

Not sure what you're trying to ask for sure, but if you already have your ticket (the 10 day pass) you can upgrade it if you want, but not with your GAD voucher. The GAD voucher can't be used to upgrade an existing ticket. You would have to turn in the voucher for the one day ticket, then upgrade that. Or just use the GAD for the Fastpasses.

[Petraman]

Not sure what you're trying to ask for sure, but if you already have your ticket (the 10 day pass) you can upgrade it if you want, but not with your GAD voucher. The GAD voucher can't be used to upgrade an existing ticket. You would have to turn in the voucher for the one day ticket, then upgrade that. Or just use the GAD for the Fastpasses.

Well said.

You can use the GAD pass as value towards a new purchase but not as value towards any existing ticket.

[DisneyBoundinDec]

doconeill, as someone who benefited from your explanation several days ago, I want to thank you and recognize you for your patience and thoroughness in answering all these questions. I actually think that last post was the clearest yet. You are very kind to help out people again and again. Thanks for all you do on the boards!
YES! thank you.. I have sat here and read this for whole thread for over an hour! lol and I think I have it all squared away.. but I do have a few quesitons.


Let me see if I can break this down a bit more.

YOU have ONE GAD voucher, in your name. You have 4 people total in your group.

You ALL go to the will-call window, with your tickets.

YOU must have a valid photo ID and a valid multi-day ticket with at least 1 day remaining on it. All others must have any valid ticket with at least 1 day remaining on it.

You ask for the Fastpass option.

ALL FOUR of you receive ONE Fastpass Exchange Card EACH (a total of 4 cards).

EACH card can be used up to X total times on attractions in the Donald list, and X total times on attractions in the Daisy list, where X can be any number, but has always been either 2, 3, or 4, with 3 being the most common (and the only number reported since Jan. 1st). So the card is good for X times 2 (i.e. 4, 6 or 8, commonly 6) total uses.

So, with 4 cards, you will likely get a total of 24 uses between the four of you. They are not actually tied to a person. You could give the cards all to one person, and that person could ride all day and never see a standby line.

When the card is placed into a FP kiosk, the kiosk will issue out a single Fastpass, good for one person, with an instant return time - so in essence you get to use the Fastpass line immediately.


Here is my situation. We are going down for a short 2 day trip in June for my son's 7th b-day. Its a surprise, he has no clue. It will be
Me, Dh, DS(7), DS (3), Aunt and cousin.
We have 3 GAD vouchers.. (my aunt and cousin live in florida so they will get their own tickets).
Okay.. here is my questions.. I have seen on here that you need a multi day ticket in order to get the fast pass.. NOW, is a multi day just anything other than a one day??? So we need a 2 day ticket in order to use the GAD FP option?

and, does the person who is redeeming the GAD vouchers for the FP only need to have the multi day ticket? Here would be my senario

I would buy a 2 day pass for me, hubby and DS (3), Buy a 1 day ticket for DS(7),

Use 1 GAD voucher for a day ticket for DS (7) (we will be there for 2 days)

Use 1 GAD voucher for the FP option (either mine or dh's since we will have the multi tickets) for one day at MK for all 6 of us.

Use the last GAD voucher for the FP option for the second day for all 6 of us.

Can DS (7) get the FP's if he doesn't have the mutli day ticket?? just a single ticket? and Which do we get first? redeem for a ticket, then go and redeem the other GAD voucher for the FP's?

I hope this makes sense.. and thank you!

[doconeill]

Here is my situation. We are going down for a short 2 day trip in June for my son's 7th b-day. Its a surprise, he has no clue. It will be
Me, Dh, DS(7), DS (3), Aunt and cousin.
We have 3 GAD vouchers.. (my aunt and cousin live in florida so they will get their own tickets).
Okay.. here is my questions.. I have seen on here that you need a multi day ticket in order to get the fast pass.. NOW, is a multi day just anything other than a one day??? So we need a 2 day ticket in order to use the GAD FP option?

Yes, anything with more than one day on it, or a seasonal or annual pass, will qualify. The exception is "complimentary" tickets (which would say "complimentary" or "comp" on them).

and, does the person who is redeeming the GAD vouchers for the FP only need to have the multi day ticket?

Yes. Everyone else needs just to have a valid ticket (to show that they are going to enter the park that day)

Here would be my senario

I would buy a 2 day pass for me, hubby and DS (3), Buy a 1 day ticket for DS(7),

Use 1 GAD voucher for a day ticket for DS (7) (we will be there for 2 days)

Better - DON'T get a ticket for DS(7) yet. Use the GAD voucher (I assume one of the vouchers is in his name) to get the 1-day ticket and UPGRADE it to 2 days. It will save you $3 (costs $65+tax, vs. $68+tax for another 1-day ticket).

Use 1 GAD voucher for the FP option (either mine or dh's since we will have the multi tickets) for one day at MK for all 6 of us.

Use the last GAD voucher for the FP option for the second day for all 6 of us.

Works...:thumbsup2

Can DS (7) get the FP's if he doesn't have the mutli day ticket?? just a single ticket? and Which do we get first? redeem for a ticket, then go and redeem the other GAD voucher for the FP's?

As mentioned before, only the person redeeming the voucher needs to have the multi-day ticket - everyone else just needs a valid ticket. If you do as I mentioned above, redeem for his ticket FIRST, then redeem for the FP.


I hope this makes sense.. and thank you!

Not a problem :thumbsup2

[DisneyBoundinDec]

SWEET! you rock! ;) this is a short trip, we have another 8 day trip planned in November when its less crowded and I thought the FP option would be better for this short trip, especially in June! its worth the cost of the tickets! :thumbsup2



Yes, anything with more than one day on it, or a seasonal or annual pass, will qualify. The exception is "complimentary" tickets (which would say "complimentary" or "comp" on them).



Yes. Everyone else needs just to have a valid ticket (to show that they are going to enter the park that day)



Better - DON'T get a ticket for DS(7) yet. Use the GAD voucher (I assume one of the vouchers is in his name) to get the 1-day ticket and UPGRADE it to 2 days. It will save you $3 (costs $65+tax, vs. $68+tax for another 1-day ticket).



Works...:thumbsup2



As mentioned before, only the person redeeming the voucher needs to have the multi-day ticket - everyone else just needs a valid ticket. If you do as I mentioned above, redeem for his ticket FIRST, then redeem for the FP.




Not a problem :thumbsup2

[DisneyNeophite]

Would love if someone could confirm that a COPY of a birth certificate is ok, and not a certified copy.
Also, how early do the vouchers need to be redeemed each day to insure that you can get a fast pass?

I used a copy this week with no problems at all

[lark]

This is really great information. Just trying to plan how to coordinate GAD fastpasses and regular fastpasses.

If I'm understanding right, there really would never be any reason to get a special GAD fastpass before you're actually planning on riding. Unlike ordinary ticket fastpass collection, where sometimes you get them or detour from touring to get one, since the GAD fastpass always can be used immediately and even after fastpasses are "sold out" for the day, you remain most flexible if you wait until you want to ride to get one. Maybe the standby line will be short and you won't need one. Maybe you'll have another fastpass already, etc.

Anything I'm missing?

[doconeill]

This is really great information. Just trying to plan how to coordinate GAD fastpasses and regular fastpasses.

If I'm understanding right, there really would never be any reason to get a special GAD fastpass before you're actually planning on riding. Unlike ordinary ticket fastpass collection, where sometimes you get them or detour from touring to get one, since the GAD fastpass always can be used immediately and even after fastpasses are "sold out" for the day, you remain most flexible if you wait until you want to ride to get one. Maybe the standby line will be short and you won't need one. Maybe you'll have another fastpass already, etc.

Anything I'm missing?

Nope. There is no need to get one in advance at all.

[Atotty]

Two Quick Questions--Which would you do?

Going at Thanksgiving. Don't have tickets yet. Four of us. Four GAD vouchers.

A--Buy tickets from ticketmania and use one GAD at each park to get FPs so we don't have to worry if we are going to be able to ride our favorite attractions during busy time.

B--Use all 4 GAD vouchers for tickets and upgrade. Save us $300+

C--Use 3 GAD vouchers for tickets and 1 GAD voucher at DS for FPs because that's the park we think we'll have FP problems in. We love TSM and want to ride more than once. Saves us $240ish on tickets and gets us FPs for hard to get ride.

And second, I know that according to Disney over 600,000 people have already signed up. We don't go til Nov. Is Disney going to stop letting people sign up once 1,000,000 vouchers have been *given* or *redeemed*? If *redeemed* we are probably out of luck anyway.

[doconeill]

Two Quick Questions--Which would you do?

Going at Thanksgiving. Don't have tickets yet. Four of us. Four GAD vouchers.

A--Buy tickets from ticketmania and use one GAD at each park to get FPs so we don't have to worry if we are going to be able to ride our favorite attractions during busy time.

B--Use all 4 GAD vouchers for tickets and upgrade. Save us $300+

C--Use 3 GAD vouchers for tickets and 1 GAD voucher at DS for FPs because that's the park we think we'll have FP problems in. We love TSM and want to ride more than once. Saves us $240ish on tickets and gets us FPs for hard to get ride.

And second, I know that according to Disney over 600,000 people have already signed up. We don't go til Nov. Is Disney going to stop letting people sign up once 1,000,000 vouchers have been *given* or *redeemed*? If *redeemed* we are probably out of luck anyway.

1) The choice is up to you. You'll be going during a busy time, so this does raise the value of the GAD FP significantly, but unless you want to do it on more than one day, you only need to "spend" one voucher on it for everyone.

We're going beginning of December. There will be 6 of us - three will definitely have vouchers. Although it is not necessarily the busiest of times (except for MK that first weekend for the parade taping), we are still thinking of using two vouchers for tickets, and one for FPs. My in-laws may or may not have vouchers, but I'll probably have them use them for their tickets.

2) If you've already signed up for a particular opportunity, or completed it and gotten your voucher, you are safe. According to recent info, Disney is counting the number of people who have properly registered and signed up for an opportunity. How they handle it when they reach 1 million is unknown.

[FlightlessDuck]

Using these instant fastpasses totally changes how someone plans a trip. We will hopefully be doing this in June, and I am totally blown away about the idea that we will have instant fastpasses to get on TSM, TOT, and RnRC.

And since their are four of us, and we are each volunteering, we get fastpasses one day at each park. :dance3:

[Planning fanatic mom]

Using these instant fastpasses totally changes how someone plans a trip. We will hopefully be doing this in June, and I am totally blown away about the idea that we will have instant fastpasses to get on TSM, TOT, and RnRC.

And since their are four of us, and we are each volunteering, we get fastpasses one day at each park. :dance3:

US too!! So excited!! We made our first blanket last night. I think it looks great if I do say so myself.:laughing:

[texfinn]

That raises a question I have been asking myself while reading this thread.

How will the GAD FP vouchers affect your touring plans?

My DD(8) and I will be there towards the end of June. Not the worst summer crowds yet but definitely crowded. We will each have a voucher and get FP for 2 of the 4 days. I am thinking we will use them a DHS and MK but am wondering how to use that with the touring plan. DD is an TOT and RNR junkie so am guessing we will ride both of those rides many many times.

Any thoughts? advice?

Thanks!!!

[DisneyBoundinDec]

Using these instant fastpasses totally changes how someone plans a trip. We will hopefully be doing this in June, and I am totally blown away about the idea that we will have instant fastpasses to get on TSM, TOT, and RnRC.

And since their are four of us, and we are each volunteering, we get fastpasses one day at each park. :dance3:

YES! totally agree. We are going down for a quick 2 day surprise for my sons 7th b-day in June.. (he has no clue).. A Friday and Saturday no less and am sooo going to use 2 of the GAD for Fast Passes those days.. we normally go in Nov, Dec, so we are not use to lines.. yes, I know spoiled.. :lmao: but that's when we like to go and we can while the kids are still little.. I knew the June trip would be torture.. but with the FP.. its money!! :thumbsup2 So worth the cost of the tickets IMO

[Meteora]

That raises a question I have been asking myself while reading this thread.

How will the GAD FP vouchers affect your touring plans?

My DD(8) and I will be there towards the end of June. Not the worst summer crowds yet but definitely crowded. We will each have a voucher and get FP for 2 of the 4 days. I am thinking we will use them a DHS and MK but am wondering how to use that with the touring plan. DD is an TOT and RNR junkie so am guessing we will ride both of those rides many many times.

Any thoughts? advice?

Thanks!!!

I think if you are using the GAD FPs, you should probably consider which rides you want to do that you will not be using the GAD FP for--for instance, in DHS, maybe the Great Movie Ride--and get those out of the way early in the day. Also maybe pick up regular FPs for whatever you want to do that won't be covered by the GAD FPs--so if you want to do 2 rides on RnRC and one on TOT, you might want to get regular FPs for Toy Story Mania, or for a second ride on TOT. And, obviously, be flexible about the GAD FPs. If you are planning to FP something and see that it only has a 10 minute wait time, hop on the standby line and use that FP for something else, or to ride again later.

And, of course, make sure you do your homework on the least crowded days for Epcot and AK, since you won't be using the passes there.

[Planning fanatic mom]

If you use the FP option and UG touring plans, I think that it will cut down on the criss-crossing of the park. Sometimes you are nowhere near a ride and you have to get a FP. Well, now you won't have to walk across the park. You can wait until you get there.

I also agree with the PP. Get the rides done early that don't use FP but can still have a line. In MK, the tea cups come to mind. In DHS, the Great movie ride, in EPCOT, Spaceship Earth, and AK, the 2 big shows; Nemo and FOTLK.

Because we are going in June, I think we will enjoy using these FP and resting during the hottest part of the day back at the resort.

[StitchandPooh'sMom]

That raises a question I have been asking myself while reading this thread.

How will the GAD FP vouchers affect your touring plans?

My DD(8) and I will be there towards the end of June. Not the worst summer crowds yet but definitely crowded. We will each have a voucher and get FP for 2 of the 4 days. I am thinking we will use them a DHS and MK but am wondering how to use that with the touring plan. DD is an TOT and RNR junkie so am guessing we will ride both of those rides many many times.

Any thoughts? advice?

Thanks!!!

We are going to WDW and Universal the end of July. We don't usually go in the summer, so we don't usually have to deal with the heat and crowds. Our plan (I think) is to tour MK the same way we always do - starting at rope drop, collecting FPs as soon as we are able, and getting as much done as possible before the heat and crowds come. We will take a break in the afternoon, then come back for MSEP and fireworks. I plan to use the GAD FPs when we come back in the evening (although I will redeem the voucher in the morning). This will allow us to do some rides before the parade, when typically we would have to wait in lines or use any FPs we had collected earlier in the day.

[texfinn]

Thanks for the tips!!!

I am planning Epcot and AK on days which are tagged as "less crowded" and will do the early morning rope drop and plan there.

I think I am going to build a touring plan at DHS and MK like I would normally do and save the GAD FPs to go back to the "fun" rides later in the day. In the past the plans have kept me from waiting (even in July!) but when we go back to the good rides later for a 2nd go, the waits are terrible.

I really appreciate the advice -- love the DIS!

[jazmyin]

can someone please list the e-mail address you used to get a response about the blackout days starting March 29th. I would like to have an e-mail response in my hand with me when I try to get my fast passes during that busy week.

[DisneyCrazyMom22]

Whew! Just read the whole thread and my mind is a little boggled!:confused: I do have a couple questions/concerns. Our trip will be 3/27-3/31. There are 6 in our party and all have completed GAD and received vouchers.:cheer2: I had read that the vouchers were blacked out starting 3/29 so before reading this thread I was planning to use 3 vouchers for FPs at MK on Sat(3/27) and 3 vouchers for FPs on Sun at DHS. First of all, do they even let you do that? Can we each get 3 special FP cards at each park? Do we need to get back in line each time??

To add to my confusion I read that maybe the FP are not blacked out starting 3/31(could I get that email address too?) so maybe I should use vouchers at each park.

Thanks everyone for your help, this thread is very informative.

[doconeill]

Whew! Just read the whole thread and my mind is a little boggled!:confused: I do have a couple questions/concerns. Our trip will be 3/27-3/31. There are 6 in our party and all have completed GAD and received vouchers.:cheer2: I had read that the vouchers were blacked out starting 3/29 so before reading this thread I was planning to use 3 vouchers for FPs at MK on Sat(3/27) and 3 vouchers for FPs on Sun at DHS. First of all, do they even let you do that? Can we each get 3 special FP cards at each park? Do we need to get back in line each time??

To add to my confusion I read that maybe the FP are not blacked out starting 3/31(could I get that email address too?) so maybe I should use vouchers at each park.

Thanks everyone for your help, this thread is very informative.

Unfortunately, the information is still conflicting (no surprise, we're talking about Disney), but we seem to be inching more and more towards options being available during the block-out dates. Unfortunately, we'll likely not know for absolute 100% certainty until the first such date arrives :(

As for getting more than one a day, Some have had success getting two. I don't know if anyone has tried three...you are more than likely going to get a very quizzical look from the CM at least. :)

And man, thatsalotta FPs...

[lenshanem]

OK, I think I need some help!

We were planning on using our vouchers for an extra day this summer once our AP expires, but now I'm thinking we might try and use it for fastpasses instead during spring break if indeed the blackout dates don't apply.
Can anyone post or PM the email address you used to get confirmation on this? (Thank you!)

So I keep reading after 11:00 AM fastpasses might not be available. Are you guaranteed them before 11? I'm asking because we are arriving the day before Easter and I know it will be very crowded. We have a couple mornings with character breakfasts and I'm not quite sure how early we'll make it to the parks.

Also, I'm correct in that even if the fastpasses are out for say Soarin, we can still use our fastpass card for that ride? So we could actually go later in the day?

The time window is immediate, correct?

Anyone have a list of AK rides?

If we can use these spring break it would be worth skipping an extra day later this summer after our APs expire I think. We have four vouchers so we could actually get one for each of the parks.

Thanks for any help!