Anyone thinking of changing their dates to AVOID the DDP free promo?

[FINFAN]

We had several reasons for August, special celebrations etc., but were mostly hoping to have a bit lighter crowds. NOW ....we are not exactly prime candidates for Free DDP...we tend to graze thru the day, not big meal eaters at one sitting, especially in the summer. Not that we can't drop a significant amt of $$$$ over a trip, but you get my drift. Now, during our dates the DDP Visa promo will be going on making TS restaurants harder to get seated at, in general, all food areas will be crowded based on folks wanted the plan. We are seriously thinking about changing our dates to sooner if we can arrange resort prices to be decent...anyone else? We an still go on our orig times, and not do DDP...but we are afraid of availability. I have ADR'S made, but way more than usual just to make sure we have a place to eat! I don't know how I am going to like being that restricted...if we see a short line for a ride, show etc., we like feeling more flexible than having to deal with ADR's....help!

Pam

 

[Simba's Mom]

I know I can't change my dates-one of the disadvantages of flying, non-refundable tickets. Otherwise, I'd consider it and not go in September. Since I've got an AP, free dining won't help me. Whereas I thought I had ample time to decide when/where to go which day, already I feel pressure to hurry up and make up my mind so I can make ADRs and not be stuck with no where to eat. Rush! Rush! Rush! I've gotta admit, my reaction to this free dining in September is not positive.

 

[DeterminedOne]

We would like to, but just don't see how it could work. We can't go before August, don't want to go in August so that leaves September. And the only reason we have to go in September is to not miss the 50th. But trust me, we've certainly considered it!

 

[NC State]

We enjoyed the free dinning last year; however, we're planning to go this year in late October. We're planning to take my parents for their first trip to Disney. We thought about it but we really want them to enjoy it with cooler temps and less crowds. Last year, at times, it was busy. We will keep the October date this year; however, next year when it's just me and my husband, and they offer it again, we will be changing the date with everyone else.

 

[Allison]

Actually, the popularity of the dining plan whether free or paid has made ADR's a necessity anyway. So, I don't know that changing dates will have that big of an effect on the ability to walk into a table service restaurant and get a table without an ADR. That's tough to do these days no matter what.

 

[MareSINY]

I was there last year during the free dining promo. We went the last week of September and had a blast. The crowds weren't bad until our last day, which was the first day of MNSSHP and Epcot's Food & Wine Festival.

What I really don't understand is why you wouldn't take advantage of the free dining, even if you don't eat a lot, you still have to eat, don't you? Why pay for meals when Disney is willing to pay for them for you? It really is a great deal and one I'd jump on in a heart beat if I didn't already have a trip planned for early December.