Cam someone explain free dining

[littlejen22]

Is it something you get an exclusive offer or general public? How can you get on mailing list? And do they usually offer in December? Last one, is it % or free dining usually?

 

[chocovrdmicears]

Is it something you get an exclusive offer or general public? How can you get on mailing list? And do they usually offer in December? Last one, is it % or free dining usually?

Sometimes it is an exclusive offer you can get via an PIN code. (No one knows how or why they send out PIN code offers. Best bet is to get on WDW mailing list by creating a profile on their website. Still no guarantee. )
Historically they offer it to the general public during certain times of the year. There isn't a mailing list for this..you just have to keep your eyes open - typically you will see some buzz about it here a few days or weeks before hand. When they do release it to the public, you will find the dates/details of it under the *Special Offers* area on the WDW site. There are no set times they offer it, but historically they do offer it the end of the summer (hurricane season). Basically they release it to fill rooms during slow times..however they have been know to extend it. Here is link to Mousesavers that shows when particular offers have been released.
http://www.mousesavers.com/historical-information-on-walt-disney-world-resort-discounts/

You get Free Dining (100% free) - BUT you have to pay rack rate for your hotel. You cannot combine discounts. You really need to run the numbers to see if Free Dining or a Room Discount works better for your family.

 

[chocovrdmicears]

Oh - and in order to qualify for Free Dining you MUST book a package through Disney = Room + Tickets + Dining.

 

[melissafox18]

Everything above is correct. I would add that it is free dining but for your table service restaurants, you have to pay for tip which depending on your length of stay could be over $100.

In comparison to a room discount, free dining almost always wins out unless you are a party of 2 adults staying in a deluxe resort, then the discounts come pretty close.