Disney Cuts After Hours Event Price for Passholders

[Accident]

Frankly, I'm kind of surprised at the number of people who are find the $75 price point to be "so much more reasonable". I guess I can see that in comparison to $150 it seems reasonable, but compared to e-ticket nights in 2004 for $12 (which would be $16 adjusted for inflation), $75 still seems pretty ridiculous to me. If you throw in 3 ice cream treats, I might be willing to pay $25. The only time I could see doing this is if I were a DVC member without park tickets.

This is what is great about Disney, they have options for everyone. As you mention, there is a situation that you would pay. It makes sense for some people to go in at 150 and others at 75.. I suspect if they extend it and as word or mouth grows, they can sell out at 150 but it was advertised horribly (and still is).

 

[AngiTN]

Frankly, I'm kind of surprised at the number of people who are find the $75 price point to be "so much more reasonable". I guess I can see that in comparison to $150 it seems reasonable, but compared to e-ticket nights in 2004 for $12 (which would be $16 adjusted for inflation), $75 still seems pretty ridiculous to me. If you throw in 3 ice cream treats, I might be willing to pay $25. The only time I could see doing this is if I were a DVC member without park tickets.

I'm equally surprised by the number of people who are so very negative about every decision Disney makes any more
Not directed at you, just in response to your comment. I am finding an overall increase in negativity.
Makes me wonder just why they continue to vacation there when it seems Disney can't do anything to please them.

 

[Kimberly9701]

This is what is great about Disney, they have options for everyone. As you mention, there is a situation that you would pay. It makes sense for some people to go in at 150 and others at 75.. I suspect if they extend it and as word or mouth grows, they can sell out at 150 but it was advertised horribly (and still is).

Do you live in Florida? (maybe wrongly assuming that you do since you have APs and are attending for the second time) I'm a former South Floridian and even down there would be billboards containing Disney ads for AP Florida resident discounts, or just WDW in general, and plenty of commercials directed at FL residents. Are they doing any of that kind of advertising for this event?

 

[maryj11]

I think it would be fun, if they lower the price for everyone that would be great.

 

[Anal Annie]

This makes a lot of sense to me simply because AP holders could have gotten in on the first few included hours. Now they will see the 3 hours instead of 6-7 at 75 so only 25 extra an hour. With no discount it just made no sense for AP since they were double paying.

Just wondering do AP holders get a discount on the holiday parties?

Historically I believe that yes, both DVC and AP holders get discounts on the parties. http://www.disboards.com/threads/of...y-halloween-party-trick-or-treat-fun.3484819/

I am both a DVC member and an AP holder and am planning on renewing our AP's this summer when they expire (the DVC renewal rate is a lot more affordable than buying again new later). I am of the opinion that we already pay Disney enough money every year (since we go 2-3 times) so even tho the 50% discount is a nice gesture it's still a tad pricey and we probably still wouldn't take 'em up on it. Back in the day, when our DS was younger we might have. But NOW DS is a freshman in (private) college so our budget has changed DRASTICALLY. Cuts have to be made when you have giant tuition bills coming on a regular basis. We skipped our first chance last fall to attend MVMCP because we just didn't feel like we should splurge that much. DH and I are going again in Sept. for F&W tho and this time I WOULD LIKE to go to MNSSHP if they don't raise the prices more than say 5-10% over last years price. (I had read that MNSSHP was better than MVMCP.) If they go crazy on the price increase tho we probably won't go just based on principle. We have limits to how far they can push us. It's really irrelevant right now tho as there are no special event dates announced yet for our trip in June. Just saying that we probably wouldn't bite if there were.

 

[ashleyrm]

I'm equally surprised by the number of people who are so very negative about every decision Disney makes any more
Not directed at you, just in response to your comment. I am finding an overall increase in negativity.
Makes me wonder just why they continue to vacation there when it seems Disney can't do anything to please them.

I understand what you are saying and that you are saying it's not directed at me. However, I will respond from my POV. I've been going to Disney regularly since 1993 or so. Kid did the CP. Been an AP holder for the past 5 years or so. As you can see, I've been on these boards since 1999. Given all that background, I feel that I have a pretty good handle on Disney "in past days" versus Disney "current", and I truly think a lot of the negativity is well deserved. There are a few things about which I feel positive - I'm happy that they are continuing to expand offerings at DHS and AK. I'm glad they overhauled Disney Springs. I'm thrilled that they got rid of that hat.

OTOH, I really feel that the pricing has gotten out of control. When they raise QS prices 3 times in, what was it, 6 weeks. When they double the price for the MK dessert party with not much more offered. Increased the price of the Villains thing at DHS. Added the PhotoPass to the AP - not as an option, but as a "here, you have to have this even if you don't want it. Not even going to get into the mess that is FastPass+ and what is has done to the wait times of attractions that have traditionally been walk ons.

I know I am leaving out a massive number of other things that have decreased my love of WDW. Does it mean I won't go? No. I have two trips scheduled this year and am going to DLR next week. I am missing F&G for the first time in 4 years as I just saw no reason to go. Again, all this is my opinion and you just caught me at a good time.

 

[ashleyrm]

I can't see how they would possibly add this for $25 and maintain the staff to do so. People also have more money now than in 2004. And you also have an entire new generation with disposable income. A generation who was not hit by the recession.

Hm. I don't think economic facts support that at all. Real Median Household Income adjusted for inflation is lower now than it was in 2004. Not saying that people don't like to spend more of their money on vacation, but they definitely don't have "more money".

I'm also aware that the $25 price point is not realistic. It was just for comparative purposes.

 

[Kimberly9701]

I understand what you are saying and that you are saying it's not directed at me. However, I will respond from my POV. I've been going to Disney regularly since 1993 or so. Kid did the CP. Been an AP holder for the past 5 years or so. As you can see, I've been on these boards since 1999. Given all that background, I feel that I have a pretty good handle on Disney "in past days" versus Disney "current", and I truly think a lot of the negativity is well deserved. There are a few things about which I feel positive - I'm happy that they are continuing to expand offerings at DHS and AK. I'm glad they overhauled Disney Springs. I'm thrilled that they got rid of that hat.

OTOH, I really feel that the pricing has gotten out of control. When they raise QS prices 3 times in, what was it, 6 weeks. When they double the price for the MK dessert party with not much more offered. Increased the price of the Villains thing at DHS. Added the PhotoPass to the AP - not as an option, but as a "here, you have to have this even if you don't want it. Not even going to get into the mess that is FastPass+ and what is has done to the wait times of attractions that have traditionally been walk ons.

I know I am leaving out a massive number of other things that have decreased my love of WDW. Does it mean I won't go? No. I have two trips scheduled this year and am going to DLR next week. I am missing F&G for the first time in 4 years as I just saw no reason to go. Again, all this is my opinion and you just caught me at a good time.

I have not been on these boards long at all. But I have been going to WDW since 1978 (although my only accounts of that time are from the photos and stories that my parents have told me), After 18 years as going as a family I also went annually with friends for F&W. Once I took my niece and nephew in June, years ago, I didn't follow any sort of "plan", and after that I vowed never to go during the summer months again.
After my son was born, and after a few things in my personal life changed, I took 5 years off from WDW, just didn't feel like I was ready to tackle it alone with my son. I had countless trips that I planned but never followed thru on during those years.
Finally, when he turned 5, I said "This is the year!! We're going to Disney World!" I followed thru and we went.
The ONLY thing different that I noticed during our 10 days was this--WDW is COMPLETELY different trip as a mother then it is as a child or adult only trip. Maybe I am wearing rose colored glasses, maybe not. But I'm hoping our next trip will be just as magical as the last...it should be even more so since I feel I am better prepared this time.

 

[ashleyrm]

I have not been on these boards long at all. But I have been going to WDW since 1978 (although my only accounts of that time are from the photos and stories that my parents have told me), After 18 years as going as a family I also went annually with friends for F&W. Once I took my niece and nephew in June, years ago, I didn't follow any sort of "plan", and after that I vowed never to go during the summer months again.
After my son was born, and after a few things in my personal life changed, I took 5 years off from WDW, just didn't feel like I was ready to tackle it alone with my son. I had countless trips that I planned but never followed thru on during those years.
Finally, when he turned 5, I said "This is the year!! We're going to Disney World!" I followed thru and we went.
The ONLY thing different that I noticed during our 10 days was this--WDW is COMPLETELY different trip as a mother then it is as a child or adult only trip. Maybe I am wearing rose colored glasses, maybe not. But I'm hoping our next trip will be just as magical as the last...it should be even more so since I feel I am better prepared this time.

I still cry every time I watch the welcome show. I still take my "kids" even now that they are 27 and 30. Hopefully, I'll have grandchildren some day and be able to take them too. I love Disney and always will. That being said, I think it should be okay to voice my "negative thoughts" along with the positive.

 

[Paula Sedley-Burke]

I think it's neat these offerings are available. Providing there are still other nights open as non event nights which there are for those who don't want to or are at max budget. Like the party nights the parks close at 7pm to day guests. But the next night might be without a party.

If you want an event and can afford it great, we have enjoyed many MNSSHP my personal favorite. I recall they use to offer Pirate and Princess party around this time in May/June? What's the difference between that and this event. Least they aren't shutting the parks at 7pm. Plus you get exclusive rides and less people I would think. Those parties were fun though!

It's all about choice. As long as there is plenty for everyone I am happy. I would rather people book exclusive events than book throwaway pitches at Fort Wilderness to get MBs and FP+. That takes it away from those on a budget or wanting to genuinely pitch there.

 

[Kimberly9701]

Hm. I don't think economic facts support that at all. Real Median Household Income adjusted for inflation is lower now than it was in 2004. Not saying that people don't like to spend more of their money on vacation, but they definitely don't have "more money".

I'm also aware that the $25 price point is not realistic. It was just for comparative purposes.

I'll agree to disagree with you on this. Unemployment is lower now. Most families have bounced back from 2001 and even from '06-'07. Most importantly- Gen Y is now the largest segment of the population- and they have money to spend, and do.

 

[Kimberly9701]

I still cry every time I watch the welcome show. I still take my "kids" even now that they are 27 and 30. Hopefully, I'll have grandchildren some day and be able to take them too. I love Disney and always will. That being said, I think it should be okay to voice my "negative thoughts" along with the positive.

I totally had tears in my eyes when watching wishes with my son. He laughed at me. But it just felt like I had come full circle. Such an incredible moment!!

 

[Paula Sedley-Burke]

I totally had tears in my eyes when watching wishes with my son. He laughed at me. But it just felt like I had come full circle. Such an incredible moment!!

I defy any human to get through wishes dry eyed...

 

[Accident]

Do you live in Florida? (maybe wrongly assuming that you do since you have APs and are attending for the second time) I'm a former South Floridian and even down there would be billboards containing Disney ads for AP Florida resident discounts, or just WDW in general, and plenty of commercials directed at FL residents. Are they doing any of that kind of advertising for this event?

We JUST moved here.. We've had an AP long before moving here though depending on when it would save us money or not.. Sometimes only 1 person with it for the discounts and savings overall, other times we're in the parks enough for everyone to have one and save money.. I do have an emotional attachment to a couple past trips that were completely empty like this so we would have come down just for this event if we didn't move here..

Advertising before we moved (nyc), it's mainly some tv advertisements that are semi-vague that it's disney.. more "time to come back" type ads.. In the WDW property area it's more focuses on local things but never seen this event in an ad. The amount of local news coverage is interesting now they we live here.. It's also nice back in nyc is was more about how the world is ending.. down here it's about how to have fun..

 

[Accident]

I think it's neat these offerings are available. Providing there are still other nights open as non event nights which there are for those who don't want to or are at max budget. Like the party nights the parks close at 7pm to day guests. But the next night might be without a party..

They didn't change the regular park schedule or remove EMH. This is just 1 night where it's opened even later with limited access. A day visitor can stay but the only thing you can do is walk around.. It's not like a party where you are pushed out before the parade and special fireworks happen.. This is all after hours without disney altering anything..

 

[Kimberly9701]

We JUST moved here.. We've had an AP long before moving here though depending on when it would save us money or not.. Sometimes only 1 person with it for the discounts and savings overall, other times we're in the parks enough for everyone to have one and save money.. I do have an emotional attachment to a couple past trips that were completely empty like this so we would have come down just for this event if we didn't move here..

Advertising before we moved (nyc), it's mainly some tv advertisements that are semi-vague that it's disney.. more "time to come back" type ads.. In the WDW property area it's more focuses on local things but never seen this event in an ad. The amount of local news coverage is interesting now they we live here.. It's also nice back in nyc is was more about how the world is ending.. down here it's about how to have fun..

Completely agree with the difference in local news! I lived in Boca Raton and then the island of Palm Beach for 17 years as an adult. Our news was more about the latest Botox procedure, local places to enjoy, a new restaurant opening, or new places to travel..Now living in Cincinnati it is more about shootings and heroin epidemics. So different.

 

[Paula Sedley-Burke]

They didn't change the regular park schedule or remove EMH. This is just 1 night where it's opened even later with limited access. A day visitor can stay but the only thing you can do is walk around.. It's not like a party where you are pushed out before the parade and special fireworks happen.. This is all after hours without disney altering anything..

Even better! Thank you for the information. Well if you are on limited time or just fancy riding all the rides at night which I have to say is awesome it's $75 well spent if you can get a discount as an AP/DVC member.

 

[ashleyrm]

I'll agree to disagree with you on this. Unemployment is lower now. Most families have bounced back from 2001 and even from '06-'07. Most importantly- Gen Y is now the largest segment of the population- and they have money to spend, and do.

You can disagree, but I can show you the numbers. One's personal situation does not reflect the US or global economy.

https://research.stlouisfed.org/fred2/series/MEHOINUSA672N

 

[AngiTN]

I still cry every time I watch the welcome show. I still take my "kids" even now that they are 27 and 30. Hopefully, I'll have grandchildren some day and be able to take them too. I love Disney and always will. That being said, I think it should be okay to voice my "negative thoughts" along with the positive.

They played the Welcome Show music while I was on hold booking a tour yesterday. I started balling right here at my desk at work.

As for negative/positive of course it's ok. I'm not positive about 100% of what they do but I will say it's the exception when I find something negative, not the norm. When I read all negative from someone (there are folks here that are all negative all the time) I am struck with the thought "why are you still going if it makes you so negative and you are so unhappy"

 

[MariMama]

I can't see how they would possibly add this for $25 and maintain the staff to do so. People also have more money now than in 2004. And you also have an entire new generation with disposable income. A generation who was not hit by the recession.

Facts don't support that supposition at all, especially after the recession of 2008 that we are still dealing with as a country.