Help! Why does the pin event at EPCOT cost $90? It was free in 2004!!

[jwann]

Can someone help me understand what's going on?? Two years ago, my family was at Epcot the weekend after Labor Day and happened upon this Family Pin Gathering event. As far as I could tell, it was free. We walked right in. There were fun pin exchange games for everyone, special pins just for the weekend, and a huge space for the serious traders. Now, pin trading is a big part of our vacation but I wouldn't say we are hard-core pin traders. BUT we LOVED that event - so much fun!

So, this year, we are also going to Epcot the weekend after Labor Day. I just read there is a pin event then as well but it cost $90 per person. Huh?! Why? Can anyone shed some light on this mystery for me?

 

[daber]

It wasn't free two years ago. You probably "stumbled" upon it on Sunday PM, which is when it opens to the public. I think that year the cost was $50. The price has been going up every year.

 

[Figment2]

Daber is absolutely correct! The pin event has never been free however Sunday after Noon time it opens to the public.

Cyn

 

[jwann]

Thanks fellow DISers!
You're right, we "stumbled" upon it Sunday afternoon!!

 

[Cheshire Figment]

Here is more information on the event. One you start looking at all the detail, and what you will be receiving, you should be able to see the value. By public day everything worth while is gone, and the games with giveaways on not run on Public Day.

 

[tearawayface]

$90 is actually a pretty good deal when you look at it..

you get 2 meal vouchers ($15 each) that takes you down to 60

as I remember it last year each resort gave you a free pin (WDW,DLR,HK,Disney Auctions,Disney Shopping), and then I think there was 2 free gift pins...so all total you got close to 10 free pins for your money...not to mention the chance to trade for the new lanyard series pins..