How Does FD affect ADR?

[Asnell]

It seems like FD would make it harder to get ADRs, when everyone's trying to use their credits. Is this the case?

What time of year is FD typically offered?

 

[jenjersnap]

Yes, it does make it much harder. I am completely bummed that they are releasing FD dates for all of the fall at once right before my 180+10 starts which is going to make it so much harder (and I am paying for my dining plan). Usually the October-December dates become available in the summer.

Looks like this year's FD dates will be, according to black562's thread in the resort discount forum:

The likely dates included are:
August 31 - October 3
October 26 - November 1
November 9 - November 20
December 12 - December 23

 

[DisneyDiana!]

Yes, it does make it much harder. I am completely bummed that they are releasing FD dates for all of the fall at once right before my 180+10 starts which is going to make it so much harder

That's absolutely how I feel. I hope they only release the Summer dates.

 

[jezebel73]

I was happy I could book my fall trip now and not worry about whether or not free dining would be happening, but I agree it will make ADRs more difficult. In the past, I've booked free dining for the fall when it opened in July/August and booked the ADRs within that week after booking - well past the 180 day mark - and still gotten all or almost all of what I wanted including character meals (there are always a handful that are really tough even at 180).

Keep in mind with the FD dates that only the check in date has to fall in that range, so free diners can be there up to 2 weeks past when a period ends! Basically figure the entire fall will be tougher to find a meal...

 

[TiggerTrigger]

Free dining has a huge impact on ADR availability. I'm personally holding out for a room discount. We're checking in about 7 days after the end of one free dining window and 2 days before the start of another. While I'm sure we'll be competing with some people who either split their stay or are starting their trip far enough before ours to qualify and carry it through...I'm hoping that it makes 180+10 at least a little bit easier.

 

[jenjersnap]

Free dining has a huge impact on ADR availability. I'm personally holding out for a room discount. We're checking in about 7 days after the end of one free dining window and 2 days before the start of another. While I'm sure we'll be competing with some people who either split their stay or are starting their trip far enough before ours to qualify and carry it through...I'm hoping that it makes 180+10 at least a little bit easier.

I re-arranged my dates to maximize my opportunities (and added to my total vacation dates too, LOL) so now my booking window opens the same time frame as yours (I bet we are checking in the same date! ). My kid wants a chance at BOG and the Dessert Party...we may have to stay two weeks to do it but, darn it, I am going to get into those two places!