Each year since 2005 Disney has offered a short period of time during their less busy season where you can book the dining plan for free when you pay rack rate for a room. This year the program runs from Aug 24 - Sept 20. The time to book the plan was from April 7 - June 22 I believe. I am staying at a value resort for $82 a night with free dining.
I am jealous... I will be at WDW for the first two days of free dining. I couldn't get the package because my son has high school orientation the 26th! BUMMER. Oh well, at least we will be there!