When/how can we get free dining? Code or what?

[connie254]

Assuming free dining happens this year, how can we get it once we have a reservation? When we call, do we just say "add free dining" or what? Can we change resorts to get free dining(upgrade)?

 

[Seahunt]

When it is announced you will have to call WDW and ask for it (it is not automatically given) UNLESS you booked originally with a TA and then they would have to handle it for you.

You would just tell them your reservation number and ask that they check it to see if you can switch to the Free Dining offer, code ### (whatever code they use will be posted here on the DIS). At that time the CM will check your res for you to see if the new Free Dining package is available for your dates/resort. If not, you might have to switch dates to get that resort, so keep that in mind and have a second/third resort choice ready to have them check, especially if you can't change your dates.

Also remember that in the past the Free Dining package usually required rack rate (no discount) on the room, at least a one day MYW ticket for everyone in the room, and everyone had to be on the same package. There are usually other deals going on at the same time, so make sure this will be the cheapest way to go by penciling it out before calling. Sometimes (especially at Deluxes/or with AP holders) if you already had a discount deal booked that it might already be actually cheaper than switching to the Free Dining package, depending on resort, number of people, etc. so be sure you are saving $$$. Also note that the dining package no longer includes tips, so figure those in to your plans too.

If all goes well the CM will switch your res over and you will get a credit for the difference (unless you owe them by changing resorts,etc.). If you booked by a TA they will go through the same steps -and, if history repeats itself, if your TA books a lot of Disney vacations they will be slammed as soon as it is announced and you might not hear back from them right away as they will be checking all the res they have already made for the dates plus all the new calls for new bookings, so you'll need lots of patience!