Will free dining affect attendance levels?

[pandora174]

I was thinking of going starting 9/9 which is after the Labor Day weekend. I'm hoping even with the free dining that it'll still be lower crowd levels. I think they may have limited availabilty with this new plan at least that's what I've read so far. We just have to keep our fingers crossed that there are no hurricanes !

 

[TDC Nala]

I am paying for the dining plan through DVC over Labor Day weekend (I don't qualify for free dining) and made my ADRs today before the influx of free dining plan people. I wouldn't worry about the crowds in the parks, but I would definitely worry about the restaurants.

If you are traveling during the free dining period, you'll be much happier if you plan and book your ADRs ASAP.

 

[Densgirl]

We went last year the 25th of Sept to the 30th. Only the 30th started to get busy at Epcot. Almost everything was a walk on. Especially if you are there at opening. In the first hours one morning at DS we rode TOT and RNR 3 times each. Soarin was probably the only definite wait each day. You'll have a great time.

 

[cobbler]

I can tell you that the last week of September/first week of October was absolutely PACKED last year, as a result of the free dining promotion....many families with school-aged children. Here's why:

1. Fall Break throughout much of the southern states. This year my older son is out from 9/29-10/16, and my younger son is out from 10/5-10/16. Many school systems have similar schedules in September & October.

2. Please forgive me for not knowing which holiday, but there is also a Jewish holiday that many schools in the country dismiss a few days for. I know we talked to several people last year that brought families at that time because the kids were missing school.

3. And finally, many people will change dates to save the money. period.

There will be people that can't or won't go at that time because of school, but please don't think the numbers won't change that much.

ADRs will be IMPOSSIBLE to get at the last minute, too.

This was our expirence last year too. I already hear reports about people changing their dates for the free dining. I think it will have a slight impact. And DEFINATLY at restaurants.