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Theme Park Secrets Getting Mailed to Select Disney World Fans

The back of Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World Resort
Credit: Ed Aguila, Inside the Magic

Disney World has long been the ultimate destination for fans of the House of Mouse, drawing millions to its expansive 25,000-acre resort in Orlando, Florida. But this holiday season, Disney is sweetening the deal for its most devoted fans: Annual Passholders. In a charming and unexpected twist, Disney is sending out a unique perk to these loyal guests—one that’s sure to make the season even more magical.

The Walt Disney World entrance in Orlando, Florida

Credit: Inside the Magic

According to recent reports, Disney has begun mailing out an exclusive recipe set to its Passholders just in time for the holidays. The package, wrapped in festive Disney-themed gift paper, contains recipes that bring the flavors of the parks right into fans’ kitchens.

The set includes instructions for beloved Disney treats like Jack Jack’s Num Num Cookies from Hollywood Studios, Chef Mickey’s classic Sugar Cookies from Disney’s Contemporary Resort, the decadent Tres Leches cake found in EPCOT, and, of course, the viral beignets from the Port Orleans Resort—French Quarter. This thoughtful touch has already stirred excitement among Disney fans, with many eagerly checking their mailboxes.

But while these charming perks bring joy, Disney World is currently grappling with some challenges. Despite large crowds during peak holiday periods like Thanksgiving and Christmas, attendance numbers have reportedly been lower than expected overall.

Magic Kingdom crowds at Disney World

Credit: Inside the Magic

The reasons for this decline are multifaceted. Rising ticket prices, coupled with higher costs for on-site accommodations, may have deterred some visitors. Additionally, guests often find it necessary to purchase extra add-ons, such as the Lightning Lane passes, to make the most of their time at the parks. These rising expenses have sparked some frustration among fans.

Disney’s earnings calls have acknowledged these attendance dips, suggesting that the trend could continue. However, Disney seems determined to use its vast library of beloved Intellectual Properties (IPs) to draw in crowds, even amidst rising costs.

Yet, many feel the company isn’t fully recognizing just how financially burdensome a Disney vacation has become. One recent move that fueled online discussions was the increase in Annual Pass prices at the end of October. The hikes ranged from $30 to $100 depending on the pass, with the top-tier Incredi-Pass now priced at $1,549—up from $1,449.

Even with these price increases, Disney’s Annual Pass program continues to be popular, largely thanks to its array of exclusive perks. Passholders enjoy benefits like in-park discounts, limited-edition merchandise, and early access to events. The holiday baking set is just the latest example of Disney’s effort to reward its most dedicated fans.

Walt Disney World Annual Passholder logo

Credit: Disney

For those curious, Disney currently offers four pass options: the Pixie Dust Pass and Pirate Pass, both limited to Florida residents; the Sorcerer Pass, available to Florida residents and Disney Vacation Club (DVC) members; and the Incredi-Pass, which is open to all guests. These passes, despite their increased cost, remain a draw for those looking to experience the parks year-round.

So, if you’re a Disney Annual Passholder, be sure to watch your mailbox this holiday season!

Are you one of the lucky fans to receive this exclusive gift? 

About Thomas Hitchen

When he’s not thinking about the Magic Kingdom, Thomas is usually reading a book, becoming desperately obsessed with fictional characters, or baking something delicious (his favorite is chocolate cake -- to bake and to eat). He's a dreamer and grew up on Mulan saving the world, Jim Hawkins soaring through the stars, and Padmé Amidala fighting a Nexu. At the Parks, he loves to ride Everest, stroll down Main Street with an overstuffed pin lanyard around his neck, and eat as many Mickey-shaped ice creams as possible. His favorite character is Han Solo (yes, he did shoot first), and his favorite TV show is Buffy the Vampire Slayer except when it's One Tree Hill. He loves sandy beach walks, forest hikes, and foodie days out in the Big City. Thomas lives in England, UK, with his fiancée, baby, and their dog, a Border Collie called Luna.

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