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Disney World Ends Returning Passholder Freebie Before 2025 Closes

Disney World Passholders are used to changes, but every now and then, a shift hits a little harder than expected. That’s exactly what’s happening as a popular Annual Passholder freebie prepares to leave once again. Fans who love collecting Passholder magnets have been making their way to Disney’s Animal Kingdom to grab a few beloved designs before they disappear for the rest of the year.

Tree of Life at Disney's Animal Kingdom
Credit: Scarlet Sappho, Flickr

In November, Disney quietly brought back three magnets that originally debuted in 2024 — Stitch, Hei Hei, and the Timon-and-Pumba duo. Each one had become surprisingly hard to find, which is why the brief re-release sparked such a rush. The magnets were available only at Discovery Trading Company, and from the moment word spread, Passholders started lining up to get their hands on the characters they missed the first time around.

But this little comeback always had an expiration date. Disney confirmed these magnets will stop being offered on December 19, which means Passholders only have a short time left to grab them. With no additional release planned for the remainder of 2025, this cut-off has created a last-minute scramble for collectors who want to finish out their sets.

For longtime Passholders, magnets have become more than just freebies — they’re little symbols of Disney memories, the kind you can proudly display at home or on your car. They don’t require reservations, extra purchases, or jumping through hoops. You simply show up, enjoy your day, and leave with a souvenir that marks your place in the community.

Left image: Hand holding a Walt Disney World annual passholder sticker featuring Louis the alligator with a white geometric dome background. Right image: Hand holding a passholder sticker featuring Minnie Mouse, set against vibrant flowers.
Credit: Disney Dining

Disney hasn’t ended the magnet tradition entirely, just this temporary return. New designs for 2026 are still expected, although the company hasn’t revealed any themes or characters yet. Passholders will likely be watching closely for early-year announcements.

While this particular perk is going away for now, Passholders still have access to a variety of benefits that help soften the loss. From room discounts across select Disney Resorts Collection hotels to free standard theme park parking, the Annual Pass comes with several built-in savings opportunities. Dining discounts, merchandise deals, recreational offers, and special event price reductions are also available throughout the year.

Walt Disney World Resort Annual Passholders with Pluto at EPCOT
Credit: Disney

So yes, the Stitch, Hei Hei, and Timon-and-Pumba magnets may be going back into the vault, but the heart of the Passholder program remains strong — and there’s plenty to look forward to as Disney prepares for another big year in 2026.

Brittni Ward

Brittni is a Disney and Universal fan; one of her favorite things at both parks is collecting popcorn buckets. While at Disney World Resort, Brittni meets the princesses and rides Kilimanjaro Safaris. At Universal, Brittni enjoys the Minions and watching Animal Actors on Location! When not at Disney World Resort or Universal Orlando, Brittni spends time with her family and pets.

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