There’s a bit of unexpected magic unfolding at EPCOT this summer—and unless you’re a Walt Disney World Annual Passholder, you’re going to miss it. As part of this year’s V.I.Passholder Summer Days celebration, Disney has launched a character experience that’s both rare and exclusive. It’s not listed in your app, it won’t appear on park maps, and you won’t hear Cast Members talking it up like other events. That’s because this meet-and-greet is intentionally secretive—and it’s just for a select group of guests.
From now through July 31, 2025, Passholders can make their way to the Germany Pavilion and find something that’s become increasingly hard to come by in the parks: a hidden gem. Tucked inside Der Teddybar, a cozy little shop typically known for plush toys and teddy bears, is a character greeting you won’t find anywhere else. The catch? Disney hasn’t said who the character is. All they’ve revealed is that a “beloved Disney pal” will be available to meet guests daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.—no reservations, no virtual queue, no Lightning Lane.
It’s a refreshing twist in a park that’s seen major changes lately. As EPCOT continues its transformation with new attractions, reimagined pavilions, and a focus on big-budget entertainment, this quiet, intimate addition feels like a nod to a different era—when discovering something special was part of the fun. The setting of Der Teddybar adds to the charm. Its quaint, storybook style feels like the perfect home for a surprise character, and its out-of-the-way location makes the experience feel even more exclusive.
Disney hasn’t given any hints about which character is greeting guests, which has led to plenty of speculation online. Could it be Duffy the Disney Bear making a long-awaited return? A World Showcase throwback? A fan-favorite that’s disappeared from regular meet-and-greet rotations? That’s part of what’s made this so exciting for Passholders—there’s a mystery at play, and only those who show up get to solve it.
What really sets this apart, though, is how different it feels from the norm. These days, most Disney offerings come with some kind of added fee or planning requirement. You need to book months in advance, pay for special events. But this meet-and-greet doesn’t follow those rules. It’s first-come, first-served. You show up, wait your turn, and enjoy a personal moment with a character—just like the old days.
Of course, Disney is making sure it stays exclusive. Guests will need to present a valid Annual Pass and a government-issued photo ID to join the line. Whether that’s a physical pass, MagicBand, or Disney MagicMobile, you’ll need proof that you’re a Passholder. And since there’s no set limit on how many guests can participate each day, arriving early is your best bet—especially if you’re visiting on a weekend.
This isn’t the only perk Passholders are getting this summer. Disney has also rolled out limited-edition snacks, exclusive merchandise, and even special lounge areas across the parks as part of the V.I.Passholder Summer Days initiative. But this character experience is quickly becoming the fan-favorite—partly because of the secrecy, and partly because it feels like something designed with Passholders in mind, not just repurposed from other events.
Unlike the more commercialized offerings that sometimes leave guests questioning the value of their Annual Pass, this feels like a genuine thank-you. There’s no extra fee, no strings attached. Just show up with your pass and enjoy a character encounter that’s off the beaten path. It’s the kind of thing Passholders have been asking for more of—unique, low-pressure experiences that make them feel appreciated.
What makes this even more special is the limited window. Once July 31 hits, the experience is scheduled to end, and there’s no word on whether it’ll return. Disney hasn’t said if this is a test for future Passholder exclusives or a one-time offering. So if you’re on the fence about making the trip, now’s the time to do it.
EPCOT has always been a place of discovery, and in a park that’s currently balancing nostalgic charm with major upgrades, this little meet-and-greet stands out. It’s simple, it’s charming, and it’s the kind of quiet magic that’s easy to miss—unless you know where to look.
For Annual Passholders looking to make the most of their benefits this summer, this is one experience you won’t want to skip. And for Disney? It’s a small but meaningful way to say thanks to some of their most dedicated fans.
