Summary
Disneyand Universal theme parks continue to evolve, with recent updates affecting both visitors and passholders. Changes toDisney Worldannual pass pricing, a new experience at Savi’s Workshop in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and price increases at Universal Orlando are among the latest developments. As the parks introduce new offerings and adjustments, these updates provide insight into what’s ahead for Disney guests and Universal fans alike.
Walt Disney World Lowers Annual Pass Down Payment, Raises Monthly Costs
Walt Disney World has adjusted its Annual Passholder Florida Resident Monthly Payment Program, lowering the required down payment while increasing the monthly installment costs. Previously, Florida residents were required to put down $205 when enrolling in the monthly payment plan. Now, that initial payment has been reduced to $99. To balance out the lower upfront cost, Disney has increased the monthly payment for each pass tier by approximately $8. Despite the change in structure, the total cost over 12 months remains the same.
AsWDWNTreports, annual passholders still have the option to pay in full, which remains slightly cheaper than the monthly plan. Additionally, the program continues to offer 0% APR financing. The new monthly payment rates are as follows:
These adjustments apply only to new purchases. Guests who are already enrolled in a payment plan for their annual pass will continue paying their current rates. The Pixie Dust Pass and Pirate Pass are exclusive to Florida residents, while the Sorcerer Pass is available to both Florida residents and Disney Vacation Club members. The Incredi-Pass remains open to all guests. Each pass tier includes perks such as up to 20% off select dining and merchandise, along with complimentary standard theme park parking. However, blockout dates and reservation limits still apply.
These changes are only applied to Walt Disney World annual passholders. The prices for theDisneyland Magic Key Passes, which recently went back on sale, are staying the same for now.
Savi’s Workshop Introduces New Lightsaber-Building Experience at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Walt Disney World is introducing an exciting new experience at Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, offering guests a fresh way to craft their own unique Jedi weapon. Beginning June 04, 2025, the “Reclaimed and Reforged” theme will debut as a limited-time option at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, allowing visitors to build lightsabers with parts inspired by remnants of battles past. Originally announced for Disneyland Resort’s “Season of the Force” event, this special theme will also be available in Florida while supplies last.
ThroughoutStar Warshistory, numerous lightsabers have ended up in the possession of smugglers and bounty hunters, becoming remnants of ancient conflicts and forgotten battles. Scavenged from the farthest edges of the galaxy, these lost pieces of Jedi and Sith history can now be repurposed into refined weapons that embody harmony within the Force.
According to theme park reporterScott Gustin, this new theme will join the existing four themes at Savi’s Workshop:
With the introduction of “Reclaimed and Reforged,” guests will have an even greater selection of customizable scrap pieces to craft a truly one-of-a-kind lightsaber. As this experience is expected to be available for a limited time,Star Warsfans visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios on May the 4th and beyond may want to act quickly before supplies run out. And while visiting a galaxy far, far away, guests can also check out fan-favorite rides, such asRise of the Resistanceand Millenium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run.
Disneyland Unveils Limited-Time Easter Treats and Dining Experiences for Spring
Spring is in full bloom at Disneyland Resort, and with it comes a delightful array of Easter-themed treats and exclusive dining experiences. From indulgent desserts to character dining in festive attire, guests can celebrate the season with limited-time offerings across Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure, and the resort hotels.
Available Throughout Disneyland Resort
Walt Disney World Resort Announces Exclusive Easter-Themed Food
Spring has arrived at Walt Disney World, bringing with it a seasonal lineup of Easter-themed treats. Guests can indulge in limited-time desserts and specialty snacks across the theme parks, Disney Springs, andDisney World resort hotels. Whether enjoying a decadent holiday brunch or picking up whimsical confections, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate Easter at the Most Magical Place on Earth.
Guests visiting Universal Orlando Resort will notice higher food and beverage prices at both quick-service and table-service locations as the resort prepares for the highly anticipatedopening of Epic Universe on June 19, 2025. Beverages saw a price hike across the board, with fountain sodas increasing from $4.29 to $4.79, while hot drinks, including coffee, hot chocolate, and tea, rose from $3.69 to $4.29. The Coca-Cola Freestyle souvenir mugs, which allow guests to refill at designated locations, have also increased by $1 in recent months.
At Today Café, guests will see notable price hikes across the menu including salads, which increased by $3–$4, sandwiches which increased by $4, and the soup of the day, which saw a 99-cent price bump. At Emerald City Eats, breakfast and dessert favorites are now slightly pricier, including the strawberriful waffle, which increased by 50 cents, and the breakfiz croissant, which increased by $1. Additional price increases have been noted at popular Wizarding World of Harry Potter locations such as Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlour, as well as other fan-favorite dining spots like The Frying Dutchman and Krusty Burger in Springfield, U.S.A.
Disney
Disney is a conglomerate and media company that owns a variety of television stations like ABC, Disney Channel, and Disney XD. They are also owners of the Marvel and Star Wars franchises and own the ever-popular Disney theme parks found all around the world.
