Hiya, Jessica! Welcome to planDisney!
Thanks for sharing your question with us. I’m always happy to help a fellow (or soon-to-be) Annual Passholder. I became a passholder for the first time this year, and it’s been wonderful to take advantage of the various perks and discounts. You can find information about this season’s perks
here, and information on passholder hotel deals on the
Special Offers page.
Your Walt Disney World Annual Pass activates when you visit a theme park or activate it at Guest Services, and its expiration date will then be one year from the activation date, not the purchase date. I experienced this when I purchased my Annual Pass in January 2025, but didn’t visit the parks until March, and now my pass expires in March 2026.
You’re visiting Walt Disney World at such a wonderful time of year, Jessica. The winter holiday festivities will be in full swing with Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom, Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios, and the International Festival of the Holidays at EPCOT.
The Disney Parks Blog has been sharing details about all these holly jolly events, including the handy Foodie Guides. Be sure to take a look at them before your visit.
I hope this information helps for your upcoming visit. Don’t hesitate to pop back if you have any other Annual Pass or vacation planning questions. Your planDisney pals are always happy to help!
Magical travels!
Matt