December 2012

[andmomlau]

Last year, we made last minute plans for a long weekend trip and had a fabulous time! We'd like to do the same this year. Can anyone tell me if there are usually any free dining weeks early in December???

[faline]

I know there have been in the past - no idea if it will continue into the future.

[The Hitchhiking Ghost]

Originally Posted by andmomlau

Last year, we made last minute plans for a long weekend trip and had a fabulous time! We'd like to do the same this year. Can anyone tell me if there are usually any free dining weeks early in December???

Previous year isn't always an accurate indicator for the current year. That said, there has been free dining for the last three years (2009-2011) for December (usually ending between the 17th - 21st).

In those three years Disney released the free Dining program in late July or early August. I don't know if any "advance" knowledge was given prior to the actual release dates or not.

Lots of speculation that with economy showing signs of improvement, with Fantasyland expansion that Disney could start trying to wean people of the discounts of the past 3-4 years.

I hope not, as I just contacted MJ yesterday (yeah Kathy) to book a room only reservation at POR for Nov/Dec and am most anxious for room discounts or free dining to be offered.

[Gator]

Originally Posted by The Hitchhiking Ghost

Lots of speculation that with economy showing signs of improvement, with Fantasyland expansion that Disney could start trying to wean people of the discounts of the past 3-4 years.

So apparently your area is the only place the economy is doing better. I know it's still in the tank out west, with no signs of turning up. The only way I'm getting to WDW is with a discount, and I'm in the majority.

I know they don't offer free dining the week of Pop Warner, but they did have a small room discount that week. It's so hard to predict these days.

[The Hitchhiking Ghost]

Originally Posted by Gator

So apparently your area is the only place the economy is doing better. I know it's still in the tank out west, with no signs of turning up. The only way I'm getting to WDW is with a discount, and I'm in the majority.

I know they don't offer free dining the week of Pop Warner, but they did have a small room discount that week. It's so hard to predict these days.

It's showing signs at the state level (MN). Supposedly unemployment levels have dropped and state sales tax revenue increased, but property values have tanked with most homes probably losing 30% of their value from 2008-12. Apparently economic indicators are getting better but it isn't reaching our pocket books yet.

I thought when we were at WDW in 2010 our trip crossed over Pop Warner and we had free dining. I know it was offered starting the Saturday following Thanksgiving.

I'm crossing my fingers for some kind of discount or free dining starting right after Thanksgiving.