As Disney fans (and Florida residents) know, it’s awesome to pay a particular, affordable amount once and then pop into Disney World any time you want for the entire year. While it may sound too good to be true, an annual pass allows you to do just that. But while the least-expensive annual pass is available to Florida residents only, Disney is now offering a 2026 annual pass at a special discounted price for military families.
In celebration of America’s 250th birthday, there’s going to be a special “Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket” for eligible service members and their families. And it costs only $499 per person, for a full year of access to the park. When you consider how much a single day ticket for one Disney park normally costs — and tickets start at more than $100 — you’ll see how much of a big deal this new ticket is.
The ticket no doubt presents itself as one of the most stress-free ways to plan a trip to Disney theme parks without worrying about heavy budgeting. Now, you and your family can come and go as you please: whether you want several weekend trips, a big summer vacation, or quick stop-ins at different times. Even if you don’t want the one-year pass, you can choose one of Disney’s 6-Day, 5-Day, or 4-Day discounted Military Salute Tickets, which cost between $409 and $479 depending on the number of days you want and the benefits you seek. Still, the year-long ticket remains the best deal.
Read more: These Simple Tips Will Make Traveling With Just One Carry-On Bag Even Easier
Understanding the Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket
A young female soldier saluting near American flags. – Mivpiv/Getty Images
You already know this promotional opportunity is specifically for U.S. service members and their families. That means it applies to both active and retired members of the military, including National Guard, Reservists, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the commissioned corps of both the Public Health Service (PHS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The condition for admission is that eligible guests provide a valid military ID for ticket activation. And spouses can gain entry with their IDs as well, even if the service member isn’t available. Eligible visitors have access to all four major Walt Disney World theme parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
There are two options available for this year-long Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket. The first is the Park Hopper option ($499 plus tax), which allows passholders to visit more than one theme park in a day. The second is the Park Hopper Plus option ($529 plus tax), combining the benefit of the first option with the added opportunity to access water parks and golf opportunities. In any case, you’ll need to make park reservations in advance, and tickets are valid from January 1 through December 18, 2026; however, there are block out dates for spring break (March 29 through April 11) and Thanksgiving week (November 22 through 28).
Moreover, since this offer is part of the Disney Celebrates America 250th anniversary event, it’s expected to come with seasonal shows, patriotic performances, and new 2026-exclusive entertainment across the parks. This opens doors to everything from the Soarin’ Across America virtual flight experience to the July 4 fireworks and broadcasts, all without needing additional ticket purchases.
Seizing the opportunity the smart way
People at the entrance of a toy shop in Downtown Disney, Florida. – Drserg/Getty Images
Tickets can be purchased through military base ticket offices or at a theme park ticket window. And here’s a quick insider hack worth knowing for your Disney visit: If you buy your ticket at a base ticket office, including the Shades of Green Resort at Walt Disney World, tax may not be included — and the overall price may even be lower. Another important thing: be strategic about park reservations. Since the deal is year-long, you have enough flexibility to spread out your visits and avoid peak days. And absolutely do not forget to bring your military ID.
Essentially, since this is a special offer and different from a regular annual pass, note that it does not come with extras like free parking or in-park discounts. So, any additional perk may have to be acquired separately, although there may be discounted rooms and other benefits for military members at select Disney Resort hotels. When you add those room discounts to the 2026 military ticket promo, your Disney trip becomes even more affordable, memorable, and enjoyable. In preparation, you might want to check out things to pack for your Disney adventure.
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Read the original article on Explore.