The 2026 Disney Armed Forces Salute is one of the most valuable Disney discounts available to eligible U.S. military families, but it is not as simple as buying the cheapest ticket and calling the trip planned.
For 2026, both Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Disneyland Resort in California offer special military tickets and hotel discounts. Walt Disney World also has the special Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket, which is a major addition for America’s 250th anniversary year.
That sounds straightforward, but the real-world decision is more complicated. Ticket savings matter. So do park reservations, blockout dates, hotel location, transportation, Lightning Lane costs, food costs, family size, and how your family actually wants to vacation.
This guide is not just a list of prices. It is designed to help military families understand what the 2026 Disney Armed Forces Salute offers, who qualifies, when it is worth it, and what planning mistakes to avoid at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland.
REALITY CHECK: Military Disney discounts can save your family a lot of money, but they do not automatically make Disney inexpensive. The best results come from matching the right ticket, resort, and trip strategy to your family’s actual travel style.
Quick Take: Is the 2026 Disney Armed Forces Salute Worth It?
For many eligible military families, yes, the 2026 Disney Armed Forces Salute is still one of the best Disney ticket values available.
But the best choice depends on where you are going, how many park days you need, whether you will visit more than once, whether you need water park access, whether Lightning Lane Multi Pass matters to your family, and how much flexibility you need.
At Walt Disney World, the standard Military Salute Tickets are best for families planning a traditional 4- to 6-day vacation. The Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket is a much better value for families who will visit Walt Disney World repeatedly during 2026.
At Disneyland, the military tickets are better suited for shorter trips, and the option to purchase tickets with Lightning Lane Multi Pass included changes the planning math.
The key is not simply asking, “Which ticket is cheapest?”
The better question is:
Which ticket gives my military family the best combination of savings, flexibility, convenience, and realistic vacation pacing?
2026 Walt Disney World Military Salute Ticket Prices
For 2026, Walt Disney World offers 4-Day, 5-Day, and 6-Day Disney Military Salute Tickets, plus the special Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket.
Important: Walt Disney World Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets require theme park reservations. Buy the ticket, link it to your Disney account, and make your park reservations before your trip.
| Walt Disney World Ticket | Park Hopper | Park Hopper Plus |
|---|---|---|
| 4-Day Disney Military Salute Ticket | $409 plus tax | $439 plus tax |
| 5-Day Disney Military Salute Ticket | $429 plus tax | $459 plus tax |
| 6-Day Disney Military Salute Ticket | $449 plus tax | $479 plus tax |
| Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket | $499 plus tax | $529 plus tax |
Tickets purchased at participating military ticket offices or Shades of Green are sold tax-free. Tickets purchased at Walt Disney World theme park ticket windows have tax added.
Walt Disney World theme park reservations are required.
Related planning help: Walt Disney World Military Theme Park Tickets (the regular discount, not the Salute) and Shades of Green Ticket Office.
Walt Disney World 2026 Military Salute Dates and Blockout Dates
The 2026 Walt Disney World Disney Military Salute Tickets and Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Tickets are valid for admission from January 1 through December 18, 2026.
They may not be used during these 2026 blockout dates:
- March 29 through April 11, 2026
- November 22 through November 28, 2026
All Walt Disney World Disney Military Salute Tickets and options expire after December 18, 2026. This effectively blocks Christmas as well.
MOST FAMILIES DON’T REALIZE: The expiration date and blockouts matter more than many people expect. These are not “use whenever” tickets. If your family is planning a trip near Spring Break, Thanksgiving, or Christmas, check the dates carefully before buying. If your planned trip is during a period when the Salute Tickets are not valid, you’ll need to fall back on the Regular Military Discount Tickets (which save less).
What Is the Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket?
The Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket is a special new Walt Disney World ticket introduced in 2026 for America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Unlike the regular 4-Day, 5-Day, and 6-Day Disney Military Salute Tickets, this ticket allows repeated theme park admission through December 18, 2026, subject to blockout dates, park reservation availability, and ticket rules.
It is not an Annual Pass. That distinction matters.
The Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket does not include Annual Passholder benefits such as:
- Free theme park parking
- Annual Passholder merchandise discounts
- Annual Passholder dining discounts
- Other Annual Passholder perks
Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket holders may hold up to 5 park reservations at a time on a rolling basis.
STEVE SAYS: The Disney Celebrates America Military Ticket presents a fantastic opportunity for military families who are able to travel to Disney World two or even more times. This ticket is changing the way military families vacation at Disney World! Those who have purchased in 2025 have found that they go even more often than they thought they would.
Related planning help: Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket Guide.
2026 Disneyland Resort Military Salute Ticket Prices
Disneyland Resort also offers special 2026 military promotional tickets for eligible U.S. military members and spouses.
Disneyland military ticket planning works differently from Walt Disney World planning. Disneyland is a smaller, more walkable destination, and Disneyland military tickets can be purchased with Lightning Lane Multi Pass included or without it.
| Disneyland Resort Military Ticket | 2026 Price |
|---|---|
| 1-Day 1-Park Military Ticket – Child | $98 |
| 1-Day 1-Park Military Ticket – Adult | $104 |
| 3-Day Military Promotional Park Hopper Ticket | $314 |
| 3-Day Military Promotional Park Hopper Ticket with Lightning Lane Multi Pass | $416 |
| 4-Day Military Promotional Park Hopper Ticket | $369 |
| 4-Day Military Promotional Park Hopper Ticket with Lightning Lane Multi Pass | $505 |
The 1-Day Disneyland military ticket is valid now and expires on December 30, 2027. The 3-Day and 4-Day Disneyland military promotional tickets are valid beginning January 1, 2026, and expire on December 31, 2026.
Disneyland theme park reservations are required.
MILITARY INSIGHT: As you see, Disneyland offers shorter ticket length options. That’s OK, though, as the Disneyland Resort is way more compact, with fewer options, compared to Disney World. You’ll easily be able to accomplish all you want in 3 or 4 days, especially with the efficient use of Lightning Lane Multi Pass!
Related planning help: Disneyland Military Discounts Guide and Lightning Lane Single and Multi Pass Guide.
Key Walt Disney World vs Disneyland Military Ticket Differences
| Planning Topic | Walt Disney World | Disneyland Resort |
|---|---|---|
| Vacation Scale | Massive multi-resort destination | Compact two-park destination |
| Transportation | Major planning factor | Walkable |
| Military Ticket Style | 4-Day, 5-Day, 6-Day, and Disney Celebrates America options | 1-Day, 3-Day, and 4-Day options |
| Park Reservations | Required | Required |
| Lightning Lane | Purchased separately by day | Can be bundled into military tickets or purchased separately by day |
| Hotel Strategy Impact | Major operational factor | Still important, but off-site walkable hotels can work very well |
| Typical Trip Length | 5 to 8 days | 2 to 4 days |
Who Qualifies for the 2026 Disney Armed Forces Salute?
The Disney Military Salute Tickets may be purchased by eligible service members or their spouses.
Eligible service members include active or retired members of:
- U.S. Army
- U.S. Navy
- U.S. Air Force
- U.S. Marine Corps
- U.S. Coast Guard
- U.S. Space Force
- National Guard
- Reservists
- Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service
- Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Eligible spouses also qualify if they have a valid and active U.S. military ID.
100% permanently disabled veterans qualify when they have the proper 100% disabled veteran military ID issued through DEERS/RAPIDS. Disney does not accept a Veterans Health Identification Card, VA paperwork, disability letters, or benefits documents for Disney Military Salute ticket eligibility.
STEVE SAYS: Many veterans understandably assume that honorable service alone automatically qualifies them for the offer. Discovering that eligibility is limited to certain groups can feel frustrating and disappointing, especially for those who served proudly but no longer have qualifying military status or ID access. However, Veterans who do not qualify for the Salute offer still have several other ways to save based on their status, which may include standard military-discounted Disney tickets available through many military ticket offices and Shades of Green and stays at Shades of Green.
Related planning help:
- Disney Veteran Discount and Military Eligibility Guide
- Disney Discounts and the John McCain Defense Authorization Act
- Shades of Green Stays for Non-Retired Veterans
- Veteran Discounts for Disney, Universal, and Other Theme Parks
- Disney Military Discounts for Veterans Who Did Not Retire from the Military
How Many Disney Military Salute Tickets Can You Buy?
An eligible service member may purchase up to 6 Disney Military Salute Tickets total.
One of those tickets must be used by the eligible service member or spouse. The rest may be used for family and friends.
One ticket in the allotment is always tied to the eligible service member, even if the member does not personally use a Salute Ticket.
The spouse may use the member’s allotment if the member is not present. Spouses may purchase up to 5 Disney Military Salute Tickets total Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets in place of the member.
The 6-ticket limit applies to the eligible service member. The service member and spouse do not each get a separate allotment.
If the eligible service member or spouse has a valid Walt Disney World Annual Pass at the time of purchase and ticket use, they are not required to use one of the Walt Disney World Military Salute Tickets. In that case, they may purchase up to 5 tickets for others.
Shades of Green notes that a Disney exception exists for a service member and spouse with more than four children ages 3–17, provided the children are immediate family members and enrolled in DEERS.
MILITARY INSIGHT: Larger military families and extended travel groups need to carefully plan for the use of Salute Tickets and the Regular Military Discounted Theme Park tickets based on the number in the party, the number of direct dependents, and the ages of all to end up with the lowest total ticket cost. Note: Some local base ticket offices may be unaware of the Large Family Exception, so SHades of Green should be your (long-distance purchase) go-to!
Do These Tickets Require Park Reservations?
Yes! Both Walt Disney World and Disneyland military promotional tickets require theme park reservations.
This is one of the most important planning details for 2026.
You need both:
- A valid ticket
- A theme park reservation for the park you plan to visit
With the Park Hopper or Park Hopper Plus, you must first enter the park where you made your reservation before hopping to another park, subject to any time-of-day restrictions and park capacity limits.
REALITY CHECK: Do not buy your tickets and then wait weeks or months to make park reservations. Reservation availability matters, especially around popular travel periods and the end of the ticket year.
Related planning help: Making Theme-Park Reservations
Park Hopper vs Park Hopper Plus vs Lightning Lane Multi Pass
Walt Disney World and Disneyland use different ticket structures for their 2026 military offers.
At Walt Disney World
All 2026 Walt Disney World Disney Military Salute Tickets include either Park Hopper or Park Hopper Plus.
The Park Hopper option allows you to visit more than one theme park on the same day.
The Park Hopper Plus option includes Park Hopper plus a certain number of visits to other Walt Disney World experiences, such as water parks, miniature golf, or other included options, based on the length of your ticket.
Lightning Lane Multi Pass is not included with the Walt Disney World Military Salute Tickets. If your family wants Lightning Lane Multi Pass or Lightning Lane Single Pass, budget for that separately.
Related planning help: Park Hopper, Park Hopper Plus, and Water Park and Sports Options, and Lightning Lane Multi and Single Pass
At Disneyland
Disneyland offers 3-Day and 4-Day military Park Hopper tickets, both with and without Lightning Lane Multi Pass included.
This is a major practical difference. Disneyland’s compact layout makes park hopping easier, and bundling Lightning Lane Multi Pass into the ticket can simplify budgeting for some families.
PRACTICAL LESSON: Because Lightning Lane Multi Pass can be purchased either as part of your ticket (for every day of the ticket) or in-app day-by-day as needed, you should carefully weigh whether you need Lightning Lane for every day of the trip! Purchasing it for one day vs all will save your family a meaningful amount of money.
Is the Disney Armed Forces Salute Still a Great Deal in 2026?
Yes, but with a more realistic answer than many families expect.
The Disney Military Salute still offers major ticket savings compared with regular Disney ticket prices. For a family buying several tickets, the savings can be substantial.
But Disney vacations have become expensive in many other ways. Ticket savings do not erase the cost of:
- Resorts
- Food
- Transportation
- Souvenirs
- Lightning Lane Multi Pass
- Lightning Lane Single Pass
- Parking
- Special events
- Travel to Florida or California
The Salute ticket is still a strong deal. It just needs to be part of a full strategy.
STEVE SAYS: The Disney Armed Forces Salute discount on tickets presents the very best savings on Disney tickets ever offered! As long as the available dates and purchase amount restrictions work for you, they are the way to go! You should pair these tickets (or the Regular Military ones) with the best savings you find for your desired accommodations (whether the Disney Salute Discount on rooms or a Shades of Green Stay), and if they fit the few Military Discounts on food at WDW and DLR.
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Best Strategy by Military Family Type
First-Time Walt Disney World Families
For a first Walt Disney World trip, the 5-Day or 6-Day Military Salute Ticket is the safest choice. Four days can work, but it creates more pressure to do everything quickly.
A 5- or 6-day ticket allows your family to slow down, repeat favorite parks, and build in more realistic pacing.
First-Time Disneyland Families
For a first Disneyland trip, the 3-Day or 4-Day Park Hopper ticket makes the most sense. Disneyland is much easier to navigate than Walt Disney World, but there is still enough to do that one day rarely feels like enough for a true vacation experience.
The Lightning Lane Multi Pass versions deserve consideration if your family wants to reduce wait times and simplify the planning budget up front.
Large Military Families
Large families should focus less on “perfect Disney planning” and more on reducing friction. The ticket discount helps, but hotel room setup, transportation, and food costs may drive the total budget even more.
At Walt Disney World, Shades of Green, Disney family suites, DVC rentals, or carefully chosen off-site lodging may all make sense depending on transportation needs and group size.
At Disneyland, nearby off-site hotels are a practical choice because many are within walking distance of the parks.
Repeat Walt Disney World Visitors
Repeat Walt Disney World visitors should look closely at the Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket if they will visit multiple times in 2026.
However, remember that it does not include Annual Passholder benefits. If you think the discounts on parking, merchandise discounts, dining discounts, or Annual Passholder hotel offers will offset the extra cost of an Annual Pass, you should investigate a pass.
Short-Trip Families
For very short trips, do the math carefully. Sometimes, a regular military discounted date-based Walt Disney World ticket makes more sense than a Military Salute Ticket, especially if you only need one, two, or three park days.
Disneyland’s 1-Day military ticket is useful for families who only need a single park day in California.
Families Staying at Shades of Green
Shades of Green can be a tremendous value, especially for eligible families who want large rooms and military-focused pricing. But you should understand the transportation tradeoffs before deciding.
Shades is not the same as staying at a Disney monorail resort, even though it is located near the Polynesian. The walking path to the Polynesian has been closed since 2023, so transportation planning matters.
WHAT I’D DO DIFFERENTLY: Our very first multi-day stay at Walt Disney World was at Shades of Green. Previously, we’d only done day trips to one park; that time, we stayed for a whole week! There was no Salute back then, and the price difference vs Disney was what sealed the deal for us. Today, I’d carefully compare prices between Shades of Green and the available Disney Salute discounts on Value and Moderate Disney Resorts to find the best tradeoff between price and experience/convenience.
2026 Walt Disney World Military Room Discounts
In addition to ticket discounts, Walt Disney World offers military room discounts at select Disney Resort hotels for stays most nights from January 1 through December 18, 2026.
Disney lists military savings of:
- Up to 30% at select Deluxe and Deluxe Villa resorts
- Up to 25% at select Moderate resorts
- Up to 20% at select Value resorts and campsites
The highest savings are available for many eligible stays from June 1 through August 31, 2026, depending on resort category and availability.
The number of rooms allocated for this offer is limited, and valid military ID is required at check-in. The military member or spouse must stay in the room.
Related planning help: How Disney Military Room Discounts Work.
2026 Disneyland Military Hotel Discounts
Disneyland Resort also offers military hotel discounts at select Disneyland Resort hotels for select nights from January 1 through December 31, 2026.
Unlike Walt Disney World, Disneyland’s hotel decision is not only about Disney transportation. Many nearby off-site hotels are also walkable to the parks, which changes the value comparison.
Disneyland Resort hotels offer strong convenience, Disney theming, hotel-specific perks, and proximity to the parks. But they are expensive compared with nearby off-site options.
Military families should compare:
- Disneyland Resort hotel pricing
- Nearby walkable off-site hotels
- Parking costs
- Walking distance
- Hotel perks
- Whether the Disney hotel experience is worth the added cost
PRACTICAL LESSON: At Disneyland Resort, the difference between staying with Disney and off-property is not as clear-cut as it is at WDW. Many off-property hotels are as close or closer to the theme parks as some of the Disney options. So here, convenience is not a big factor; instead, you are just weighing the full immersive experience vs price.
Should Military Families Stay at Shades of Green or a Disney Resort?
This is one of the most important Walt Disney World planning decisions military families make.
Shades of Green offers excellent room value, large rooms, no resort fee, tax-free pricing, and a calm atmosphere that many military families love.
Disney Resort hotels offer stronger location advantages, Disney transportation convenience, Early Theme Park Entry, and, for Deluxe resorts, Extended Evening Theme Park Hours on select nights.
The right answer depends on your family.
Shades of Green Is Better If:
- You want larger rooms
- You value lower resort costs
- You are comfortable with Shades transportation
- You want a quieter military-focused resort
- You are doing a budget-conscious Disney trip
A Disney Resort Is Better If:
- You want easier Disney transportation
- You are prioritizing location
- You want Skyliner, monorail, boat, or walking access
- You plan to use Early Theme Park Entry heavily
- You are traveling with very young children and want easier midday breaks
TRANSPORTATION REALITY CHECK: Just be aware that one area where Shades of Green lags behind Disney transportation is the resort’s limited bus system. Shades of Green runs just 3 bus routes. One for the Magic Kingdom and EPCOT that drops guests off at the Transportation and Ticket Center, where you must join the large Transportation and Ticket Center security lines shared with guests arriving from the Disney parking lots. Once cleared, you then have to board Disney transportation to the theme parks. This adds quite a bit of time to your round-trip transport time! Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom share a bus, as do Disney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon. Bus transportation is not provided for separate ticketed events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Families planning midday breaks, late-night parties, or stroller-heavy trips will feel these transportation limitations the most.
Related planning help: Shades of Green vs Disney Resorts – Value, Moderate, Deluxe, Shades of Green Resort Guide, and Shades of Green Transportation Guide.
Why Disneyland Military Trips Feel Different
Disneyland is not simply a smaller Walt Disney World.
Operationally, it feels very different.
At Disneyland:
- You can walk between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure very quickly
- Many nearby hotels are within walking distance
- Midday breaks are easier
- Park hopping is simpler
- Transportation consumes far less vacation time
That makes Disneyland feel:
- Less exhausting
- Less logistically complex
- Easier for shorter military-family trips
Walt Disney World still offers far more scale, more resorts, more dining, more parks, and a bigger “destination vacation” feel. But that scale also creates more complexity.
STEVE SAYS: The sheer size difference is the biggest plus for Disneyland. Recently, my adult son and I spent 3 days at Disneyland (after I was TDY to the LA area). We purchased Lightning Lane Multi Pass for 2 of the days, and we did every big and medium ride that we wanted multiple times! We were bouncing back and forth once or twice a day between the parks the first two days. By day three, we were just chilling and doing the small stuff.
What Military Families Commonly Miscalculate
Early Entry Verification Line – 8:16 a.m.
Here are the most common mistakes military families make with the Disney Armed Forces Salute.
1. Assuming the Ticket Discount Solves the Budget
The ticket discount is important, but it is only one part of the total trip cost. Food, hotels, Lightning Lane, transportation, parking, and travel expenses can easily outweigh the ticket savings if you are not careful.
2. Buying Park Hopper Plus Without a Real Plan
At Walt Disney World, Park Hopper Plus can be a good value, but only if you actually use the extras. A tired family with four full theme park days may not realistically fit in water parks or miniature golf.
3. Ignoring Disneyland as a Serious Option
Some military families automatically default to Walt Disney World because it feels like the “big” Disney vacation. But Disneyland can be a better fit for shorter leave periods, West Coast families, younger children, or families who want a less complicated Disney trip.
4. Waiting Too Long to Make Park Reservations
Military promotional tickets require park reservations. Do not treat that as a minor detail.
5. Underestimating Transportation Time at Walt Disney World
Moving around Walt Disney World takes time. Park hopping, resort breaks, dinner reservations, and evening returns all require transportation planning.
6. Planning Like Every Family Member Has the Same Energy Level
Military families often try to maximize the value of every day. That is understandable, but over-scheduled Disney days can create exhausted kids, frustrated adults, and a trip that feels more like a mission than a vacation.
REALITY CHECK: I can’t tell you enough how much I recommend Mid-Day Breaks, especially in the summertime! During peak attendance periods, Disney’s parks are open 12-14+ hours a day. Trying to stay from park open to park close is unreasonable on a multi-day trip! Take my advice and head to the resort to chill and cool off mid-day, you’ll avoid the infamous and dreaded Disney-Meltdown that the kids will be sure to have if you tough it out.
Memory Maker Military Discount for Walt Disney World in 2026
Eligible military members may purchase the discounted 2026 Walt Disney World Memory Maker for $98 through December 18, 2026.
Memory Maker can be especially valuable for:
- First trips
- Multi-generational trips
- Large families
- Families celebrating reunions
- Families who want everyone in the photos
The military Memory Maker discount is one of the easier “yes” recommendations for families who care about photos. The bigger your group and the more PhotoPass pictures you take, the better the value.
At Disneyland, tickets that include Lightning Lane Multi Pass also include unlimited Disney PhotoPass digital downloads from the day of your visit.
STEVE SAYS: This is a great bonus value for military families! The price is well more than half off, and the pictures will give you lasting memories of your Disney vacation.
Related planning help: Walt Disney World’s Military Memory Maker Discount.
My Recommended 2026 Military Disney Planning Approach
For most military families planning a Disney trip in 2026, I would start with this sequence:
- Decide whether Walt Disney World or Disneyland better fits your family, based on leave time, budget, and travel distance.
- Choose your ticket based on realistic park days, not just maximum possible value.
- Check blockout dates and expiration dates before buying anything.
- Make park reservations immediately after purchasing tickets.
- Compare resort strategy carefully, especially Shades of Green vs Disney Resorts at Walt Disney World.
- At Disneyland, compare Disney hotels against nearby walkable off-site hotels.
- Budget separately for food, Lightning Lane, transportation, parking, and extras.
- Build in rest time instead of trying to extract every possible minute of park time.
The best military Disney strategy is not always the cheapest strategy. It is the one that gives your family the best vacation for the money you are actually spending.
STEVE OPINION: A Disney vacation is a very unique experience, in that it is so immersive that it is very easy to leave behind the everyday cares, worries, and stress of the outside world. Disney Parks are the perfect place for a military family to spend time together and think of nothing else. They are the ideal location for a pre-deployment getaway, for reconnecting after a deployment, or for a special treat for the kids while mom or dad is away.
Need Help Booking Your Disney Military Vacation?
If you want help comparing Disney Resorts, military room discounts, Shades of Green, tickets, and vacation packages, I recommend working with my trusted Disney travel planning partners.
They understand Disney planning and can help you sort through the options without adding stress to your trip.
Get help from The Mouse Experts, my recommended military Disney vacation specialists.
Need Help Planning Your Disney Vacation?
Disney military discounts can save families a lot of money, but figuring out tickets, eligibility, resorts, Lightning Lane strategies, and transportation can quickly become overwhelming.
That’s why Military Disney Tips recommends The Mouse Experts Military Disney Vacation Specialists.
The Mouse Experts is a military-family owned and operated Disney-specializing travel agency that has partnered with Military Disney Tips for over 17 years. Their agents personally use the same military discounts that you do and understand the unique challenges military families face when planning Disney vacations.
- Experienced with Disney military discounts and eligibility rules
- Military-family owned and operated
- Same Disney pricing as booking directly with Disney
- Additional planning assistance available for guests wanting more personalized help
- Can help reduce stress, save time, and avoid common planning mistakes
Over 27,000 Military Disney Tips readers have contacted The Mouse Experts over the years for help planning their Disney vacations.
2026 Disney Armed Forces Salute FAQ
What is the 2026 Disney Armed Forces Salute?
The Disney Armed Forces Salute is Disney’s special military promotional ticket and room discount program for eligible U.S. military members and spouses. For 2026, both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort offer military ticket and hotel discounts. Walt Disney World also offers the special Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket.
How much are the 2026 Walt Disney World Military Salute Tickets?
The 2026 Walt Disney World Military Salute Tickets are $409 plus tax for the 4-Day Park Hopper, $429 plus tax for the 5-Day Park Hopper, and $449 plus tax for the 6-Day Park Hopper. Park Hopper Plus versions cost more. The Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket is $499 plus tax with Park Hopper or $529 plus tax with Park Hopper Plus.
How much are the 2026 Disneyland military tickets?
The 2026 Disneyland Resort military ticket options include a 1-Day 1-Park Military Ticket for $98 for children and $104 for adults, a 3-Day Park Hopper for $314, a 3-Day Park Hopper with Lightning Lane Multi Pass for $416, a 4-Day Park Hopper for $369, and a 4-Day Park Hopper with Lightning Lane Multi Pass for $505.
Do 2026 Disney Military Salute Tickets require park reservations?
Yes. Both Walt Disney World and Disneyland military promotional tickets require theme park reservations. You should make reservations as soon as possible after purchasing your tickets.
What are the 2026 Walt Disney World Military Salute blockout dates?
The Walt Disney World 2026 blockout dates are March 29 through April 11, 2026, and November 22 through November 28, 2026. Walt Disney World Military Salute Tickets expire after December 18, 2026.
Do veterans qualify for Disney Military Salute Tickets?
Not all veterans qualify for Disney Military Salute Tickets. Active and retired military members qualify, along with eligible Guard, Reserve, Coast Guard, Space Force, PHS, NOAA, qualifying spouses with valid military ID, and 100% permanently disabled veterans with the proper DEERS/RAPIDS-issued military ID. Disney does not accept a VHIC, VA paperwork, disability letters, or benefits documents for Salute ticket eligibility.
Is the Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket an Annual Pass?
No. The Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket allows repeated Walt Disney World admission during much of 2026, but Disney states that it is not an Annual Pass and does not include Annual Passholder benefits such as free parking, merchandise discounts, dining discounts, or other Annual Passholder perks.
Should military families choose Park Hopper or Park Hopper Plus at Walt Disney World?
Park Hopper is the better fit for families who want flexibility between the four Walt Disney World theme parks. Park Hopper Plus is worth it if your family will use the water parks, miniature golf, or other included options. If your schedule is already packed with theme park days, Park Hopper Plus sounds better than it works in practice.
Should military families buy Disneyland military tickets with Lightning Lane Multi Pass?
Disneyland military tickets with Lightning Lane Multi Pass are worth considering if your family wants to reduce wait times and simplify the planning budget before arrival. Disneyland’s compact layout makes park hopping and Lightning Lane use easier than at Walt Disney World in many situations.
Is Shades of Green better than a Disney Resort hotel?
Shades of Green is an excellent value for eligible military families, especially because of room size and military pricing. A Disney Resort is better if transportation convenience, walking access, Skyliner access, monorail access, Early Theme Park Entry, or Deluxe Extended Evening Hours are important to your family.
Can I combine Disney military room discounts with ticket discounts?
Yes, eligible military families may use Disney Military Salute Tickets and also book eligible military room discounts when available. Room discounts are limited and subject to availability.
What is the biggest mistake military families make with Disney Military Salute Tickets?
The biggest mistake is treating the ticket discount as the entire strategy. The ticket savings are valuable, but families also need to plan realistically for park reservations, hotel choice, transportation, food costs, Lightning Lane, pacing, and family energy.
Related Military Disney Planning Resources
- How to Purchase Military Discounted Theme Park Tickets: A Step-By-Step Guide
- Disney Armed Forces Salute Ticket Activation
- What’s the Difference Between Disney Armed Forces Salute and Disney Regular Military Discounted Tickets?
- How Disney’s Military Hotel Discounts Work
- Walt Disney World Resorts
- Disneyland Hotels
- Finding the Best Disney World Room Discount
- Military Discounts at Disney Springs
- Military Discounts at Downtown Disney
- Your Guide to Walt Disney World Transportation
- Using Uber and Lyft at Walt Disney World
- Walt Disney World’s Transportation and Ticket Center
- How to Get to Shades of Green
- Shades of Green Transit Navigator: Best Routes to Every Park, Resort & Disney Springs
- Shades of Green Overview
- Shades of Green Eligibility
- Shades of Green Room Rates
- How to Make Reservations at Shades of Green
- The Best Rooms at the Shades of Green
This article was written by Steve Bell, founder of Military Disney Tips.
Steve is a retired U.S. military member who has been visiting the Disney Parks since 1971 and writing about Disney military discounts and vacations for the military community for over 18 years.
Read Steve’s Full Bio | Follow Military Disney Tips on Facebook
I am going in August 2021 with my brother and his family. I purchased 3 tickets for my wife and son for a now canceled 2020 trip last March, if I purchase 5 for my brother’s family before February 14, 2021, will I be able to activate all 8 in August? I appreciate everything you do here and thank you for the advice and help
Hi Dan,
Thanks so much!
Yes, according to both Disney World and Shades of Green you will!
My mom who is a retired veteran called her base today trying to purchase the 2020 salute tickets and was told all bases are completely sold out of those and the new offer would be announced on 2/16 – has anyone been able to still purchase the 2020 salute tickets?
Hi Ashley,
Please see: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-armed-forces-salute/2021-disney-armed-forces-salute-ticket-update/
Just wanted to help you keep the disabled veteran info up to date. There are new disabled veteran cards this year and they no longer have the DAVPRM printed on it. They will now have 100% Disabled American Veteran printed on top. Also Referenced the site for you as well. thank you for all that you do.
-Nick
cac.mil/Next-Generation-Uniformed-Services-ID-Card/
Also forgot to mention, Expiration will also say INDEF.
Can I still get these discounts if I have the new 2021 DEERS 100% Disabled American Veteran card? Does not have the printed DAVPRM on it but still has the 100% DAV with the expiration being INDEF meaning never expiring (Permanent).
Hi Loreto,
Sorry, I’m not familiar with what a DEERS 100% Disabled American Veteran card is. You are not talking about an actual military ID I assume, like the ones on this page: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/walt-disney-world-military-discount-id-guide-for-veterans/
When will the 2022 prices be out for tickets? Any promotions for 2022?
HI there, see: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-armed-forces-salute/2022-disney-armed-forces-salute-timeline/
Hello! I am a 100% DAV. If I buy 6 tickets this year for Nov 2021, can my wife buy 3 more tickets?
Sorry for the confusion,
Jim
Hey Jim,
No, She can’t the limit for the Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets is 6 per offer period for the member, the spouse is in place of not in addition to.
You need to use the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way Tickets for the others.
See https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discount-theme-park-tickets/regular-military-discounted-magic-your-way-tickets/
Steve,
My wife and I, plus 1 grandson, will be visiting WDW/SoG in June 2022 for 9 days. In 2018, you posted info regarding “back-to-back” tickets ( https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/faq/can-i-use-the-disney-armed-forces-salute-tickets-back-to-back/#comments ).
For 2022, do you know if that advice/policy will remain valid? Can back-to-back tickets be purchased all at once from SoG ticket office?
Hopefully you understand how truly vital you and MDT are for military families!!!
Hey there Jim,
Good to hear from you again so soon!
And again thank you!!!
I have no inclination that Disney’s policy would change on this. They have allowed it since 2011.
Just be sure to compare the 2 Salute price vs the full length Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way Tickets or Stars and Stripes passes!
Have the 2022 military salute ticket details been released yet have been scouring the internet and asking the MCR here in Norfolk , the answer from them is they don’t think it will happen this year as Disney are in the process of clawing bask money , if they do retract this offer it would make good press as universal will still be doing their promotion in 2022
Hi Andrew,
This is my most recent update: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-armed-forces-salute/no-2022-wdw-disney-armed-forces-salute-so-far/
It would indeed be bad press for Disney to offer a Salute in Florida (they have in CA), but it would not be unprecedented, Universal Orlando did not offer their special, highly discounted military tickets the 2 years following the opening of their Harry Potter attractions, as they had no need to attract extra bodies (which is the primary purpose of all discounts).
Per my conversation yesterday with a booking agent at Disney, Pop Century is NOT included in the discount this year. She said that none of the properties with Skyliner access were eligible. You might double check that. I was disappointed for sure.
Hi Heather,
Yes, it turns out that Pop and CBR are excluded in 22. Riviera was excluded in 21 and is not in 22. And the suites at AoA are eligible as in previous years.
Thanks for the intel!
I read somewhere else that a change this year was that multi day tickets expire 14 days after they are first used, including the military tickets. I’m thinking that’s incorrect for the Salute tickets? We are wanting to use them over 2 separate trips. Also, can we purchase 3 of them for one trip, use a few days, then use the rest of our days on the next trip, but also purchase 3 more tickets during the second trip? Or do we need to purchase all 6 tickets at once? Thank you!
Hi Lynn,
There are 3 types of military tickets for WDW and 2 for DL.
The Disney Armed Forces Salute, these are the special highly discounted ones. They expire at the end of the offer period, for 2022 this is after 16 Dec. These do not retain their $ value after expiration.
The Regular Disney Military Ticket Discount for Walt Disney World and Disneyland, these are slightly discounted versions of general public tickets and they expire 14 days (WDW) and 13 days (DLR) after first use or 31 Dec 2022 (right now). They retain value after expiration. GP tickets have always expired 14 days after first use.
And at WDW there are the Shades of Green Stars and Stripes Passes, A Park Hopper Plus lite pass. These are a length of stay pass that expires the set number of days on the pass after first use.
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/the-disney-armed-forces-salute-military-ticket-and-room-discounts/
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discount-theme-park-tickets/shades-of-greens-stars-and-stripes-tickets/
You can use/purchase the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets just as you described.
My parents are going to Disney World in January. My family is going in July. Is there a way for my parents to purchase the memory maker with the military discount as a gift for my visit in July? Like can they bring my magic band and have it loaded to my account to use in July? I have an annual pass.
Hi Sarah,
Your parents would only be able to purchase memory maker with a military discount is one of them is currently in the military or retired from the military. A current mil ID is required.
I have MYW tickets, wondering if i can upgrade to stars and stripes? I wasnt aware it existed and I could buy them till today. If not can i upgrade to hoppers abd how much would it be please?
Hi Kuuipo,
It’s doubtful… The only way would be if you purchased your MYW through Shades of Green.
The Stars and Stripes is a Shades only product and they usually don’t like to mix if you got them elsewhere.
Give their Attraction Ticket Hotline a call at (407) 824-1403
Was looking into going to Disney world around Christmas time 2022. Are there any kind of Military discounts I can get?
Hi Kathleen,
So as you know, I think, the Disney Armed Forces Salute is not available at Christmas.
So the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way Tickets
See these two posts:
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discount-theme-park-tickets/regular-military-discounted-magic-your-way-tickets/
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/one-day-regular-military-discounted-magic-your-way-tickets-seasonal-pricing-begins/
And for rooms you might try Shades of Green:
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green-resort-at-walt-disney-world/
I am a DoD Civilian. Am I eligible or this discount? I’m eligible for all other discounts on/off Post.
Hi Jim,
Unfortunately not.
You are however eligible for stays at Shades of Green and to buy the regular discounted Disney tickets from Shades of Green’s or your base’s ticket office (those that do not require a military id for activation like these do)
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/shades-of-green-resort-at-walt-disney-world/
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/regular-disney-military-discount-for-walt-disney-world-and-disneyland-tickets/
Can I get a quote for the following
Tickets 4 and 5 day hopper
1x military retired
1x non retired veteran spouse
1x 14yr child
1x 9yr child
1x 7yr child
Hi Christopher, this is an informational website. I don’t sell tickets or give quotes…
Please read the post above for the prices for Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets and where to buy!
See my ticket overview page for info on other types of military tickets and where to buy.
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discount-theme-park-tickets/
I am thinking of planning a trip either January or February 2023 and am wondering just when the pricing and availability of armed forces salute tickets will be since 2022 tckets runs thru Dec.16th.
Hi Evelyn,
Prior to 2020 each new year’s Salute was announced in late September. Since 2020 things have been wacky. I’d hope that if they offer a 2023 Salute they would go back to the standard late Sept announcement.
I am currently in the National Guard. I am trying to buy the armed forces salute tickets ahead of time to start making park reservations. When I do go on my trip, I will be on IRR status. The list of IDs shows my IRR ID card is eligible however I read somewhere it’s not. How will this work if I did buy it while active but using it while I’m on IRR.
Hi Mezekiel,
As far as I’m aware since the inception of the Disney Armed Forces Salutes in 2009, the IRR has not been eligible. The discount is for current/participating AD and Guard/Reserve as well as retired members. In the early days Disney used to explicitly say this. In the very early days they even tried to say you had to be on long orders to qualify.
Buying the tickets while eligible and using after you separate is not part of the deal. If you separate you have left the job that allows this discount (even if told to keep your uniforms cause they might call you).
You might get lucky with the ID check, I don’t know… depends on the cast member and it’s not guaranteed.
The totally legit way is to buy the Regular Disney Military Ticket Discount for Walt Disney World and Disneyland, which as you may know offer much less of a discount but can be used by anyone after purchase by an eligible member.
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discount-theme-park-tickets/regular-military-discounted-magic-your-way-tickets/
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discount-theme-park-tickets/disneyland-military-discounted-theme-park-tickets/
Reach out via my email contact form for other possible options…
Hi! We’re planning on taking 2 trips this year. Disneyland (our first time!) in May and then WDW in July. We will only be spending 2 days at the parks each trip. Can we use 1 four day pass interchangeably at Disneyland and WDW or would we have to buy 2 separate sets of tickets? TIA! Love the site!
Hi Raven,
Thanks so much!
Sadly the two offers are totally separate, so you’ll need to purchase for each destination.
At Disneyland you’ll want the 3-day Salute Ticket as the 2-day regular military tickets are more expensive.
At Disney World, while the 4-day Salute Tickets are slightly higher ($18) than the 2-day regular military tickets, you might want to opt for that if you think you’ll do any parks on arrival or departure days.
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discount-theme-park-tickets/regular-military-discounted-magic-your-way-tickets/
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discount-theme-park-tickets/disneyland-military-discounted-theme-park-tickets/
Hi,
I work for the USSF, and a coworker of mine is retiring after over 20 years in the service. He is a huge fan of Star Wars/the Mandalorian, and I was wondering if there was anything that could be done for/gifted to this individual for his long tenure of service.
Thanks in advance!
Hi Sam,
I need a few more specifics. You did not mention either of your statuses, are you both active duty, reserve, guard, AGRs, DoD civs, contractors or what? I need to know for each.
Thanks, Steve
Hi,
Apologies, we are both active duty, but he is retiring!
Hey, no worries Sam. I just needed that to be able to refine my answer based on Disney’s rules for some of my ideas.
The sky is literally the limit on the value you could offer to your friend. My ideas will be vacation oriented as that’s the focus of the site.
The easiest and most customizable would be a Disney Gift Card, you can buy physical ones from ShopDisney and select a Star Wars image. You can pick any denomination between 25 and 500 dollars. He could use this towards Disney lodging, meals, or merch on a Disney vacation. Also in the Disney store or on ShopDisney (the new name for the Disney Store Online).
There is also lots of Star Wars merch on Shop Disney.
Escalating steeply from there would be tickets or hotel stays.
If they have not used 2022 Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets and plans to go prior to 16 Dec 2022, you could purchase some of these tickets. Up to the 6-ticket limit.
Otherwise, you could purchase the Regular Disney Military Ticket Discount for Walt Disney World or Disneyland. these offer less savings.
Even more would be resort stays or a stay in the Star Wars Galactic Cruiser….
Realistically, the gift card is probably your best option as they could use it for anything Disney/SW related unless there is a cool figure or something you find on ShopDisney.
Thank you for your help!
Hi Steve! My hubby is active duty and we are both annual pass holders for WDW. We decided to take our nieces and nephew for the first time this year. I bought tickets at our ITT and was told that I would not be able to use my AP—that either my hubby or I would have to use a salute ticket to activate the others.
Honestly, I thought the lady was misinformed as I have been an AP for 7 years and have bought salute tickets for family and friends (obviously when traveling with them).
Low and behold, when reading the fine print, she was right. Do you know why the change was made? Or of anyone who has run into this issue?
Since I spend so much money at Disney each year, I’m a little miffed to hear of this change. We are essentially being double charged to enter the park….
Had we known this, we would have not purchased an AP for my husband and rather would have done 2 salute tickets for the year or leveraged a FL resident ticket.
Hi Kristie,
There has been no change. Disney has always had a whole slew of unpublished rules and exceptions to the limited info they put online regarding the Salute Tickets.
Pass holders like you and me are an exception to the member needing to have their own Salute Ticket (for just the reason you stated, we already pay way more).
I hope you didn’t buy that extra ticket! Base Ticket Office workers mean well, but they get zero official training on the Disney discounts and often fly by the seat of their pants.
Steve, thank you!! I did not purchase the additional ticket and actually called Disney to get escalated to ensure that we were good to go! We are, and I’m so happy to have additional confirmation from you! Thanks, again!
Awesome. My pleasure!
Hi, Steve – I noticed on a base Facebook page that the start date for Disneyland 2023 Salute was noted as Jan 9, not the 1st. I looked on Disneyland’s website and it indeed states Jan. 9. Just thought I’d share in case you knew if it was mistyped or if it’s valid so you can update the article.
Hi Danelle,
Yes, you are correct. Sorry about the errors, which I’ve fixed.
I appreciate it!
Hi there. I have used the information in this website for years. Thank you. We are having trouble making advanced reservations in the app with salute tickets. Other members of our party with regular tickets could make reservations for March 2023, but our salute tickets will not allow. Disney says it’s because the tickets have to be used within a 14 day window, and we already have reservations for two days in January (when they will be activated). The 14 day window should not apply! Anyone have any advice? We have called and spoke with two different people. Very frustrated. Thanks!
Hi Maureen,
You are correct the 14 day window absolutely does not apply. I’ve not experienced this issue myself.
I’d suggest making one more call to the Disney Internet Help Desk at 800-848-6413, option #3 and see if they can assist.
Another option might be to delete the earlier reservations, make the later ones and see if you can make the earlier again.
My hubby just bought 4 tickets (5 day park hoppers) for a trip this February. We have have older children, not dependants anymore and just realized we can get tickeket for friends so we can use those for them. Can we still get buy 2 more sets of park hoppers even if they are purchased seperately?
Hi Holly, the limit is 6 per member, so unless you are military/retired also, then no.
You can get 2 more Salute Tickets, and the rest would need to be a Regular Military Discounted Disney Ticket, see: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discount-theme-park-tickets/regular-military-discounted-magic-your-way-tickets/
Hi Steve,
Last year, we went to WDW with the Armed Forces Salute passes that included Genie+. Is Genie+ not available to add on to the purchase for 2023? I can’t find a clear answer anywhere.
Thank you for all your amazing information!
Hi Devon,
Mid 2022 Disney World stopped offering Genie+ as part of any ticket, that applied to the Disney Armed Forces Salute too. They stopped selling Salute tickets with Gene at that time, but honored any that had already been sold.
Genie+ is only available for purchase at Disney World day-by-day as a in app purchase.
Disney did that because of all of the complaints about the cost of Genie+ vs the value. Many were only getting 1 good attraction late in the day and the attractions that they could reserve were ones that had short waits anyway.
Honestly I never recommended getting Genie+ as part of a ticket. You don’t need it at every park. Doing rope drop at the early entry time is often more effective. I’ve never purchased Genie+ for Animal Kingdom.
Disney World also recently decreased from 2 to 1 lightning lane extra purchases in order to move 1 more ride at each park into Genie+ to add a little more value.
Disneyland however still sells tickets (including Salute) with Genie+. They haven’t have the value issue there.
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-genie-and-genie-service/
Thank you for clarifying! We just recently decided to go again this year so I’m a little out of the loop and hadn’t been following these changes. You are always so helpful!
My pleasure! Glad to help.
Hello,
I am a retired Marine and bought 4 tickets to go to California in this month, one of those for my active duty Son in which he is stationed in California. Unfortunately my Son can no longer because he is training for the next two months. What can I do or call about the ticket I will not be able to use or can I transfer it to him, thanks.
Hi Alberto,
You can just give the Disney Armed Forces Salute ticket to your son. He will have through the end of the offer (15 Dec 2023 to use it).
The ticket is linked to a person upon activation at Disney, not during the purchase.
Is there a discount to be had for military personnel staying less than 4 days? My family is planning a trip for only 3 days at Disney World and we’re wondering if we’re still eligible for any discount on the tickets
Hi Rylan,
While the Disney Armed Forces Salute room discounts say length of stay requirements may apply, I’ve never experienced any!
However finding dates that the discount is available for your desired resort and room type has become more challenging over the years.
See this post for why: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/how-disney-armed-forces-salute-room-discounts-work/
Oh, I was asking more about the ticket prices for the park! Like, is there a general percentage discount for park tickets that military families can get?
Hey Rylan,
Gotcha, sorry the word stay vs something like park days keyed me in on room discounts.
There are also the Regular Military Discounted Tickets for Disney World and Disneyland. These offer way less savings and in some cases even though they are the length you want offer a higher price than the 4 day.
There are multiple posts on the site on making the right choice. See:
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/military-discount-theme-park-tickets/regular-military-discounted-magic-your-way-tickets/
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/whats-the-right-military-discounted-disney-ticket-for-me/
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/what-percentage-is-the-military-discount-for-disney-world/
how does ITT get all of your information to link you to your tickets? do they collect that information when they call you after you submit the online order form?
Hi Ashley,
You are confusing linking with activating. They are 2 totally different processes that serve different purposes.
Activating which Shades of Green does, as does Disney for tickets sold at Base Ticket Offices, turns the tickets on for use at Disney’s entry points. It also ties the number of Salute tickets activated to the specific military member for tracking the 6-ticket limit. Base ITTs can’t do this.
Linking any type of ticket to your My Disney Experience account has to be done by you or someone who is “friends & family” for your account. This links a ticket to an individual person for various Disney online purposes (making park reservations, 60-day plus 10 advance dining reservations, buying Genie+ or Individual Lightning Lane purchases for example).
I hope this clears it up!
Aloha Steve,
My husband is a 100% DAV trying to purchase 2023 Disneyland Armed Forces Salute Tickets at our local base office. It seems many still do not know the eligibility for these tickets. Even the Disneyland site makes no mention of 100% DAV. https://disneyland.disney.go.com/offers-discounts/military-tickets-discount-2023/
Do you know where I may find that info to provide to the ITT staff and hopefully get them to update their policy?
Your site provides so much info that we can’t find anywhere else. I’m always telling people about it. Keep up the good work!
Thanks so much,
Jeanette
Hi Jeanette,
Thank you so much! I do so appreciate the recommendations.
Communication has always been poor both within Disney and to their military ticket resale parters.
100% DAV have always been part to the individuals allowed to buy Salute Tickets. Unfortunately this group is never mentioned online by Disney on their sites. The only place I’ve seen it in writing is on the ID card cheat sheet used by WDW ticket sales that WDW also shares with Shades of Green.
I have a copy of the sheet here: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discount-id-guide/
Have you tried using Camp Pendleton long distance?
https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discounts/buy-military-discounted-disney-tickets-by-phone/
This website states, “The Disney Armed Forces Salute offers Disney theme park tickets at over half off the regular price and Disney resort rooms at up to a 30% to 40% discount!”.
First of all, Armed Forces Salute has been replaced by another program.
Theme park ticks are only offered through Shades of Green at up to 14% discount, NOT over 50%. Big difference and very misleading.
Not all resorts offer military discounts either, so up to 30%-40% can also include 0%.
We’re staying at Caribbean Beach and there is no military discount at this and other specific resorts.
Hi Nathaniel,
Just think, the internet held such promise when it was conceived. At the time it was thought that this new technology would connect us globally and that the super fast transfer of information that would be at our fingertips would literally make us more intelligent and informed in ways that we could never imagine.
Sadly that’s not how it turned out. Instead, ignorant novices like yourself can lash out in a totally nasty and uncalled for manner while displaying their lack of knowledge and understanding, when a polite comment asking why an expert who has covered this topic professionally for 15 years might hold a position different than theirs. Imagine, there just might be some information that you are unaware of, as in this case.
The Disney Armed Forces Salute has absolutely not been replaced, Disney and Base Ticket Offices sometimes refer to these special tickets as Military Promotional Tickets, but they are indeed Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets!
Son, you are talking about the Regular Military Discounted Magic Your Way Tickets, not the Salute Tickets. That seems to be the crux of your confusion. The prices for Disney Armed Forces Salute Tickets at Shades of Green and other Military Resellers (Base Ticket Offices) range between a savings of 32.57% to 53.20% depending on ticket type (4-day hopper, 4-day hopper plus, 5-day hopper, & 5-day hopper plus), what date in 2023 you are talking about, and what the age of the individual you are talking about (3-9 yrs, or 10+), as Disney’s ticket prices vary a lot by date and also by age.
Yep, Skyliner Resorts are not eligible for the Disney Armed Forces Salute this year. Did you know that if you read this page you made the comment on that you would see at which resorts the Disney Armed Forces Salute room discount is valid and at which it is not. Also if you’d read my post on How the Disney Armed Forces Salute Room Discounts Work (which is linked from this page several times) you’d be better prepared to have a thoughtful discussion, or to know what’s going on and just keep quiet.
Best of luck with your life moving forward, you seem to have a lot of work to do on yourself.
Hi,
Do you offer discounts to British serving military please?
Thank you
Hi Steve,
I don’t offer any discounts, I’m a retired US military member who provides information (see the disclaimer in the footer of every page).
But, please see: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/are-there-foreign-military-member-disney-discounts/
My son is in the Royal Navy, based at Mayport Jacksonville. He will be there for a couple of months. Will he be eligible for military discount disney world tickets?
Hi Kim,
If he’s issued a US Identification like the one in the ID card image (bottom right ID) on this page: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-military-discount-id-guide/
I know. I know. Silly question, but I have to ask. Do you have any idea when/if Disney plans on releasing the military discounts for tickets and resorts for 2024? It seems they’ve abandoned their old tradition of the third Thursday in September.
Hey there Peggy,
Not silly at all. I get it numerous times every year.
Please see: https://www.militarydisneytips.com/blog/disney-armed-forces-salute/when-will-disney-renew-the-disney-armed-forces-salute-for-2024/
I was so happy to hear that Disney was ending the park reservation rule in January, and now we have the disappointing news that this will still apply for military tickets… what is up with this? It also leaves me wondering if Disney will still enforce the 2 pm park hopping as well. We are staying at SOG in February and we have to deal with the closed walkway to the Poly, and now this. I feel strongly that Disney really dropped the ball with this decision, singling out military tickets. I am grateful for the discounted tickets, but this doesn’t set right with me. I doubt it will do any good but I will send off an email to them to express my dismay.
Hi JoAnn,
Yes, it is disappointing news. Disney World lumped military salute tickets in with the whole list of tickets that will still require reservations.
I was hoping that they would be kind to our community and not require them. I mean how many military folks are there on a daily basis? Surely not enough to make attendance in a single park unbearable!
Theme Park Reservation Required
Student group tickets
Sport and Convention ticket
Disney Military Salute Ticket
Annual Pass
All other ticket types not mentioned above
Hello Steve,
We are a military family completely eligible to buy Military Salute Tickets for 2024. I have a large amount of Disney Points from my Disney Visa Account and I would love to use these points/dollars to buy our family’s tickets. We have 6 children (all dependents) and in the past we have always had to buy the last couple tickets at Disneyland’s ticket booth. However we have not been to Disneyland since 2019, (Hence the reason I have so many points saved up) and I am wondering what has changed, Can I possibly buy all my Salute tickets at Disneyland’s ticket booth? If you know this answer, can you send me a link to where you found this info? I would hate to get to the park without this info and have to buy regular tickets. The only thing I can find about this subject on Disneyland’s website is the following:
“Eligibility
This offer is available to active and retired US military personnel or their spouses…. Valid military identification will be required for purchase and use. This offer is only valid through a US military base ticket office. ”
The last sentence is what is making me hesitant and would like help finding the actual answer.
Thanks, Robin
Hi Robin,
Disney certainly is bad about getting all the details out about the military Salute tickets!
And I love the Disney Visa! We recently re-floored our whole house and use it to pay!
I have to preface what I say with, it has been many, many years since I have purchased Salute tickets in person at Disney. At Disneyland probably 2016 or 2017, way before that at WDW. This due to FastPass+ and then Theme Park Reservations.
That last time at DL was at my Disney hotel front desk when checking in.
Since, I’ve always purchased long distance, for DL with Camp Pendelton and for WDW the Patrick ITT or Shades of Green.
So here are 2 things to consider.
I have heard from a reader, but not experienced myself, or officially from Disney, that DL no longer sells the Salute tickets there due to the need for theme park reservations.
Disney World has the same statement on their Salute ticket webpage. AND, I’m at Disney World now, so will ask at MK today and see what answer I get and check back here. with you tonight to let you know about here.
I’m assuming that you are staying off property as you won’t be using it for the hotel and that you’d like to use it up or most of it and food and merchants won’t do that, correct?
So, today I asked Guest Relations at the MK entrance if they still sold the Disney Armed Forces Salute tickets and they do.
So WDW has the “only on base” statement on their Salute page and does sell them in person.
This is no guarantee however that Disneyland, an entirely different company under the Disney umbrella will be the same.
So, some help but not much… I wish I could do more.
Try reaching out and getting something in writing (email or printed chat) that says they sell them!
Thanks Steve,
I appreciate your quick responses. All the answers I have received from Disneyland (phone call and chat) are a flat. “We do not sell any military tickets at the parks.”
In the past we always got at our “extras for our big family” at the park (paid for with points), so the answers seem unrealistic to me. I saw your post saying they want us to get all our tickets (even big families) through our base ticket offices. I will try that route. Do you have any experience with any of the remote locations you have mentioned that ship tickets? Do you know if any of them are willing to sell to big families without too much hassle? We all know that turn over in the military is pretty quick, so it might be a journey whichever way I try.
Thank you for looking into this for me. I am super tempted to just buy airline tickets and head to Florida as it sounds like I can buy them at the park with my points there. And I could pay for my airline tickets as well with points. (Yes I probably have enough points for that), However, flying across the country for a 3 day park trip doesn’t seem worth the hassle and we only have time for 3 days.
Sorry for the novel. It looks like we will head to the park, have all our food and shopping covered with points and still have plenty left for another trip somewhere another time. It will be great and we will have a blast!
Thanks again – Robin
Hi again Robin,
I’m sorry everything I know about large families is through an old contact at Disney that has dried up (Disney no longer cares to communicate with me after having a mutually beneficial relationship for years) and from what other families have shared with me over the years, all of which is in that post you referred to.
I’m always glad to help!
Let me know how it all shakes out so that I can share.
Thank you for highlighting the Disney Armed Forces Salute! It’s always great to see how Disney shows appreciation for military members. The discounts on tickets and rooms can make a huge difference for families looking to enjoy the magic of Disney. I can’t wait to plan our next trip using these tips!
Thank you for sharing these fantastic tips! It’s great to see Disney acknowledging the sacrifices of our military families. I can’t wait to plan our next visit and take advantage of the discounts. Your insights on booking and timing are super helpful!
Hi, Steve – Any experience if Salute tickets that have been used for a day or two but not fully used before the expiration date are allowed those unused/expired days of credit towards the following year, or a different ticket type?
Thanks!
Hi Danelle,
So, using part of a Salute ticket and then using the remainder during the same offer period for that ticket is no issue. I do it all the time.
It’s technically against the rules to use any of a Salute ticket in a different offer, say the 2025 ticket in 2026. These tickets expire at the end of the offer and lose all cash value (technically you can’t use unused days towards anything else).
Having said that, Disney has bent these rules on a case by case basis. Usually for fully unused tickets. They started this in 2021 for covid cancellations, and I’ve heard occasionally from thise who has done it since.
You’d need to plead that there were extenuating circumstances why you couldn’t use the remaining days, instead of just staying longer. Documantation of why always helps! I really don’t know about a partially used ticket…
You can try calling, some have had past calendar year tickets converted to the current year over the phone (you can check after in the My Disney Experience app to make sure they did it they year will change on the ticket).The most recent examles I’ve heard were over the phone. You used to have to do it in person.
All of this would be contingent on there being a 2026 Salute offer.
I would really appreciate hearing back after it is all over to hear how it went, to better help others in the future!
Thanks, Steve! I actually don’t have the scenario but wondered if it would work should I run into that this year. I don’t want to buy the Salute if I can’t use all of it, but it is hard to know if I’ll be back to use it before the next year. So, I may just play it safe with a 1-2 day ticket…still deciding. But, I will for sure let you know if I get the Salute and don’t use it all and try it out! I have purchased Salute every year for the past 10 and the Magic Your Way over the holidays. I just hate that I can’t get the new MYW anywhere else with no tax (aside from Shades but they take so long!) yet since systems are switching over, and of course the Salute is just a better deal! Thanks again!
You bet Danelle,
Just keep in mind that the Salute could be a better deal even if you don’t use it all, just depends on the length and type of Military Theme Park Ticket you want and now what dates you go… Always price compare.
Thank you for sharing this detailed guide on the Disney Armed Forces Salute! It’s great to see such significant discounts for our military members. I can’t wait to plan our trip to Disney World and take advantage of these offers. Your tips on booking and accommodations are super helpful!
Thank you for sharing all these amazing tips on the Disney Armed Forces Salute! It’s fantastic to see how much Disney honors our military members. I never knew about the ticket and room discounts available! This will definitely help us plan a special trip to the parks. Appreciate the detailed information!
I have a question about the Park Hopper Plus tickets and the blockout dates. So I got the 5-Day Park Hopper Plus tickets for me and my family. We used 3 days in the summer, and we are planning on going back in November. I see that there are blockout dates from 23-29 November 2025. I know that the park days are blocked off, but are the water park plus parts of the tickets also blocked off?
For example, could I use the last two park days of my ticket on 21-22 November, and then use the plus parts of the ticket at the water parks between 23-29 November?
Thanks!
Mike
Hi Mike,
Unfortunately, the Disney Armed Forces Salute (Military Promotional) Tickets will not work anywhere (including the water parks) on Blockout dates.
This is an incredible initiative by Disney! It’s so great to see them honoring our armed forces with special discounts. I’ve always wanted to take my family to Disney, and knowing that there are military discounts available makes it much more feasible. Thank you for sharing this info!
Thank you for sharing this information! The Armed Forces Salute is such a fantastic opportunity for military families to enjoy Disney at a more affordable price. I appreciate the detailed tips on how to maximize the benefits – it really helps in planning our next trip!
Thank you for sharing this information! The Armed Forces Salute is such a generous offer. I appreciate how you’ve detailed the ticket and room discounts. It’s great to see Disney support military families in this way. Can’t wait to plan our trip for 2026!
Thank you for sharing these details about the Disney Armed Forces Salute! It’s great to see such wonderful discounts being offered. We’re planning a family trip to Disney next year, and these tips will definitely help us save while making unforgettable memories. Can’t wait to explore everything Disney has to offer!