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Being a Disney annual passholder is about more than just theme park admission

By Cristine Struble

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 30: A person walks into an entrance to Disneyland on September 30, 2020 in Anaheim, California. Disney is laying off 28,000 workers amid the toll of the COVID-19 pandemic on theme parks. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)
ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 30: A person walks into an entrance to Disneyland on September 30, 2020 in Anaheim, California. Disney is laying off 28,000 workers amid the toll of the COVID-19 pandemic on theme parks. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images) /
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With Disneyland stopping its annual passholder option, the loss is more than just theme park admission.

For many people being a Disney annual passholder is being part of a community. As many people feel the shock of Disneyland annual passes ending, the loss is about more than just the inability to be part of the Disney magic. Many people feel that they are losing their connection to a bigger community.

There are many reasons why people become an annual passholder. For some, the benefit of visiting their favorite theme park frequently is important. Whether it is the local who visits to enjoy a special treat or even just to people-watch, that substantial price tag is recouped after a few visits.

For others, the annual passholder status is their connection to the theme park that they visit only periodically. While some people plan an epic vacation to an exotic locale, others prefer the familiarity of going back to that Disney resort and theme park year after year.

Many Disney fans look forward to that annual visit. Whether it is stepping back onto It’s a Small World and feeling the sense of comfort or finding a new experience, like the reimagined Snow White attraction, the Disney magical moments draw them back time and again.

Lastly, there are some people who think of that annual passholder status as being part of a community. Disney fans are extremely loyal. From anxiously awaiting the newest merchandise drop to anticipating the next news tidbit, that special card is more than just getting you through the turnstiles. It is like being a member of a club.

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Looking at online communities, annual passholders are a close-knit group. From sharing favorite memories to supporting each other during difficult times, that theme park admission card is the connecting factor. People might be thousands of miles away and have different backgrounds, but they have a common love.

While the Disneyland decision has business implications, the loyal fans see it as something more. Although they have not been able to experience a rope drop, take a picture with Mickey or experience that thrill of Space Mountain, they still felt connected to that Disney Magic.

Although there is not a definite reopening date for Disneyland, Disney is anticipating new attractions to open in 2021. From the reimagined Snow White ride to the highly anticipated Marvel Campus, many people were hoping to experience these attractions this year.

With the annual passes going away, some people might have to wait to experience these attractions. Also, it could be a way for Disney Parks to better control admission.

As seen in Florida, annual passholders have had ups and downs with the reservation system. While 2021 has been off to a strong start for the Disney Parks, there is some adjustment. But, Florida is a different scenario than California.

Still, annual passholders will return at some point. The community of annual passholders will try to find a way of staying connected. Until then, people will have to create some Disney magic in their own home.

Related Story. As the Disney Magical Express ends, a new era begins. light

What do you think of the Disney decision? Do you think that other theme parks will soon follow?

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