If you’re an Annual Passholder at Disney World, you know the perks can feel like a golden ticket to extra magic—and May is shaping up to be one of those months where that pass is working overtime, especially at EPCOT. From collectible freebies to exclusive hangouts, Passholders are getting more reasons than ever to stroll through the park’s iconic gates. But these May-specific extras are just the cherry on top of the year-round benefits Passholders enjoy.
Let’s talk about what’s going on this month at EPCOT and why Passholders are flocking there in droves.
May Madness at EPCOT for Passholders
It all starts with the kind of freebie Passholders can’t resist: a new limited-edition magnet. Disney has tapped none other than Maleficent herself as the star of this season’s Annual Passholder magnet. Starting May 14th and running through July 31st, Passholders can head over to the Creations Shop in EPCOT and pick up this exclusive souvenir. Just make sure you bring your valid Annual Pass and matching ID—oh, and hustle, because these magnets tend to vanish faster than you can say “bibbidi-bobbidi-boo.”
But the perks don’t stop at the merch. Disney’s also giving Passholders a cool place to chill—literally. As part of V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days, Passholders can escape the Florida heat inside the Morocco pavilion’s Restaurant Marrakesh. This pop-up lounge runs from May 14th through July 13th, offering air conditioning, places to charge your phone, a complimentary button, and some fun PhotoPass backdrops. It’s a cozy little oasis tucked away from the crowds, and best of all—it’s completely free for Passholders.
EPCOT is also going through a bit of a transformation. CommuniCore Hall is temporarily closing on May 12th to make way for the GoofyCore Play Experience. While the new experience officially kicks off on May 27th and runs through September 1st, the closure is brief, and the adjacent CommuniCore Plaza and Mickey & Friends meet-and-greet will remain open. This Goofy-led party is part of Disney’s broader “Cool Kid Summer” offerings and will include silly games and DJ-fueled dance parties, giving families a chance to let loose with Goofy himself.
And don’t forget, May is the last chance to snag Passholder-exclusive merchandise tied to the EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival. This festival wraps up on June 2nd, and if you want any of the limited-edition items, this is your window to act.
Plus, Disney just dropped a new Passholder-exclusive tumbler featuring artwork by Joey Chou. It’s non-refillable but comes with your choice of a non-alcoholic drink and is available at select spots around the parks, including EPCOT’s Connections Eatery and Regal Eagle Smokehouse. You can even snag it through mobile order on the My Disney Experience app—while supplies last, of course.
The Bigger Picture: Why Being an Annual Passholder is Still Worth It
While all these EPCOT-specific perks are definitely pulling Passholders to the park this month, it’s worth remembering that being a Disney World Annual Passholder comes with year-round magic. Sure, the pass isn’t exactly cheap—especially with recent price increases—but for many, the extras make it a worthwhile investment.
One of the big draws is the steady stream of exclusive merch, magnets, and buttons that make every visit feel a little more personal. Passholders also get to tap into special dining and merchandise discounts throughout the resort, which can really add up, especially if you’re the type who loves to collect Disney goodies or indulge in table-service meals.
Parking? That’s covered too. Passholders don’t have to pay for standard theme park parking, which can save you quite a bit over multiple trips.
There’s also the flexibility factor. With blockouts varying depending on the pass type you choose, locals and frequent visitors can pop into the parks without worrying about individual ticket costs. It’s especially handy for EPCOT festivals like the Flower and Garden or Food and Wine, where you might want to make multiple short visits rather than spending an entire day.
Plus, Disney sweetens the deal by throwing in exclusive PhotoPass opportunities throughout the year. Whether it’s a unique backdrop or a surprise Magic Shot, these extras make it easy to keep those theme park memories fresh and fun.
Disney also often creates lounges like the one at Restaurant Marrakesh, offering Passholders a special spot to take a break during peak seasons. These little touches—cool air, comfy chairs, a free button—might not sound like much on paper, but when you’re deep into a hot, crowded park day, they feel like VIP treatment.
And let’s not forget the sense of community. There’s a certain camaraderie among Passholders. Whether it’s bonding over that new magnet design or swapping tips about hidden Mickeys, being part of the Passholder crowd adds an extra layer of connection to the Disney experience.
Is It All Worth the Price Tag?
Of course, these perks—and May’s extra goodies—don’t come without a price. Disney has been gradually increasing the cost of Annual Passes, and some fans have started to wonder if the value is still there. But for those who visit frequently, the math often still works in the Passholder’s favor, especially when you take into account the discounts, parking savings, and those priceless little perks like exclusive events and merchandise drops.
EPCOT in May is just one example of how Disney keeps the Annual Passholder experience feeling fresh. From Maleficent magnets to Goofy dance parties, it’s a month that’s bursting with Passholder-only fun. And when you factor in the year-round benefits, it’s easy to see why so many Disney fans still proudly flash that yellow card.
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