Alright friends, Disneyland Annual Pass Program(AP) is a thing of the past and the NEW MAGIC KEY(MK) Program has taken its place. The namesake is a throwback to the Pre-1968 coupon book that allowed guests access to any ONE ride or attraction. Free admission to the park with coupons to rides and attractions seems almost laughable now. But, this new Magic Key program is exactly what some people have been looking for since the AP program went away. The Disneyland website describes the Magic Key Reservation System as a “cornerstone components of the Magic Key program” which leads us to believe there is more to come…which we hope for....since we are already curious about MaxPass and PhotoPass. The system will be located on the same app we currently use to visit Disneyland, but with exclusive access to opportunities for Magic Key members. During this first launch of information on Magic Key we know there are a few perks to being a MK holder. MK holders will have access to discounts on food and merchandise in the parks as well as Downtown Disney, special dining experiences, access to the Magic Key Terrace with a custom menu, exclusive festival offerings, a special MK month(bringing back the hugely missed AP appreciation program), specialty merchandise, early access to events, Photopass opportunities, and exclusive embroidery options for those mouse ears. Speculation also indicates some pretty cool perks if you are a charter member. If you become a MK holder within the first 66 days(as the 66th anniversary of Disneyland occurs) you will receive a special welcome package. The package will include a specialty pin, celebratory button, magnet, and more. MK holders who enter Disneyland will also have access to a limited time experience at Starcade in Tomorrowland(starting Sept 1) with charging stations, photo opportunity, and other fun surprises. If all of this sounds amazing, you can begin purchasing your pass August 25, 2021 at 10 am PT . Remember, to be a charter member, you’ll want to buy before October 30, 2021. You’re pass won’t officially start until you use it, but you’ll want to hop onboard to be eligible for these charter member perks. It’s actually possible to purchase your pass, AND make a reservation, and be in the park as a charter member ON August 25. That’s right…you still need a reservation. Since the park opening post pandemic, you need a reservation. The new MK takes these reservations into consideration. Gone are the days(as of right now) of just deciding to drive to the parks for an evening adventure. Some of the fine print states “Theme park reservations and valid pass for the same park on the same date are required for park entry. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability, public health orders, and applicable pass blockout dates, and are not guaranteed for any specific dates or park. Additionally, park reservations may not be available on select holidays for certain theme parks at any time.” This post pandemic system also only allows park hopping after 1:00 pm(unless indicated differently in the app). Now, you have to decide which Magic Key is right for you. In true Disney fashion there isn’t just ONE magic key. You have 4 options. Let’s see what they are, and decide which one will be best for your family.