Magic Key Moms Has Released the Statement Regarding D…
Magic Key Moms Has Released the Statement Regarding D…
On behalf of all Magic Key Moms, we wish to speak directly and transparently about the recent settlement concerning the Dream Key segment of the Magic Key pass program. As many of you know, Disneyland promised unrestricted access to passholders who purchased the Dream Key. However, through a reservation system that favored single-day ticket buyers, numerous passholders found themselves blocked out from dates they believed were fully inclusive. The case was brought forward by Dream Key holder Jenale Nielsen in December 2021. She alleged Disneyland misrepresented “no blackout dates” while systematically capping Magic Key reservations, preventing passholders from visiting even when park capacity remained open .
In July 2023, Disney agreed to settle this federal class-action lawsuit for $9.5 million. The settlement covered approximately 103,435 Dream Key holders, resulting in payments of about $67.41 each Following final court approval in March 2024, announcements to eligible passholders began soon afterward, with funds issued through methods like Venmo, PayPal, direct deposit, or mailed checks
Magic Key Moms stands firmly by the community of Disneyland parents and caregivers who trusted the value of their passes. Many families—especially those relying on the Dream Key for frequent, flexible visits—felt deeply let down when reservation blocks undermined the pass’s intended promise. This was more than an inconvenience; it affected meticulously planned family time, disrupted traditions, and caused undue emotional stress.
Furthermore, while Disneyland denied any wrongdoing, the agreed-upon settlement and subsequent changes clearly acknowledge that the Disney messaging around “no blackout dates” was, at minimum, misleading in practice . We recognize that the settlement only partially reimbursed families for their disappointments, and it’s critical to note that legal fees and administrative costs consumed a significant portion—Disneyland Moms believe communities should be aware of the disparity between what was promised and what was delivered.
In response, Magic Key Moms issued this statement:
“We acknowledge the settlement funds will not undo the lost memories or the stress faced by Magic Key families. However, this outcome highlights the importance of transparency and accountability from Disneyland. We are committed to ensuring Disneyland truly upholds its promises moving forward—especially regarding reservation policies and transparent communications.”
In the months following the settlement:
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Discontinuation of Dream Key — Disneyland replaced it with the Inspire Key, which now includes explicit blackout dates. They further removed “no blackout dates” language from all official Magic Key descriptions and added clauses requiring passholders to waive class-action rights upon purchase .
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Reservation System Adjustments — While some changes were made, the reservation system remains in place. Magic Key Moms continues to advocate for reserve-first policies and clearer real-time availability. Online forums still echo frustrations from passholders who feel that reservation spaces are unfairly prioritized for daily ticket buyers .
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Pass Sales and Pricing Trends — Disneyland has since paused some tiers from being sold (e.g., Dream, Believe at times) and incrementally increased prices for remaining tiers. Many families report that benefits no longer align with rising costs, prompting cancellations and a decline in renewals.
Magic Key Moms remains vigilant. Our mission is to monitor Disneyland’s policies, ensure value and transparency are reinstated, and advocate for families whose trust was compromised. While the settlement granted some restitution, it also set a precedent: Disneyland must align its promises with its practices. We encourage all current and former Magic Key passholders to stay informed, share their experiences, and hold Disneyland accountable—so that future generations can truly trust the magic they buy into.
Together, we’ll continue to champion a fair, family-first experience at Disneyland.
— Magic Key Moms
