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Just for starters, this is an opinion-based article, not a case of spreading 'Fake News'.

Earlier this year, I did not consider the possibility of Disney bringing back the Disney Dining Plan or offering Free Disney Dining. However, Disney has had a tough year with several challenges, such as the streaming business losing money, political disputes with the state of Florida, inflation, and a cost of living crisis, which are all affecting Walt Disney World. The company has also experienced record lows in the stock market over the past few months, with no sign of improvement anytime soon.

As a result, Walt Disney World attendance figures have declined this year, and there are concerns about an ongoing decrease in numbers. Although some of this was due to travel restrictions during the COVID pandemic, Disney is worried about a continued decline.

Disney has acknowledged that numbers look bleak for next year, and reintroducing the Disney Dining Plan was the first significant indication that attendance figures might be less than expected. In the UK and the rest of Europe, the deals for this year were better than anticipated, with Disney Dining credits up from the previous year and accommodations priced lower than expected.

However, the most significant indication that bookings at Walt Disney World are significantly lower next year was a promotion launched by Walt Disney World for American travellers a couple of weeks ago. The offer was 50% off the Dining Plan for Children on a four-night, four-day package on selected dates next year, including the Easter Holiday and Spring Break. This promotion might have been expected for 'Out of Season' dates, but it's not the case.

Disney seems to be exploring a variety of options to boost their bookings, except for reintroducing the popular 'Free Disney Dining' plan. However, the current trend of decreasing bookings persists, and with the expected launch of 'Epic Universe' in 2025. In that case, it is possible that the company may reconsider and bring back the 'Free Disney Dining Plan.'

If you are planning to book a holiday in 2025, it would be wise to wait until the spring offers appear in March or April of next year. However, based on this year's trends, even if you are planning a trip to Disney in 2024, it is recommended that you keep an eye out for new offers on your preferred travel groups. You never know, there may be a better deal just around the corner.