Universal has announced its military annual pass offer for 2026 – priced less than half of Disney’s, with fewer blockout dates, and encompassing a longer usage period.
With America’s 250th Birthday on the way in 2026, both Universal Orlando Resort as well as Walt Disney World are offering active duty and retired military personnel deep discounts and specially priced annual passes as a “thank you” for their service. Disney announced these offers on Veterans Day via the Disney Parks Blog.
Universal then announced their military annual pass on November 13.
Universal Orlando Resort 2026 Military Freedom Pass
Universal’s “2026 Military Freedom Pass” is now available for purchase to all active duty and retired military personnel and their families.
Universal Studios fans in front of the iconic globe – Photo Credit: Universal Orlando Resort
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This includes reservist and national guard. Once purchased and activated, this pass allows entry to both Universal Studios and Universal Islands of Adventure parks in Orlando, Florida now through December 18, 2026, with the exception of a few blockout dates.
The Freedom Pass is blocked out December 25, 2025 – January 4, 2026, as well as from March 30 – April 6, 2026.
The price of this pass for both parks is just $220 plus tax.
That’s less than half the price of Universal’s lower tier “2 Park Power Annual Pass” priced at $474.99 plus tax. If Military members want to add Volcano Bay to their Freedom Pass it’s only $35 more.
The entrance to Universal Studios in Orlando Florida – Photo Credit: Marvin Montanaro
In addition to the aforementioned blockout dates, Volcano Bay is blocked from October 26, 2026 – December 18, 2026 as it will be closed for an extended refurbishment.
Disney Celebrates America Military Salute Ticket By Comparison
On Veterans Day Disney released its 2026 pass offer for Military. This pass is good for use at all four Walt Disney World theme parks.
The Walt Disney World daily flag retreat – Photo Credit: That Park Place
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While the Universal pass starts at only $220, the Disney pass is $499 plus tax — more than double the price of the Universal military annual pass.
Disney’s pass also doesn’t start until January 1, 2026, while the Universal pass is available for entry to the parks now. The blockout dates for the Disney Pass are March 29, 2026 – April 11, 2026 as well as November 22-28, 2026. Disney’s pass also ends on December 18, 2026.
Universal Offers More for Veterans
Universal’s 2026 military offerings extend beyond the “Freedom Pass.” They’re also offering veterans and their families discounts for Epic Universe, as well as entire vacation packages that include stays at one of the 11 Universal Orlando Resort Hotels.
The Entrance to Epic Universe at Universal Orlando – Photo Credit: NBC Universal
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Military veterans may create their own package or even select a special Wizarding World of Harry Potter vacation. It appears Universal is going above and beyond to salute the defenders of our freedoms during America’s Semiquincentennial year.
Thanking Our Veterans
While it is notable that both Universal Orlando Resort abd Walt Disney World Resort are reaching out with gratitude to salute those who protect our liberties, the price point of Universal’s offer will put it in reach of more families.
Night Time Fireworks in Celestial Park and the Helios Grand Hotel at Epic Universe in Universal Orlando – Photo Credit: NBC Universal
These offers are not available at the park gates, but must be purchased through an Authorized Military Ticket and Travel office. While historically Disney has honored the military members and veterans, when it comes the 2026 Military Vacation offerings, Universal is certainly raising the bar.
What do you think about the Universal military annual pass? Sound off in the comments and let us know!
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