Disney Pin Trading is one of the most interactive and personalized experiences at Walt Disney World Resort. It’s a great way to share magic moments with Disney cast members and bring home a souvenir you can’t find in any gift shop!
With thousands of unique designs featuring beloved characters, attractions, and events, pin trading offers endless opportunities for fun and connection. Whether you’re a first-time guest or a seasoned collector, trading Disney pins adds an extra layer of magic to your visit.
What is Disney Pin Trading?
Disney Pin Trading began in 1999 as part of the Millennium Celebration and has since become a beloved tradition across Disney Parks worldwide.
The concept is simple: guests can purchase, collect, and trade Disney pins with Disney cast members and other guests. Pins come in a variety of designs, including limited editions, special releases, and event-exclusive designs.
Many pins are only available at specific locations, making them highly sought after by collectors. In 2024, Disney celebrated 25 years of pin trading with exclusive anniversary pins, further fueling the excitement and nostalgia around this beloved pastime.
How to Start Disney Pin Trading
Getting started with Disney Pin Trading is easy! Here’s what you need to do:
- Purchase authentic Disney Pins – Official Disney trading pins can be bought at Walt Disney World merchandise locations, Disney Resort hotels, and Disney Springs. Mystery packs or lanyard sets are great ways to find “traders.”
- Find cast members wearing lanyards or pin boards – Disney cast members throughout the parks and resorts display pins for trading. Approach them politely and ask to see their collection. Disney cast members won’t deny a pin trade unless you offer something they already have or a non-Disney pin. Each guest can trade up to two pins with each cast member at a time.
- Trade with other guests – Guests can also trade with each other. Always ask permission before initiating a trade, and remember to follow pin trading etiquette. While Disney cast members will always trade with guests, other Disney Park visitors aren’t obligated to accept an offer.
Disney Pin Trading Etiquette and Rules
Disney Pin Trading is meant to be a fun and positive experience for everyone. Follow these guidelines to ensure fair and enjoyable trades:
- Authenticity matters – Only official Disney trading pins are allowed. Look for the official Disney Pin Trading logo, solid colors, and sturdy pin posts. Some Disney Pins have gems embedded in the back.
- Trade up to two pins per Disney cast member per day – To give all guests a chance to trade, each guest is limited to two trades per cast member per day.
- Pins must be in good condition – Pins should be undamaged with the pin backing attached. Cast Members will not trade for broken or altered pins.
- Respect personal space – Never touch another person’s pins or lanyard without permission. If you see a pin you like, ask to take a closer look before trading. If someone else is looking at a Disney cast member’s pins, wait patiently for your turn.
- No buying or selling in the parks – Pin trading is a fun, cash-free exchange. Buying or selling pins within the parks is not allowed.
Tips for an Amazing Pin Trading Experience
To get the most out of your pin trading adventure, consider these expert tips:
- Stay updated on Limited Editions – Disney regularly releases new and exclusive pins, including event-exclusive and seasonal designs.
In 2024, Disney released a special 25th Anniversary pin collection, which became an instant hit among traders.
- Use locking pin-backs – Standard rubber pin-backs can sometimes fall off. Consider using locking pin-backs to secure your collection, especially if you wear pins on a lanyard. Locking pin-backs are available at stores throughout the parks or through third-party online retailers.
- Organize your collection – While lanyards are popular, many traders use display boards or pin trading books to keep their collection safe and organized.
- Trade smartly – Some pins are rarer than others. If you’re looking to complete a set or find exclusive designs, research online Disney pin trading communities to connect with fellow traders.
- Money-saving tip – Check out the Disney Character Warehouse stores in the Orlando International Premium Outlets and Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets for discounted, authentic Disney pins. We’ve purchased single pins for as low as 99 cents and traded them at Walt Disney World Resort!
Best Places to Trade Disney Pins at Walt Disney World
There are plenty of opportunities to trade pins at Walt Disney World. Here are some of the best places:
- Resort Gift Shops – Many resort gift shops feature pin trading boards where guests can trade throughout the day.
- Park Merchandise Locations – Some stores, such as Creations Shop at EPCOT and Emporium on Main Street, U.S.A., in Magic Kingdom Park, offer dedicated pin trading boards.
- Pin Trading Events – Disney occasionally hosts special pin trading events, such as the annual Pin Celebration. Check Disney’s official website for upcoming event dates, as new exclusive trading events may be scheduled for 2025.
- Disney Springs Pin Traders – One of the most popular locations for trading, this dedicated pin shop at Disney Springs is a must-visit for serious pin collectors.
Avoiding Counterfeit Pins
While Disney Pin Trading is an exciting and fun hobby, counterfeit pins (often called “scrappers”) can sometimes appear in the parks. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Buy pins from official Disney retailers – Always purchase pins from official Disney stores, theme park gift shops, or authorized online retailers.
- Be wary of bulk pin lots online – Many counterfeit pins are sold in bulk on third-party websites. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Check for quality – Authentic Disney pins have clear detailing, vibrant colors, and sturdy metal backs. Counterfeits may have rough edges, blurry designs, or incorrect logos.
Why You Should Try Disney Pin Trading
Disney Pin Trading isn’t just about collecting—it’s about the experience. It’s a great way to interact with cast members, meet fellow Disney Parks fans, and bring home a unique souvenir from your trip. Whether you’re looking for a rare pin, trading just for fun, or building a collection to display, pin trading adds an extra layer of magic to your Disney vacation.
With a little preparation and a keen eye, you can turn Disney Pin Trading into an unforgettable part of your Walt Disney World Resort adventure. So grab your lanyard, find some great pins, and start trading!
What was your most exciting pin trade at Walt Disney World? Share your best finds and stories in the comments!
