Everyone who visits a Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort theme park on their birthday in 2009 can get in free, as Disney Parks embraces a newly identified family travel trend called "celebration vacations."

In this new national trend, American families are hitting the road to mark life's special occasions - birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, reunions and more - with a "celebration vacation." In 2009, Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts will lead this growing trend with new entertainment and services that allow guests to turn their personal milestones into magical Disney experiences.

And to kick it all off - a first-ever opportunity for guests to receive a free ticket to one of the Walt Disney World or Disneyland theme parks on their birthday in 2009.

"Birthdays are the one occasion that we all share every year," said Jay Rasulo, chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. "We thought a free birthday ticket would be the icing on the cake as we extend this new 'celebration vacation' trend to Disney Parks."

Disney parks provide the perfect setting for this new style of vacation that celebrates the special occasions in life, Rasulo added.

Whether a guest is celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, Quinceañera or any special occasion, Disney parks already are filled with favorite characters, world-class attractions and entertainment, and legendary guest service - exactly the "something for everyone" that trend-watchers say families look for in a "celebration vacation."

"The special moments in your life become truly magical when you celebrate at a Disney park," Rasulo said. "Sharing a milestone at Disney connects families, friends and generations."

» Sign Up For FREE ADMISSION ON YOUR BIRTHDAY at Walt Disney World Resort.