I'm on hold with Tables in Wonderland (haven't received my new card yet... 
) and the "hold message" reminds me that the card won't offer discounts during "the holidays." Although I think revoking the benefits at ALL is pretty silly, I'm hoping they mean to do so only ON major holidays (like Christmas Day). I can't imagine that you wouldn't be able to use the card during the whole season...
I'm pretty sure the blackout is on the actual day and not the whole season.
Our TIW card (which is good for 13 months from when you purchase it) has paid for itself a few times over this past year. Though it can be frustrating a bit, what with certain places that don't take it, and the blackouts you describe, I'd highly recommend it to anyone who'll be dining more than a few times at WDW restaurants, specifically the table service ones.
And if you're the type to have a glass of wine (or two) with dinner, it makes it an even better value, since the discount is on alchohol as well as food.
Upcoming Trips
Agreed that it's a great deal. Then again, I'm not one to go to the parks or try to dine on holidays 
I'm pretty sure the blackout is on the actual day and not the whole season.
Our TIW card (which is good for 13 months from when you purchase it) has paid for itself a few times over this past year. Though it can be frustrating a bit, what with certain places that don't take it, and the blackouts you describe, I'd highly recommend it to anyone who'll be dining more than a few times at WDW restaurants, specifically the table service ones.
And if you're the type to have a glass of wine (or two) with dinner, it makes it an even better value, since the discount is on alchohol as well as food.
Yep -- I'm pretty sure this is correct, too. The blackout dates are for the actual days (Christmas, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, New Year's Eve, etc.).
May 2008 CSR