D23: What Can Disney Fans Expect from the Ultimate Fan Event?

Prepare for three days filled with Disney magic at the upcoming D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa for 2024! We are just under a month away from the event, and to ramp up excitement, D23 has unveiled the schedule of all the panels, presentations, and experiences that guests can enjoy at the Anaheim Convention Center. Stay up-to-date with all things D23.

Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase will be held on Saturday, August 10 at the Honda Center. Josh D’Amaro will greet fans as he joins surprise stars and special guests on stage for a live celebration of the music and creativity that drive our stories, along with exciting news and updates on projects in development worldwide. The future looks promising for Disney Experiences, and this must-see showcase will give fans a glimpse of what's to come.

They are just beginning to scratch the surface of what fans can witness, participate in, and enjoy from August 9-11. Here is a glimpse of what to expect:

PANELS, PAVILIONS, & MORE

Imagineering: Behind the Dreams

Imagineering: Behind the Dreams offers a unique pavilion where our most dedicated fans can experience unparalleled access to Imagineering's enthusiastic and skilled team of artists, engineers, and craftsmen. By showcasing design models, interactive demonstrations, live prototypes, and exclusive talks, visitors will witness firsthand the creative and immersive storytelling that will shape the future development of Disney's parks, resorts, cruise ships, and other entertainment experiences for years to come.

Bringing the Worlds of Disney Animation to Life in Disney Parks

Members of the teams at Walt Disney Imagineering and Walt Disney Animation Studios collaborate on transforming the realms of Disney Animation into vibrant realities at Disney parks globally. They delve into various projects such as World of Frozen at Hong Kong Disneyland, Zootopia at Shanghai Disneyland, Fantasy Springs at Tokyo DisneySea, and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom and Disneyland.

Dream Chasing: Four Decades with Walt Disney Imagineering

Attendees have the opportunity to participate in a personal discussion with Leslie Iwerks, Bob Weis, and Wendy Lefkon, reflecting on four decades of collaborative Imagineering projects across various locations such as Anaheim, Paris, Tokyo, and Shanghai. This engaging conversation aims to motivate individuals to pursue any dream that holds value and significance.

The Costuming Artistry Behind Disney Experiences

Join the costume designers from Disney Live Entertainment as they reveal the inspiration, creative process, and intricate details of the costumes worn at Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, and beyond.

Magic After Dark—The Story of Disney’s Nighttime Spectaculars

Fireworks above the castle have become a beloved tradition known as the "kiss goodnight" at Disneyland, while every Disney park illuminates the night with a magical combination of light, music, water, and fire. Visitors have the opportunity to accompany Disney's nighttime enchanters and learn about the narratives that inspire their favorite evening performances.

60 Years of Disney Ambassadors – The Stories You’ve Never Heard

Guests embark on a nostalgic journey with Disney Ambassadors who have been integral to the 60-year legacy initiated by Walt Disney. They recount cherished moments that span from unforgettable to unexpected!

Disneyland Foods – Yesterday, Today & Tomorrow

Due to Walt Disney's influence, dining has consistently played a crucial role in the Disneyland experience. Visitors have the opportunity to participate in sessions with Disneyland Resort chefs and Pam Brandon, who coauthored the Official Disney Parks Cookbook series. These sessions delve into the history of Disneyland's food scene, the current strategies for creating concepts and developing menus for popular dishes, and a glimpse into the resort's culinary direction for the future.

Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed – The Return of a Beloved Classic 

Get ready to use the paintbrush again in Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed coming this autumn! Join Disney Games, Epic Mickey Creative Director Warren Spector, and other special guests for a discussion on the creation of this cherished classic adventure.

Disney Legends Awards Ceremony

Since 1987, the Disney Legends Awards program has recognized talented individuals for their remarkable contributions to the Disney legacy. The 2024 class of Disney Legends, which includes Martha Blanding from Disneyland Resort and veteran Imagineer Joe Rohde, will be celebrated on Sunday, August 11, at 5 p.m. at the Honda Center in Anaheim, CA.

World of Disney: The Product Experience

An essential D23 shopping and immersive destination presents new and limited-edition products and experiences from popular Disney brands and franchises, such as DisneyStore.com, Mickey & Friends, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and Disney Princess, making it a must-visit for fans.

Disney Publishing 

Disney releases narratives that encourage a passion for reading, spark an inherent inquisitiveness, and thrill families and enthusiasts. Visitors have the opportunity to browse through exclusive Disney books, cherished fan-favorite tales, and limited edition titles at this top-tier bookstore spot situated in World of Disney: The Product Experience.

And that's just the tip of the iceberg for D23 2024! Visitors can explore the complete lineup of events and plan their weekend for D23: The Ultimate Fan Experience today.

Don’t Miss Limited-Time D23 and Disney Jr. Offerings at Disneyland Resort

Prior to the start of D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, attendees are welcome to join the inaugural D23 Day at Disneyland Resort on August 8, 2024!* This special one-day occasion will showcase festive experiences inspired by Disney's rich history, beloved tales, and recent hits.

As part of the festivities, the Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party at Disney California Adventure park on August 8 will offer entertaining activities and fun for preschoolers and their families.

All guests with a valid theme park admission and reservation – which includes D23: The Official Disney Fan Club Members and D23 Event participants – are encouraged to partake in this celebration. Those planning to spend multiple days at Disneyland Resort during the sold-out D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim can take advantage of exclusive ticket and hotel deals for themselves and their families.

D23 Day at Disneyland Resort – Aug. 8, 2024

From the moment the park opens and while stocks last, a limited number of complimentary Mickey Mouse ear hats showcasing the D23 Day at Disneyland Resort logo will be given to guests as they enter Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park on August 8th. This will be a fashionable way to commemorate this special occasion!

The main event will commence with a themed cavalcade at 12:15 p.m. in Disneyland Park, featuring the renowned Disneyland Band and some beloved characters. Guests will have the chance to see 23 characters and select Disney Legends, who are honored for their significant impact and contributions to the Disney heritage.

During your visit to both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, you might come across characters who are making special, temporary appearances. Whether you're enjoying a light-hearted moment with Goofy and Max from the animated series "Goof Troop" in Mickey’s Toontown or striking a pose with Lots-o’-Huggin’ Bear from Pixar Animation Studios’ “Toy Story 3” in Pixar Pier, the surprises are endless on this memorable day!

At Tomorrowland Terrace in Disneyland Park, the excitement doesn't stop when the sun goes down. Join Stitch and various Disney character pals for a lively dance party from 1-6 p.m. Later in the evening, between 7-11 p.m., the talented musical group Suburban Legends will keep the energy high with live performances.

An exclusive line of merchandise celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Walt Disney Animation Studios' movie "Tarzan" will launch at Disneyland Resort on August 8th! During a limited period, you can find the "Tarzan" collection at Disneyana in Disneyland Park, Off the Page in Disney California Adventure Park, and WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District.

Additionally, keep an eye out for exclusive clothing and merchandise celebrating the inaugural D23 Day at Disneyland Resort!

Between Aug. 8-11, collectors will have the opportunity to acquire four new medallions showcasing the D23 Day at Disneyland Resort logo on one side and Disneyland Resort artwork on the reverse. These medallions will be for sale at Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen in Disneyland Park, Kingswell Shop at Disney California Adventure Park, and close to the Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage and lawn at the Downtown Disney District.

Visitors will have the opportunity to remember their attendance at the inaugural D23 Day at Disneyland Resort through special photo keepsakes. As part of the celebration, all visitors holding valid park admission and theme park reservations on August 8, 2024, will be granted complimentary unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass pictures taken on that day. Additionally, Disney PhotoPass service will present a unique Magic Shot for visitors to uncover!

Further festive features include distinct photo spots, optical art displays at Disney California Adventure park and Downtown Disney District, along with a special keepsake guide containing 23 recommended activities and details to explore.

Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party at Disney California Adventure Park – Aug. 8, 2024

Guests of all ages, from preschoolers to their families, are invited to join in the fun at the Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party in Disney California Adventure park. This event will feature beloved Disney Jr. characters and stories from popular series such as “Disney Jr.’s Ariel,” “Mickey Mouse Funhouse,” “SuperKitties,” and others, where everyone can explore, laugh, sing, dance, and create together.

The parade route of Disney California Adventure park will come alive with music and excitement at 10:30 a.m. when beloved Disney Jr. characters take to the streets in a festive parade featuring lively drummers and elaborately decorated vehicles. Making her first-ever appearance at Disney Parks, Ariel from Disney Jr. will join this enchanting procession for a special one-day event at Disney California Adventure park on Aug. 8.

Experience interactive fun at Hollywood Land, featuring a dedicated arts and crafts area themed after "Disney Jr.'s Ariel." Families can join in live performances with Disney Jr. characters at the Hollywood Backlot Stage, and children can get creative by decorating cupcakes at "Confection Purrfection with the SuperKitties."

Additionally, families will have the opportunity to meet and engage with characters from popular Disney Jr. series, including Winnie the Pooh, Doc McStuffins, Sofia the First, and others.

Extended Fun at the Downtown Disney District

The excitement doesn't stop with discounts, special deals, and one-of-a-kind entertainment available at the Downtown Disney District throughout the entire week!

From August 4 to August 11, certain venues within the Downtown Disney District will provide exclusive deals to visitors who show their D23 Event badge or D23 Membership card. Even if you are not able to attend the fully booked D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, you can still enjoy these benefits and various discounts by joining D23: The Official Disney Fan Club. Find out more at D23.com.