The D23 Expo, known as the ultimate Disney fan event, is a biennial celebration that brings together Disney enthusiasts from around the globe. Since its inception in 2009, D23 has become a hallmark event for Disney fans, offering exclusive insights into upcoming projects, special guest appearances, and a chance to experience the magic of Disney like never before. In 2024, D23 returned to Anaheim, California, from August 9 to 11, marking another chapter in Disney’s storied history of innovation and imagination. We’re going to go over all the exciting announcements, reveals, celebrity appearances, and panels that happened during the event!
A Brief History of D23
D23, named after the year 1923 when Walt Disney founded the company, is the official fan club for The Walt Disney Company. Established in 2009, D23 has become a central hub for Disney enthusiasts, offering a unique connection to the magic of Disney through special events, exclusive merchandise, and insider access to new projects. The D23 Expo, held biennially, serves as a grand stage for Disney to unveil its latest ventures across its vast entertainment empire, including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and more!
The inaugural D23 Expo took place in September 2009 at the Anaheim Convention Center, marking the beginning of a tradition that brings fans closer to the heart of Disney. The expo is renowned for its exciting announcements, celebrity appearances, and unique experiences that celebrate Disney’s legacy and future. Over the years, D23 has expanded its offerings to include a variety of events, such as the Disney Legends award ceremony, exclusive first looks at upcoming attractions, and the Mousequerade fan costume contest!
D23’s mission is to bring Disney fans closer to the magic through one-of-a-kind experiences and opportunities to connect with others who share a passion for Disney. Membership in D23 includes access to a quarterly publication, Disney twenty-three, special event opportunities, and a chance to attend the D23 Expo. The club offers different membership levels, including Gold and General memberships, each providing unique benefits and access to exclusive content.
As D23 continues to grow, it remains a beloved tradition that unites Disney fans worldwide, celebrating the stories and characters that have captured our hearts for generations. Whether through the D23 Expo or other special events, D23 offers fans an insider look at every corner of Disney, from the parks and animation to the treasures of the Walt Disney Archives!
Panels and Presentations at D23 2024
The D23 2024 Expo was a spectacular showcase of Disney’s latest and greatest offerings, featuring a wide array of panels and presentations that thrilled audiences with exclusive content and sneak peeks. Held at the Anaheim Convention Center and the Honda Center, the event spanned three days from August 9 to 11, drawing Disney fans from all over the world.
Disney Entertainment Showcase
The event kicked off with the Disney Entertainment Showcase at the Honda Center, a massive preview of upcoming movies, television shows, and stage productions. Hosted by Yvette Nicole Brown, the showcase featured a sizzle reel of past Disney properties and new footage from highly anticipated projects such as Captain America: Brave New World, Thunderbolts, and Snow White. Bob Iger, making his first appearance at D23 in five years, emphasized Disney’s commitment to entertaining and delighting audiences globally. He teased a weekend full of surprises, highlighting the synergy between Disney’s various brands.
One of the standout moments was the introduction of Moana 2. Auli’i Cravalho performed a new song from the film, while Dwayne Johnson joined her on stage to engage the audience with a Polynesian dance and chant. The new trailer revealed Moana’s journey as a leader and big sister, with Maui returning for another adventure. Johnson also announced a new project, a live-action Monster Jam movie, adding to the excitement.
James Cameron took the stage to discuss Avatar 3, sharing concept art and teasing the film’s high emotional stakes and new characters. Although footage was not yet available, the presentation left fans eager for more.
Pixar and Animation Highlights
The Pixar segment, introduced by Pete Docter, celebrated the success of Inside Out 2 and announced a new Disney+ series, Dream Productions, set to premiere in 2025. The series will explore the studio where Riley’s emotions work, bridging the gap between the two films.
Jennifer Lee, Walt Disney Animation’s chief creative officer, shared insights into Frozen III, showcasing concept art and hinting at the sisters’ next epic adventure. The film is slated for a 2027 release, and Lee teased an original project for 2026, keeping details under wraps.
Deadpool Crashes D23
In a surprise move that delighted fans, Deadpool, portrayed by Ryan Reynolds, made a memorable appearance during the Disney Entertainment Showcase. Known for his irreverent humor and breaking the fourth wall, Deadpool brought his signature style to the stage, playfully poking fun at the Marvel Cinematic Universe and sharing a special message with fans.
Reynolds expressed gratitude for the success of Deadpool & Wolverine, which recently surpassed $1 billion at the box office, making it one of Marvel’s most successful films to date.During his appearance, Deadpool humorously pitched several outlandish ideas for Disney Parks attractions, such as the “Chimichanga Chaser” and “Deadpool’s Heck House.”
While these ideas were not in development, they added a comedic touch to the event and showcased Deadpool’s unique charm. Reynolds’ presence underscored the film’s impact and set the stage for future Marvel projects, with fans eagerly anticipating what’s next for the Merc with a Mouth in the MCU.
Stage Musicals and Live Performances
Disney’s stage musicals also took center stage, with performances from Frozen, The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, and Hercules: The Heroic Musical. The segment concluded with a song from an upcoming stage adaptation of The Greatest Showman, leaving the audience in awe.
Marvel Studios Highlights
Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige took the stage to unveil a series of exciting announcements and exclusive footage from upcoming projects. Highlights included:
- Deadpool & Wolverine: Reynolds’ appearance was complemented by a video message celebrating the film’s box office success and teasing future adventures for the character.
- Captain America: Brave New World: Anthony Mackie joined Feige to share exclusive footage and insights into Sam Wilson’s next adventure as Captain America.
- The Fantastic Four: First Steps: The cast sent a special video message from the set, building anticipation for the film’s release.
- Ironheart: Ryan Coogler introduced the cast and shared exclusive footage from the upcoming Disney+ series.
- Daredevil: Born Again: The cast, including Charlie Cox and Vincent D’Onofrio, teased the series’ return, set to premiere on Disney+ in March 2025.
Additional Marvel Announcements
The panel also featured updates on several other Marvel projects, including:
- Agatha All Along: Kathryn Hahn and the cast shared sneak peeks of the upcoming Disney+ series.
- Marvel Animation Sneak Peek: New looks at What If…?, X-Men ’97, Eyes of Wakanda, Marvel Zombies, and Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man were unveiled, with voice actors and filmmakers joining the stage.
The Marvel presentations at D23 2024 highlighted the studio’s commitment to expanding its universe across both film and television, offering fans a diverse array of content to look forward to. With Deadpool’s unexpected appearance and the exciting lineup of projects, Marvel continues to captivate audiences and set the stage for its next phase of storytelling.
Disney Experiences Showcase
The Disney Experiences Showcase, hosted by Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Parks and Resorts, provided exciting updates on new projects and developments in Disney parks worldwide. Highlights included the announcement of new lands and attractions, such as Monsters, Inc. Land at Hollywood Studios, Cars at Magic Kingdom, and Villains Land at Magic Kingdom. The showcase also revealed plans for Tropical Americas at Animal Kingdom, promising lush landscapes and exotic wildlife.
Additional Panels and Presentations
The D23 Expo featured over 55 panels and presentations across multiple stages, offering fans a deep dive into Disney’s creative process and future projects. Some notable panels included:
- 30 Years of Toy Story: Filmmakers and Pixar Legends reflected on the making of the groundbreaking classic, sharing never-before-heard anecdotes.
- Exploring New Parts of the Mind: Behind the Design of Inside Out 2: Production designer Jason Deamer provided an in-depth look at designing new emotions for the sequel.
- Jolly Holiday: A D23 Musical Celebration of Richard M. Sherman: A heartwarming tribute to Disney songwriting legend Richard M. Sherman, featuring surprise performances and appearances.
- Marvel Animation Sneak Peek: First looks at upcoming Disney+ series, including Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man and X-Men ’97.
The panels and presentations at D23 2024 offered fans an unparalleled glimpse into Disney’s future, showcasing the creativity and innovation that continue to define the company. From film and television to theme parks and stage productions, the event celebrated the magic of Disney and left audiences eagerly anticipating what’s next.
Theme Park Announcements at D23 2024
One of the most eagerly anticipated segments of the D23 Expo is the Disney Parks Panel, where exciting new developments and attractions for Disney’s theme parks are unveiled. At D23 2024, fans were treated to a host of thrilling announcements that promise to bring even more magic and adventure to Disney parks around the world!
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Opens This Holiday Season at Disneyland
Disneyland is set to debut Tiana’s Bayou Adventure this holiday season, November 15th, 2024, transforming the classic Splash Mountain ride into a new experience inspired by Disney’s The Princess and the Frog. This reimagined attraction will invite guests to join Princess Tiana and her friends on a musical journey through the bayou, celebrating the rich culture and vibrant music of New Orleans. The ride will feature new scenes, characters, and music, offering a fresh take on a beloved classic while honoring the spirit of the original film. Critter Country will also be re-named Bayou Country at the start of the holiday season!
Monsters, Inc. Land at Hollywood Studios
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is set to welcome the world’s first-ever Monsters, Inc. Land. This new area will invite guests into the vibrant world of Monstropolis, where laughter is the key to keeping the city running. The land will feature Disney’s first suspended roller coaster, inspired by the iconic door sequence from the film. Guests will have the opportunity to zoom through the Laugh Factory alongside beloved characters like Sulley and Mike Wazowski. The land will also include interactive experiences and themed environments that bring the beloved Pixar film to life. Construction is slated to begin in 2025, with the land picking up the story after the events of the original movie.
Pandora at Disney’s California Adventure
Disney California Adventure Park is set to welcome a new Pandora-themed land, inspired by James Cameron’s Avatar: The Way of Water and future films in the Avatar series. This new destination will bring the awe-inspiring world of Pandora to life in a fresh and exciting way. The land will feature an innovative new boat ride, taking guests on a thrilling journey through the wide-open seas of Pandora.
This attraction promises to deliver a dynamic, intense, and emotional experience, showcasing the majestic natural wonders and the beauty—and danger—of Pandora. The new Pandora land will include settings and characters from the Avatar films, offering guests a chance to explore the oceanic sights and sounds of this fantastical world. The addition of Pandora to Disney California Adventure is part of Disney’s broader strategy to bring popular film franchises to life in its theme parks, providing guests with immersive storytelling experiences.
First-Ever Coco Ride at Disney California Adventure
In a landmark announcement, Disney revealed that the first-ever attraction themed to Pixar’s Coco is set to debut at Disney California Adventure. This new ride will immerse guests in the vibrant world of Coco, taking them on a journey with Miguel to the Land of the Dead. The attraction will be filled with beloved characters and music from the film, brought to life through cutting-edge Audio-Animatronics technology. Inspired by Disney classics like Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean, the Coco ride will offer an enchanting experience that celebrates the film’s rich cultural themes and musical heritage. Construction for this attraction is slated to begin in 2026.
Cars at Magic Kingdom
The Magic Kingdom will soon be home to a new Cars-themed area, bringing the world of Radiator Springs to life in a reimagined section of Frontierland. This new land will feature two attractions: a thrilling rally race through mountainous terrain and a family-friendly attraction suitable for all ages. Guests will embark on an off-road adventure, navigating wild landscapes and experiencing the excitement of the Cars universe. Construction for this new area is expected to begin in early 2025.
Indiana Jones and Encanto Confirmed for Animal Kingdom at Disney World
Animal Kingdom is set to expand with the addition of new attractions inspired by Indiana Jones and Encanto. These exciting developments will be part of the new Tropical Americas area, which will feature lush landscapes and immersive experiences:
- Indiana Jones: A new attraction will invite guests to embark on an adventurous journey with the iconic archaeologist, exploring ancient ruins and uncovering hidden treasures. This addition promises to bring the thrilling spirit of the Indiana Jones films to life in a way that complements the park’s focus on exploration and discovery. It will replace the Dinosaur ride currently at Animal Kingdom. The two rides are almost identical so we hope it won’t take too long to get this attraction up and running!
- Encanto: Guests will be able to step into the magical world of the Madrigal family, experiencing the vibrant culture and enchanting music of Encanto. This attraction will celebrate the film’s themes of family and magic, offering an immersive experience that captures the heart and soul of the story.
Villains Land at Magic Kingdom
Disney fans have long dreamed of a land dedicated to the iconic Disney Villains, and that dream is finally becoming a reality. Villains Land will offer a darker, more thrilling experience at Magic Kingdom, complete with two major attractions, dining, and shopping. This new area will immerse guests in the world of Disney’s most infamous villains, promising a unique and spellbinding adventure. Construction is set to begin soon, and Disney has teased that this land will feature storytelling on a grand scale.
Tropical Americas at Animal Kingdom
Animal Kingdom is set to expand with the addition of Tropical Americas, a vibrant new land inspired by the diverse ecosystems and cultures of Central and South America. This new area will feature lush landscapes, exotic wildlife, and attractions inspired by beloved Disney films like Encanto and Indiana Jones. Guests will be able to explore a fictional village in the heart of the rainforest, complete with two signature attractions. Construction for Tropical Americas is expected to begin in 2027.
These exciting announcements from D23 2024 promise to bring new stories and experiences to Disney parks, enhancing the magic and wonder that guests have come to love. From the laughter-filled world of Monsters, Inc. to the thrilling adventures of Cars and the enchanting landscapes of Tropical Americas, Disney continues to push the boundaries of imagination and creativity in its theme parks.
Disney Cruise Line Expansions Announced at D23 2024
During the D23 Expo 2024, Disney Cruise Line unveiled ambitious plans to expand its fleet with four new ships, set to launch between 2027 and 2031. This expansion will bring the total number of ships in the Disney Cruise Line fleet to 13, offering even more opportunities for guests to experience Disney’s unique brand of magic at sea.
New Ships and Itineraries
The announcement was made by Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, who emphasized Disney Cruise Line’s commitment to providing unparalleled vacation experiences. The new ships will be developed alongside the four currently under construction, further solidifying Disney Cruise Line’s reputation as a leader in family cruising.
While specific design details and itineraries for the new ships are still in development, Disney has a history of crafting innovative and immersive experiences on its vessels. The expansion is part of a broader strategy to introduce Disney Cruise Line to new markets and destinations worldwide.
Exciting Onboard Experiences
Among the highlights announced at D23 was the debut of new Broadway-style stage shows on the upcoming ships. The Disney Destiny, set to launch in 2025, will feature “Disney Hercules,” a production that brings the beloved characters and music from the classic animated film to life on stage.
Additionally, the Disney Treasure, launching in December 2024, will host “Disney The Tale of Moana,” a spectacular show that includes a 15-foot puppet of Te Kā, the fiery antagonist from the film. These productions are part of Disney Cruise Line’s commitment to delivering high-quality entertainment that appeals to guests of all ages.
International Expansion
Disney Cruise Line is also expanding its global presence, with plans to operate its first services in Asia. The Disney Adventure will set sail from Singapore in 2025, and year-round cruises in Japan are expected to begin by 2029. This international expansion aims to introduce Disney’s signature storytelling and service to new audiences across the globe.
Future Prospects
As Disney Cruise Line continues to grow, the addition of these new ships will enhance its ability to offer diverse itineraries and experiences. The expansion reflects Disney’s dedication to innovation and excellence, ensuring that every voyage is a magical journey for guests. The fleet expansion is a testament to Disney Cruise Line’s success and its commitment to creating memorable vacations that families cherish. With new ships on the horizon and exciting developments underway, Disney Cruise Line is poised to continue setting the standard for family cruising in the years to come.
Global Disney Parks Updates Announced at D23 2024
At the D23 Expo 2024, Disney unveiled exciting updates for its international theme parks, promising new attractions and experiences that will delight guests worldwide. These announcements highlight Disney’s ongoing commitment to expanding its global presence and enhancing the magic at its parks.
The Lion King Attraction at Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris is set to welcome a new attraction themed around The Lion King, as part of the reimagined Disney Adventure World (formerly Walt Disney Studios Park). This new area, called Pride Lands, will immerse guests in the African savanna, allowing them to join Simba, Timon, and Pumbaa on a journey from cub to king. The attraction will feature a log flume ride that takes guests beneath Pride Rock, offering a thrilling adventure that feels like stepping right into the movie. The addition of this attraction continues Disney’s investment in Disneyland Paris, following the opening of Avengers Campus and Worlds of Pixar.
World of Frozen at Disney Adventure World
Disney Adventure World at Disneyland Paris will also see the introduction of World of Frozen, set to open in 2026. This new land will transport guests to the magical realm of Arendelle, featuring attractions and experiences inspired by the beloved Frozen films. Guests will have the opportunity to meet Anna and Elsa and enjoy themed dining and shopping experiences. The opening of World of Frozen will coincide with the park’s name change, further enhancing its offerings and appeal.
Reach for the Stars Nighttime Spectacular at Tokyo Disneyland
Tokyo Disneyland will debut a new nighttime spectacular titled “Reach for the Stars” on September 20, 2024. Set against the iconic backdrop of Cinderella Castle, this 20-minute show will feature dazzling projections, pyrotechnics, and beloved Disney characters from films such as Toy Story, Big Hero 6, and Hercules. For the first time, Marvel superheroes like Iron Man and Captain Marvel will also make appearances in a Tokyo Disney Resort entertainment program. The show will take guests on a journey through the sky, celebrating the pursuit of dreams and the limitless possibilities that await.
These global updates reflect Disney’s dedication to creating immersive and innovative experiences that resonate with audiences worldwide. From the enchanting landscapes of Arendelle to the adventurous savannas of Pride Lands, Disney continues to push the boundaries of imagination, ensuring that each visit to a Disney park is filled with wonder and excitement.
Surprise Guest Appearances and Meet & Greets at D23 2024
D23 2024 was a star-studded event, featuring an impressive lineup of surprise guest appearances that delighted Disney fans. This year’s expo provided attendees with the unique opportunity to meet and interact with some of the most iconic figures in the Disney universe, creating unforgettable memories for all who attended.
Disney Legends and Surprise Guests
The event was graced by several Disney Legends, including Angela Bassett, Harrison Ford, and John Williams, who were celebrated for their significant contributions to The Walt Disney Company. These legendary figures participated in special meet and greet sessions, allowing fans to connect with the stars who have brought so much magic to Disney’s storytelling.In addition to the Disney Legends, the D23 Expo featured a host of surprise guests from across Disney’s vast entertainment empire.
Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige took the stage to introduce several stars from upcoming Marvel projects. Notably, Ryan Reynolds and Anthony Mackie made appearances, with Reynolds sharing a video message for Deadpool & Wolverine fans and Mackie presenting footage from Captain America: Brave New World. The cast of Daredevil: Born Again, including Charlie Cox and Vincent D’Onofrio, also joined the stage to tease the series’ return.
The event also saw appearances from stars of upcoming Disney+ series such as Ironheart and Agatha All Along, with actors like Dominique Thorne and Kathryn Hahn engaging with fans and sharing exclusive sneak peeks.
Celebrity Meet & Greets
Throughout the weekend, fans had the chance to meet a variety of celebrities, including Dwayne Johnson, who was promoting Moana 2, and Auli’i Cravalho, who performed a new song from the film. Other notable appearances included Lindsay Lohan, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Gal Gadot, who were present to unveil new projects and interact with fans.
The meet and greet sessions provided a rare opportunity for fans to engage with their favorite stars, capturing photos and autographs that made for cherished keepsakes. These interactions highlighted the strong bond between Disney and its fans, celebrating the shared love for the stories and characters that have become cultural icons.
A Celebration of Disney’s Creative Talent
The surprise guest appearances and meet and greet sessions at D23 2024 underscored Disney’s commitment to celebrating the creative talent behind its beloved franchises. By bringing together legends, current stars, and emerging talent, the event offered fans an intimate glimpse into the world of Disney storytelling.
Overall, the surprise guest appearances and meet and greets at D23 2024 added an extra layer of excitement to the event, making it a truly magical experience for all attendees. Whether meeting a Disney Legend or a favorite Marvel superhero, fans left the expo with memories that will last a lifetime.
Upcoming Movies and TV Shows Announced at D23 2024
The D23 Expo 2024 was a treasure trove of exciting announcements for Disney fans, with a plethora of upcoming movies and TV shows revealed across Disney’s various studios, including Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, and Walt Disney Animation. Here’s a comprehensive look at the new projects that were unveiled during the event.
Upcoming Movies
- Toy Story 5
- The beloved franchise returns with a new adventure where toys face competition from digital devices. Directed by Andrew Stanton, the film is set to release in Summer 2026.
- Incredibles 3
- The Parr family is back for another action-packed installment. While details are scarce, the original cast is set to return. The film is currently in production.
- Avatar: Fire and Ash
- The third installment in the Avatar series, directed by James Cameron, will explore new challenges for the characters. It is scheduled for release on December 19, 2025.
- Frozen 3
- Continuing the adventures of Anna and Elsa, this highly anticipated sequel is set for release in 2027.
- Moana 2
- Set to release on November 27, 2024, the sequel will follow Moana’s journey as a leader and big sister, featuring new songs and adventures.
- Zootopia 2
- Scheduled for release on November 26, 2025, this sequel will bring back the beloved characters of Zootopia for another thrilling adventure.
- The Mandalorian and Grogu
- A theatrical release featuring the iconic duo, set to hit theaters on May 22, 2026.
- Freakier Friday
- Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis return for this sequel, set to premiere in 2025.
- TRON: Ares
- A new chapter in the TRON saga, expected to release in 2025.
- Mufasa: The Lion King
- A prequel exploring Mufasa’s origins, directed by Barry Jenkins, set for release on December 20, 2024.
- Lilo & Stitch
- A live-action adaptation of the beloved animated film, coming in 2025.
- Snow White
- A live-action retelling featuring Rachel Zegler and Gal Gadot, premiering on March 21, 2025.
Upcoming TV Shows
- Ironheart
- A Marvel series following Riri Williams, an inventor who creates a sophisticated suit of armor. The series will premiere on Disney+ on September 3, 2025.
- Daredevil: Born Again
- Season 1 of this Marvel series will arrive on Disney+ in March 2025, continuing the story of Matt Murdock.
- Agatha All Along
- A spin-off from WandaVision starring Kathryn Hahn, set to stream on Disney+ starting September 18, 2024.
- Win or Lose
- Pixar’s first original TV series, premiering on Disney+ on December 6, 2024.
- Percy Jackson and the Olympians
- The series continues with a dangerous new season, bringing Rick Riordan’s beloved books to life.
- Star Wars: Skeleton Crew
- A new Star Wars series that promises a cosmic journey, with its debut trailer unveiled at D23.
- Andor Season 2
- The return of a familiar face is teased in this continuation of the Star Wars series.
- Lego Star Wars Special
- Mark Hamill reprises his role as Luke Skywalker in this new special, adding a playful twist to the Star Wars universe.
These announcements highlight Disney’s commitment to expanding its storytelling across multiple platforms, offering fans a diverse range of content that continues to build on beloved franchises while introducing new stories and characters. With such an exciting lineup, Disney is set to captivate audiences worldwide in the coming years!
Cosplay Competitions and Photo Ops at D23 2024
D23 2024 was a vibrant celebration of creativity and fandom, with cosplay enthusiasts showcasing their incredible talents throughout the event. The cosplay competitions and photo ops provided fans with the perfect platform to display their passion for Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and more.
D23 Mousequerade: The Ultimate Disney Costume Contest
One of the most anticipated events at D23 was the Mousequerade, Disney’s ultimate costume contest. This year, cosplayers competed in three categories: “Fantastic Worlds,” “Epic Adventures,” and “Cast of Characters.” The contest was hosted by Nina West, with a panel of celebrity judges including Colleen Atwood, Yvette Nicole Brown, Ashley Eckstein, and Caitlin McHugh Stamos.
- Fantastic Worlds celebrated costumes inspired by Disney, Pixar, The Muppets, and Disney Parks. The winner, Lia Mchel, dazzled with her intricate design.
- Epic Adventures featured looks from Marvel, Lucasfilm, and other franchises. Maryna Matlock’s crystal-encrusted Anastasia costume, which took over a year to create, won this category.
- Cast of Characters focused on group or duo cosplays. Cassie Wanda and her friends won with their creative ensemble.
The Mousequerade also included an Audience Choice award, voted on by attendees via the Disney D23 app. Jessica Martin and her friend captured this honor with their enchanting Disney-inspired costumes.
Cosplay Meet-Ups and Photo Ops
The Grand Plaza Fountain served as the backdrop for themed cosplay meet-ups and photo ops, allowing fans to celebrate their favorite characters and universes. These sessions were organized throughout the event, providing opportunities for fans to connect and capture memories.
- Friday, August 9: Star Wars fans gathered from 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m., followed by Marvel and Pixar enthusiasts from 2:45 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.
- Saturday, August 10: Disney Princesses, Heroes, and Villains took center stage from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., with Disney Parks & Games fans meeting from 2:15 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.
- Sunday, August 11: All the Worlds of Disney meet-up sessions were held at 11:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
These meet-ups were open to all attendees, encouraging fans to dress up, participate, and share their love for Disney with fellow enthusiasts. The photo ops provided a unique chance to capture the magic of D23, with the Grand Plaza Fountain offering a picturesque setting for these memorable moments.
A Celebration of Fandom and Creativity
The cosplay competitions and photo ops at D23 2024 highlighted the creativity and dedication of Disney fans. From intricate costumes to themed meet-ups, these events celebrated the diverse and passionate community that makes D23 a truly special experience. Whether participating in the Mousequerade or joining a photo op, cosplayers brought their favorite characters to life, adding an extra layer of magic to the ultimate Disney fan event.
Exclusive Merchandise and Shopping at D23 2024
The D23 2024 Expo transformed the Anaheim Convention Center into a shopper’s paradise, offering an extensive array of exclusive merchandise and collectibles that delighted Disney fans and collectors. With a variety of shopping venues and unique items available, the shopping experience was a highlight for many attendees.
Official Disney Shopping Locations
The D23 Expo featured several official Disney shopping destinations, each offering a unique selection of merchandise:
- World of Disney: The Product Experience: This immersive shopping area provided fans with the opportunity to explore new and limited-edition merchandise from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars. Located on North Level 200 of the convention center, it was a must-visit destination for any Disney enthusiast.
- D23 Marketplace: Spanning 16,000 square feet, the D23 Marketplace showcased a wide range of products, including Disney Limited Edition Dolls, the new Disney Lacers vinyl series, and exclusive pin collections celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Disney Pin Trading.
- The Walt Disney Company Store and Pin Store: These stores offered fans access to employee-only buys and unique pin collections, making them popular stops for collectors.
- Mickey’s of Glendale: Known for its Imagineering exclusives, this shop provided fans with must-have items that are typically reserved for Disney employees.
Third-Party Partner Shopping
In addition to official Disney merchandise, the Expo featured a variety of third-party partners offering exclusive collections and deals:
- Loungefly: Known for its stylish mini backpacks and accessories, Loungefly offered event-exclusive designs that were highly sought after by fans.
- Swarovski: A standout item was a one-of-a-kind Black Panther crystal figure, priced at $250,000, showcasing the luxury and exclusivity of the offerings.
- Ravensburger: Fans of the Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game could purchase a limited-edition D23 Collection set, making it a hot item among collectors.
- Pandora Jewelry: Featured a lab-grown diamond Mickey Mouse pendant, adding a touch of elegance to the merchandise lineup.
Shopping Innovations
To enhance the shopping experience, Disney introduced mobile checkout and virtual queue systems at select locations. These services allowed fans to maximize their time at the Expo by signing up for a boarding group through the Disney D23 app, receiving notifications when it was their turn to shop. This innovative approach helped manage crowds and streamline the shopping process, ensuring a smoother experience for attendees.
Exclusive Merchandise for Ticket Holders
Fans who purchased tickets to the D23 Expo had the opportunity to pre-order exclusive merchandise, including:
- T-shirts ($23.99)
- Baseball Caps ($27.99)
- Aluminum Water Bottles ($19.99)
- Collector’s Pins ($19.99)
- Lanyards with Lapel Pins ($24.99)
- Ultimate Fan Bundles ($149.99), which included a backpack, water bottle, collector’s pin, lanyard with lapel pin, baseball cap, and t-shirt.
These items were limited to eight per individual item or bundle and were shipped approximately four to six weeks after ordering.
D23 A Shopper’s Dream
The D23 2024 Expo delivered an unparalleled shopping experience, offering fans access to exclusive merchandise that celebrated the magic of Disney. From limited-edition collectibles to innovative shopping solutions, the event catered to the diverse interests of Disney enthusiasts, making it a must-attend for collectors and fans alike. Whether searching for a nostalgic keepsake or the latest in Disney fashion, attendees found something to cherish, bringing a piece of Disney enchantment into their lives.
Looking Ahead: D23 2026
As the curtains closed on the D23 2024 Expo, the excitement and anticipation for the next D23 Expo in 2026 began to build among Disney fans worldwide. The 2024 event was a resounding success, filled with thrilling announcements and magical experiences that left attendees eager for more. Disney has promised that the 2026 Expo will continue this tradition, offering even more groundbreaking reveals and enchanting moments.
What to Expect in 2026
The D23 Expo has always been a platform for Disney to showcase its upcoming projects and innovations across its vast entertainment empire. Looking ahead to 2026, fans can expect a continuation of this tradition, with announcements likely to cover a wide range of Disney’s offerings, including films, television series, theme park expansions, and more.
Potential Highlights
- Film and Television Announcements: Disney is expected to unveil new projects from its major studios, including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm. With several sequels and new franchises already in the pipeline, the 2026 Expo will likely provide first looks, trailers, and exclusive footage that will captivate audiences.
- Theme Park Innovations: Following the exciting announcements from 2024, Disney may reveal further developments in its theme parks around the world. Fans can anticipate updates on ongoing projects and perhaps new attractions that will enhance the Disney park experience globally.
- Disney Cruise Line Expansions: With the expansion of the Disney Cruise Line fleet already underway, the 2026 Expo could offer more details about the new ships and their itineraries, as well as new onboard experiences that will set sail in the coming years.
- Interactive Experiences and Technology: Disney’s commitment to innovation may also be showcased through new interactive experiences and technological advancements that enhance storytelling and guest engagement.
Continuing the Legacy
The D23 Expo is not just about announcements; it’s a celebration of Disney’s legacy and its connection with fans. The 2026 Expo will likely continue to feature beloved traditions such as the Disney Legends ceremony, cosplay competitions, and exclusive merchandise offerings. These elements create a sense of community and shared passion among attendees, making D23 a truly unique event.
The Magic Continues D23 2026
As we look forward to D23 2026, the excitement and anticipation are palpable. Disney’s promise of more magical experiences and groundbreaking announcements ensures that the legacy of D23 will continue to inspire and delight fans worldwide. Whether you’re a lifelong Disney enthusiast or a newcomer to the magic, the next D23 Expo is poised to be an unforgettable celebration of creativity, innovation, and the stories that have captured our hearts for generations.
A Celebration of Disney Magic
D23 2024 was a testament to Disney’s enduring legacy of creativity and innovation. From thrilling theme park announcements to exclusive entertainment showcases, the event offered fans a glimpse into the future of Disney magic. As Disney continues to expand its universe, D23 remains a beloved tradition that brings fans together to celebrate the stories and characters that have captured our hearts for generations. Whether you’re a lifelong Disney enthusiast or a newcomer to the magic, D23 is an experience that promises to enchant and inspire all who attend.
