This is your comprehensive guide to the D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event , a Disney fan event filled with exciting panels, experiences, shopping, and more.

D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will return in 2026, and trust us: The hugely popular event will be bigger than ever! The 2026 event will take place in Anaheim, California, on August 14, 15, and 16, showcasing the storytelling and innovation of The Walt Disney Company.

Let’s dive into everything that you need to know, from tickets and dates to exhibits and announcements.

D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event Overview

D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event (formerly known as the D23 Expo) is a massive gathering of Disney fans, with exhibits, interactive experiences, panels, shopping, and more. Each year, the event has hosted some of the biggest announcements in the world of Disney movies and theme parks.

For example, at the 2022 D23 Expo, fans were given a preview of things to come, including TRON Lightcycle / Run, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, and Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana. In 2024, the D23 Expo revealed huge news about expansions of Disney Cruise Line’s fleet, the upcoming Tropical Americas land at Animal Kingdom, and the addition of Villains Land at Magic Kingdom.

In 2026, the event will once again take place in Anaheim, California, from August 14 to August 16, with events at the Anaheim Convention Center and Honda Center. D23 Day will also return in 2026, offering attendees a chance to spend the day at Disneyland Resort.

Photo Courtesy of Disney

For this year, Disney has promised a bigger and more immersive experience than ever, with three days of showcases and presentations, an expanded show floor, more exclusive shopping experiences, brand-new retail concepts, and a week-long celebration leading up to D23.

Dates and Location

The official D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will kick off in Anaheim, California, on August 14 and continue through August 16. D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa® will feature experiences at the Anaheim Convention Center and the Honda Center.

Guests will have the opportunity to select from a variety of tickets, including ones that provide access to both locations or that solely provide access to the Anaheim Convention Center events.

Ticket Information

D23 will be offering a variety of different ticketing options for the D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. D23 tickets went on sale beginning March 31, 2026 at 10 AM PST for D23 Gold Charter Members, on April 2 at 10 AM PST for D23 Gold Members on Essential, Choice, and Complete Plans, and April 2 at 12 PM PST for D23 Gold Members on a Complimentary Plan through Disney+ perks.

Photo Courtesy of Disney

There were a variety of different ticket options available, including a D23 1-Day Fan Pass, a 3-Day Fan Pass, or passes that will get you in for specific days of the event. Here’s a full look at your options and pricing:

D23 Event Programming

So, what can you expect throughout the weekend and before? Here’s a full look!

D23 Day at Disneyland Resort (August 13, 2026)

Kicking off the festivities on Thursday, August 13, D23 Day at Disneyland Resort transforms both theme parks into a celebration of Disney fandom before the main event officially begins. Open to all guests with valid park admission, the day features exclusive entertainment, limited-time merchandise, special character appearances, and fan experiences found only during D23 week.

The highlight is the Disney Legends Cavalcade, stepping down Main Street, U.S.A. at 1:30 PMalongside the Disneyland Band, Disney Legends, and 23 beloved Disney characters. Guests entering Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure that morning can also receive a complimentary D23-themed Mickey Mouse ear hat and commemorative guide while supplies last.

Throughout the day, Disneyland Resort will feature additional entertainment, including Stitch’s Interplanetary Beach Party Bash, the Disney+ Hulu Throwbacks Dance Party, rare appearances by Merlin and the Blue Fairy, D23-themed photo locations, Magic Shots, and complimentary unlimited Disney PhotoPass digital downloads for photos captured that day.

Photo Courtesy of Disney

Fans looking for exclusive souvenirs will find limited-edition D23 Day merchandise, anniversary collections celebrating Alice in Wonderland and The Hunchback of Notre Dame, commemorative medallions, the new Hatbox Ghost Popcorn Bucket, and specialty treats like the Sorcerer Apprentice Mickey Cake Pop.

The celebration extends beyond the parks as well. Disneyland Hotel will host a Disney Fairy Tale Weddings showcase, while Downtown Disney District will offer exclusive food, merchandise, and discounts for D23 attendees and Gold Members at select locations throughout the first half of August.

The day concludes with one of the weekend’s biggest exclusives: Disney Princess: The Ultimate Concert Celebration, a spectacular nighttime performance at Disney California Adventure featuring the largest gathering of Disney Princess talent ever assembled. Attendance is extremely limited through a virtual queue, making it one of the most sought-after experiences leading into D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event.

Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party (August 13, 2026)

Also taking place on Thursday, August 13, the Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party returns to Disney California Adventure Park with a full day of entertainment designed especially for preschoolers and their families. Included with regular park admission, the one-day celebration brings favorite Disney Jr. characters to life through interactive shows, dance parties, crafts, and limited-time experiences.

The centerpiece of the event is the Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Block Party, a lively mini-parade that begins at 10:30 a.m. in Hollywood Land before making festive stops along Hollywood Boulevard and Carthay Circle. Filled with music, colorful vehicles, and appearances from Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and beloved Disney Jr. characters, it’s one of the biggest family-friendly offerings of D23 weekend.

Photo Courtesy of Disney

Throughout Hollywood Land, guests can enjoy Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Live at the Hollywood Backlot Stage, dance with Mickey Mouse and friends, and meet favorite characters from hit series including Sofia the First: Royal Magic, SuperKitties, and Spidey and his Amazing Friends. Sofia the First will even debut an all-new royal look during special character appearances.

Young guests ages 3 to 11 can participate in Confection Purrfection with the SuperKitties, an interactive cupcake-decorating activity inspired by the popular Disney Jr. series. Space is limited, with sign-ups beginning 45 minutes before each session. Families can also create keepsakes together at the Disney Jr. Craft Zone, learn to draw Pepper—the puppy-unicorn from Sofia the First: Royal Magic—and other Disney Jr. favorites at Animation Academy, or capture the day with themed photo opportunities and photo booth keepsakes.

The celebration doesn’t end after Thursday. From August 14-16, Disney Jr. Let’s Play! festivities continue in Downtown Disney District with DJ dance parties, live entertainment, family crafts, the popular Bubbles Experience presented by Disney Jr., and additional themed photo opportunities, allowing families to keep the fun going throughout D23 weekend.

Disney Princess: The Ultimate Concert Celebration (Thursday, August 13)

One of the biggest surprises of D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event actually begins before the convention officially opens. As part of D23 Day at Disneyland Resort on Thursday, August 13, Disney will present Disney Princess: The Ultimate Concert Celebration at Disney California Adventure.

The one-night-only performance is being billed as the largest gathering of Disney Princess talent ever assembled, bringing together music and performers from Disney Animation, live-action films, Broadway, and Disney’s musical legacy. The concert will feature dazzling lighting effects, sweeping projections, and fountains that transform the park into an immersive celebration of Disney Princess stories.

Because demand is expected to be high, attendance will be extremely limited. Guests will need:

• A valid Disney California Adventure Park admission
• A virtual queue confirmation
• A wristband to enter the performance area

Disney has also noted that additional participation requirements may apply, and showtimes are subject to change or cancellation.

If you aren’t lucky enough to attend in person, you’ll still be able to watch from home. Disney has confirmed the concert will stream on Disney+ and air on Disney Channel, Freeform, and ABC’s The Wonderful World of Disney on Sunday, August 16, giving every D23 fan a chance to experience this special kickoff to World Princess Week.

Disney Entertainment Showcase (August 14, 2026)

Held Friday at the Honda Center, this marquee presentation spotlights Disney’s expansive entertainment slate. Expect major announcements, exclusive footage, celebrity appearances, and first looks at upcoming films and series from across Disney’s powerhouse studios.

Disney Experiences Showcase (August 15, 2026)

This marquee presentation focuses on Disney’s parks, cruise line, and immersive experiences around the world. The Disney Experiences Showcase offers a glimpse into future attractions, innovations, and storytelling developments led by Walt Disney Imagineering and Disney Experiences.

Disney Legends Award Ceremony (August 16, 2026)

This heartfelt ceremony honors individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to The Walt Disney Company. The Disney Legends Award Ceremony celebrates the artists, performers, and visionaries whose work has shaped Disney’s legacy.

D23 Panels, Presentations, and More

• A New Feature-Length Documentary from Leslie Iwerks – Be among the first to see a new Disney+ documentary exploring how Disney Parks have inspired generations of storytellers, followed by a discussion with filmmakers.
• Hey Jonas! Live at D23: Celebrating Disney Legends – Kevin, Joe, and Nick Jonas celebrate becoming Disney Legends with a live podcast recording featuring stories from their Disney careers and special guests.
• Disney Rewind Concert – A nostalgic live concert celebrating Disney music from the 1980s and 1990s, performed by Disney and Broadway stars.
• A Whole New World of Alan Menken – Disney Legend Alan Menken performs beloved songs while sharing stories from his legendary career in film and theater.
• D23 Mousequerade – Disney’s fan-favorite costume competition returns with celebrity judges and Disney-inspired creations from fans.
• The Simpsons: Stories from Springfield – The cast and creative team discuss how The Simpsons has continued to evolve after more than three decades.
• The Muppets Musical History with Seth MacFarlane – Seth MacFarlane and guests celebrate the iconic music of The Muppets and preview his upcoming orchestral album.
• Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Season 3 – Cast and producers preview Season 3 with behind-the-scenes stories and new details.
• Camp Rock 3: The Next Generation – Stars discuss bringing the next chapter of the Camp Rock franchise to Disney audiences.
• Bluey: From the Backyard to the Big Screen – Learn how Bluey grew from an Australian children’s series into a global phenomenon ahead of its feature film.
• Disney Experiences Auction – Browse and bid on authentic Disney Parks artifacts and collectibles during a live auction event.
• LEGO Star Wars Screening Event – Enjoy a special screening celebrating the LEGO Star Wars universe.
• Lettuce Show You How We Make Bob’s Burgers! – The creative team demonstrates how an episode comes together from script to animation.
• Scrubs: Scrubbing Back In – The cast and producers reunite to celebrate the return of the beloved comedy series.
• Beauty and the Beast: A Tale as Old as Time – Celebrate 35 years of the animated classic with filmmakers, artists, and Broadway performers.
• Zootopia: Ten Years in the Mammal Metropolis – A look back at a decade of Zootopia across films, Disney+, and Disney Parks.
• Beyond the Magic: Disney Pin Trading – Disney’s pin designers discuss how collectible pins are imagined and created.
• The Quests Ahead for Disney Lorcana – Ravensburger shares what’s next for the Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game, including future releases.
• Deep Dive into Kingdom Hearts – Celebrate 25 years of the beloved franchise with developers, voice talent, and behind-the-scenes stories.
• Disney Legends in Conversation – Newly inducted Disney Legends reflect on their careers during a panel hosted by Robin Roberts.
• Disney & National Geographic: Capturing the Wonder of Nature – Storytellers discuss how real-world adventures and conservation inspire Disney storytelling.
• Animating the Action: Disney Magic Live on ESPN – Learn how Disney characters and animation are being integrated into live sports broadcasts.
• Disney | Marvel: A Legacy of Stories – Explore the history of Marvel and Disney storytelling through comics, films, and archival material.
• Future of Digital Comics – Disney, Marvel, and WEBTOON discuss bringing classic stories to a new generation of readers.
• Celebrate 65 Years of Marvel’s Spider-Man! – Celebrate Spider-Man’s enduring legacy with creators, sneak peeks, and special guests.
• Marvel Fanfare – Marvel Comics looks back at Spider-Man’s greatest stories and shares exclusive giveaways.
• Making Disney Magic with Ron Clements – Legendary animator Ron Clements discusses his new book and career creating Disney classics.
• Floating Mountains: A Conversation with Joe Rohde – Imagineering legend Joe Rohde reflects on Animal Kingdom, Aulani, and his creative philosophy.
• HUZ: Drawn to Life – A behind-the-scenes look at a new documentary celebrating animator Ron Husband and his Disney legacy.
• Walt Disney: 125 Years of Inspiration – A tribute celebrating Walt Disney’s birthday through stories, performances, and memories.
• Disney Music Presents: The Art of the Score – Composer Michael Giacchino explores the process of creating memorable Disney film scores.
• Disney and the GRAMMYs: A Musical Legacy – Award-winning artists discuss the lasting impact of Disney music.
• Ink & Paint at Disney Animation – Watch Disney artists demonstrate the traditional animation process from sketch to finished cel.
• Your Dream, Your Valley: Disney Dreamlight Valley – Developers preview the future of the popular life-simulation game.
• Disney Style Around the World – A showcase of Disney-inspired fashion collaborations and upcoming merchandise.
• Disney-fying Your Home with Interior Design Magic – Designers and Disney fans share ideas for incorporating Disney into home décor.
• The Force of Innovation: Hasbro’s Grogu Animatronic – Discover how Hasbro developed one of its most advanced Star Wars collectibles.
• The Impact & Legacy of Disney Toys – Historians explore more than a century of Disney toys and collectibles.
• Worlds of Tinker Bell – A celebration of Tinker Bell’s evolution from Peter Pan to the Disney Fairies franchise.
• 20 Years of Enchanted – Celebrate the fan-favorite film with director Kevin Lima, Nina West, and special guests.
• 75 Years of Alice in Wonderland – Rare artwork and restored footage highlight the making of the animated classic.
• One Hundred and One Dalmatians 65th Anniversary – A look back at the groundbreaking animation techniques behind the film.
• Searching for the Swiss Family Robinson Tree House – Disney artist Kevin Kidney retraces the real-world filming locations that inspired the Disneyland attraction.
• Bedknobs and Broomsticks: 55 Magical Years – Explore the making of the classic Disney musical through rare artwork and archival stories.
• The Sherman Brothers on the Record – Hear rare recordings and stories celebrating Disney’s legendary songwriting duo.
• Great Moments with Walt Disney – Disney historians share humorous stories and rare footage of Walt Disney.
• Houses Walt Built – Explore the homes where Walt Disney lived through rare photographs and personal stories.
• The Carolwood Foundation Presents: Walt’s Barn – Learn the history of Walt Disney’s backyard railroad and the preservation efforts surrounding it.
• Restoration at Disney – Disney’s restoration experts explain how classic films are preserved for future generations.
• Sounds Delightful – A nostalgic journey through Disney music using rare recordings and vintage audio collections.
• Spotlight Stage presented by Fandango – Throughout the weekend, enjoy celebrity interviews, trivia competitions, sing-alongs, live performances, artist demonstrations, and interactive workshops on the show floor.

Shopping Experiences

Shopping at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event

If you’re attending D23, be prepared: shopping is practically its own attraction. Many of the event’s most exclusive collectibles, apparel, artwork, and pins are only available during the weekend, and Disney has expanded the shopping lineup even further for 2026 with several brand-new retail experiences.

Returning favorites like The Walt Disney Company Store, Mickey’s of Glendale, Disney Store, Disney Publishing Books & Brew, and the D23 Marketplace will all be back, joined by new additions including Disney .YNSD, a contemporary Walt Disney Imagineering lifestyle brand, a dedicated D23 Marketplace Pin Store, and The Disney Experiences Auction – Rare and Remarkable Finds, where fans can browse (and bid on) authentic Disney Parks props, artwork, and other one-of-a-kind collectibles. Disney Store will also feature artist meet-and-greets with special sketch and signing opportunities, while Disney Publishing Books & Brew returns with author signings, first-to-market Disney books, and an exclusive Disneyland Resort coffee blend from Joffrey’s.

Collectors will find no shortage of exclusive merchandise throughout the convention. Expect limited-edition pins released daily, event-exclusive Spirit Jerseys, Loungefly bags, RSVLTS apparel, Nike collaborations, HARVEYS bags crafted from retired Soarin’ Over California seatbelts, Disney Lorcana exclusives, Disney Fine Art, books, vinyl records, and much more. Fans can also shop special collections celebrating The Princess Diaries 25th anniversary, Walt Disney’s historic Suite 3H office, and other milestone Disney anniversaries that will only be available during the event.

How Shopping Works

Disney is once again using a combination of virtual queues, standby queues, mobile ordering, and mobile checkout to help manage crowds.

Most of the highest-demand stores—including D23 Marketplace, Mickey’s of Glendale, The Walt Disney Company Store, Disney .YNSD, Disney Studio Store Hollywood, and Ravensburger—will require joining a virtual queue through the Disney D23 app or Disneyland app. Queue registration opens each day at 6 AM and again at 1 PM Pacific, provided you’re within 90 miles of the Anaheim Convention Center. Some standby lines may become available later in the day after all virtual queue boarding groups have been called.

Many locations also support merchandise mobile checkout or mobile order pickup through the Disneyland app, allowing you to spend less time standing in line and more time exploring everything else D23 has to offer.

One notable change for 2026 is the Disney Store shopping experience. Rather than carrying purchases around the convention, guests will scan QR codes to shop and have eligible merchandise shipped directly to their homes. Visitors who enter the Disney Store booth can also scan their event badge to receive a complimentary event-exclusive tote bag or collectible sticker while supplies last.

Pro Tip: If exclusive merchandise is high on your priority list, download both the Disney D23 app and Disneyland app before arriving, sign in ahead of time, and be ready to join virtual queues as soon as they open each morning. Popular merchandise often sells out early, especially limited-edition pins and Disney Lorcana collectibles. Even if you aren’t attending D23, Disney has announced that select event merchandise will become available on DisneyStore.com beginning August 17 while supplies last.

Disney Legends

To conclude D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, Disney typically honors its newest class of Disney Legends. The program honors animators, Imagineers, songwriters, actors, and business leaders who have made a significant impact on The Walt Disney Company. The Legends are chosen by a selection committee, which was formerly chaired by the late Roy E. Disney.

Photo Courtesy of Disney

Ryan Seacrest will return as host for the ceremony, taking place on Sunday, August 16 at 1:30 PST at the Honda Center. The 2026 Disney Legends Award honorees will include: Bob Iger, Susan Egan, Dwayne Johnson, Anne Hathaway, Alan Tudyk, the Jonas Brothers, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Eric Goldberg, Jerry Bruckheimer, Chris Berman, and Kim Irvine.

D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event Frequently Asked Questions

We’re answering some of your biggest questions about the D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event for 2024. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions going into the event, for both those attendees and those watching at home.

Can I still get tickets to D23: The Ultimate Fan Event?

D23 tickets will go on sale beginning March 31 at 10 AM PST for D23 Gold Charter Members, opening up to D23 Gold Members on Essential, Choice, and Complete Plans on April 2 at 10 AM PST. Finally, D23 Gold Members on a Complimentary Plan through Disney+ perks will be able to purchase beginning April 2 at 12 PM PST.

I have a ticket for D23: The Ultimate Fan Event at the Anaheim Convention Center, does that mean I can also go to the presentation at the Honda Center?

The Honda Center presentations during D23: The Ultimate Fan Event require a separate ticket.

Is there an app for D23: The Ultimate Fan Event?

Yes, you can find the D23 App in the App Store or Google Play Store. If you already have the app, check for updates that will allow you to have the best event experience possible.

Can I join stand-by lines at D23: The Ultimate Fan Event?

Reservations for presentations and experiences at the Anaheim Convention Center have, in the past, been issued by random selection; additional stand-by queues may be available during the event.If you have a reservation for a presentation at the Anaheim Convention Center, it is recommended that you join the line 45 minutes before the start of the presentation to be seated.

For the Honda Center presentations, no standby lines will be available.

What can I bring with me to D23: The Ultimate Fan Event?

The Honda Center has a strict no-bag policy: no bags larger than 5”x9”x2” are allowed (medical and diaper bags cannot exceed 12”x12”x12”). No backpacks or mini-backpacks are permitted. Bag check is available at the Anaheim Convention Center, and items can be stored up until 90 minutes after the Honda Center presentations end.

All persons and baggage will be subject to security screening, and firearms, weapons, knives, and ammunition are all prohibited.

Can I bring food to D23: The Ultimate Fan Event?

No outside food, beverages, or coolers are permitted, though exceptions will be made for guests with special dietary needs. Empty refillable water bottles are permitted at the Anaheim Convention Center but are not permitted at the Honda Center. Food and beverage offerings are available at the Anaheim Convention Center and the Honda Center.

How do I get between the Anaheim Convention Center and the Honda Center during D23: The Ultimate Fan Event?

Complimentary Shuttle Service will be provided on a first-come, first serve basis, and paid parking is available at the Honda Center.

Can I wear a costume to D23: The Ultimate Fan Event?

Yes, costumes are encouraged but guests who dress as Disney characters may nimbly that they are an official Disney character. Please see guidelines here.

Are there any benefits for D23 Gold Members at D23: The Ultimate Fan Event?

D23 Gold Members have access to benefits and discounts all weekend long – get details on offer spots here.

How do I become a D23 Member?

Become a General or Gold D23 Member at this link.