Search Results for: disney books

Book Review: The Art of the Disney Golden Books

5 September 2014 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Zannaland readers are in for a treat, as I’ve finally recruited one of the utmost authorities on Disney books from fact to fiction, from comics to concept art – Scott Otis (or @otisney to some), to share his thoughts in the form of book reviews for us here. Maybe we’ll eventually get him to give us his top 41 Disney Books of All Time too! Please welcome him and enjoy his first review below:

There is more treasure in books than in all the pirates’ loot on Treasure Island and at the bottom of the Spanish Main… and best of all, you can enjoy these riches every day of your life. — Walt Disney

Hello! My name is Scott and I love books, especially Disney books. So, I’ve decided to start reviewing some of them here. I have an extensive Disney library and hopefully I will be able to write many book reviews for you to enjoy here both from my existing collection and new releases, and hopefully it might influence you to expand your personal Disney library as well. Happy reading!

The Big Little (Golden) Book of Pictures – The Art of the Disney Golden Books by Charles Solomon

There were images in the Little Golden Books I was living in, in the backseat of our car on the way to the grocery store. I would dive in and live there, and it felt good. Even if I couldn’t read then — and I was looking at those books long before I could read — they contained amazing worlds. They were warm, inviting, and delicious. I loved them.

— Chris Sanders, Lilo & Stitch writer-director

When I saw that Disney was going to release a book about the history and the art of the Disney Golden Books, I was incredibly intrigued. Just when I thought Disney had written a book about every possible topic, here comes another one about something I had never even considered. I grew up reading Golden Books just like any other kid of my generation, I would assume. So, I remember fondly times in my childhood where my mother would read me shortened versions of some of Disney’s finest movies and stories through the Disney Golden Books. Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, the Uncle Remus Stories, Cinderella and Dumbo were some of the ones I remembered the most from my childhood.

Especially the gorgeous pictures and vibrant colors. They weren’t exactly like the scenes from the movies, but close enough, and beautiful in their own way. So, it comes as no surprise that the pictures and story art are the standout stars of this book. Its 160 pages are jam-packed with exquisite examples of some of the finest artwork put out by the Disney Studios and by some of its greatest artists.

Walt Disney’s favorite artist Mary Blair is well-represented here, as she should be. Her artwork stands out with its unique interpretations and bright colors. And it’s wonderful to see the dynamic work of such storied Disney legends as, John Hench, Bill Justice, Joe Grant, Bill Peet, Gustaf Tenggren, and Martin and Alice Provensen displayed on the book’s oversized pages.

Mary Blair, 1944. Note her take on Tinker Bell and the Darling children (9 years before the release of Peter Pan) and Lady (11 years before the release of Lady and the Tramp) and Mole (5 years before the release of The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad)

The Art of the Disney Golden Books is spread through seven chapters: History, Art & Artists, Memories, Influences, Creations, Discoveries and Legacy. It begins with a history of Disney’s long, symbiotic relationship with the Golden Books and the companies that have published them. It then describes many of the Golden Books artists accompanied by fine examples of their work. The next few chapters include many stories and memories from the animation industry’s finest artists, as well as some of the artists that illustrate today’s Disney Golden Books.

Yes, it’s quite amazing that even today, Disney Golden Books are still being produced and subsequently loved by the newest generation of children. With the recent acquisition of Pixar, all of its wonderful stories are being interpreted into Little Golden Books. And all of Disney’s recent successes from Tangled, Wreck-It Ralph and the incredibly popular Frozen have become Little Golden books too. Overall, I very much enjoyed The Art of the Disney Golden Books. The writing was a little clunky and jumped from artist to artist with little transition, but it effectively told the story of Disney’s Golden Books, a story that I wasn’t previously aware of. And I’m very grateful for it. As I said, the art is the true star here and the book is worth getting just for that. The book is available now in stores and Disney Parks:

Have you all seen this book? What are your thoughts? Do you have a set of Disney Golden books for you or your children? I’d love to hear any stories you may have. And, if you have any recommendations for future book reviews, please let me know.

Close Cover Before Striking: Walt Disney World Matchbooks From Days Gone By

28 June 2010 by Suzannah Otis 20 Comments

On that fateful trip I often speak about in 1983, in addition to starting my obsession with Disney, I also began a new tradition of collecting matches. When I chose that particular item to collect, I never once thought a time would come when my collecting would become increasingly difficult to near impossible. Some of you reading this may remember, while others of you may have had your parents tell you – back in the 80’s times were very different. Non-smoking sections were just becoming an option and if you could find one, it was usually only separated by a single table. With two smokers for parents, we were always in the smoking section so often times a new set of matches would be waiting for us on the table inside the cleaned ashtray. If they weren’t, you simply had to ask the hostess, bartender, or server for a book and they would oblige without a second thought.

It wasn’t until the litigious era of suing bars because a book of matches was found in the car of a driver who had caused an accident, that times began to change. Some restaurants turned to plain matchbook covers so as to remove that element of liability for not cutting off a drinker before damage was done. At the same time, tobacco companies were under fire for cigarettes’ carcinogen effects as well as something new that was being studied – second-hand smoke. As the non-smoking section became a redundant request, soon it was a waste of money for most establishments to have matches printed and available. Now, almost 30 years later, it is almost impossible to find unique printed matches to collect.

Which is why I love my collection all the more. It is now a time capsule of sorts from both my childhood memories, and from a time gone by that can never be revisited again. Of course the matches I collected on our many trips to Walt Disney World are what I’d like to share with you today. They offer glimpses of the way things used to be in the world – and the World. Matches from EPCOT with the original logo, Disney-MGM Studios, Pleasure Island, Fireworks Factory, and the original Chef Mickeys located in the Disney Village Marketplace. Tiny little treasure boxes almost as good as any E-ticket – to me anyway…

Disney Matchbooks — Can you identify them all? (There are a few non-Disney but now-defunct extras in there too)

Do you have any Disney matches or another collection that is now defunct? I’d love to hear about them!

D23: Ultimate Disney Fan Event-2026 MEGA GUIDE!

21 July 2026 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Wow! It’s hard to believe 2 years have passed and we are almost at the start of another D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event (formerly D23 Expo)! Are you headed to this incredible 3-day event of ALL things Disney and beyond? I’ll be there again covering all the fun and frolicking, and thought I’d share a guide with all the updates as they go live! Of course, I’ll be sharing things on @Zannaland on instagram as they happen and I’m able to update as well! AND, we’ll be breaking down all the news and updates on Up the Waterfall podcast! It’s always an exciting time full of all the things that make being an ULTIMATE Disney fan FUN!

Here are the latest updates straight from the D23 press releases!

July 28, 2026:

Check out the floor map for the 2026 D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event! See the map below but click the link to the left for the full sized pdf!

July 21, 2026:

Disney Announces New Shopping Experiences and Exclusive Merchandise Available to Fans at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan EventA first look at the curated stores, limited-edition collectibles, interactive activities, immersive experiences, and treasured keepsakes awaiting fans at this year’s event.

Discover all-new stores including a D23 Marketplace Pin Store, Disney .YNSD by Mickey’s of Glendale, and The Disney Experiences Auction – Rare and Remarkable Finds from Disney Parks.

BURBANK, California – July 21, 2026 – Today, Disney unveiled the full lineup of exclusive retail experiences and merchandise coming to D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa, taking place August 14, 15, and 16, 2026, in Anaheim, California. Shopping will once again be a cornerstone of this year’s celebration, offering fans even more ways to engage with the stories, characters, and brands they love. Highlights include an all-new store from Mickey’s of Glendale; The Disney Experiences Auction – Rare and Remarkable Finds from Disney Parks featuring props, artwork, and other unique treasures; limited-edition pins and collectibles; first-to-market brand collaborations and books; event-exclusive apparel; collectible vinyl records; and more.

Spanning the Disney universe, these curated shopping destinations transform retail into an immersive part of the event, offering attendees access to exclusive releases, limited-edition merchandise, and unique treasures available only at the event, while creating new ways for fans to celebrate their connection to Disney. Reflecting the passion of Disney’s global fandom and the company’s unmatched ability to create cherished stories that span generations, D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event is one of the most highly anticipated events of the year and brings Disney’s unmatched ability to create meaningful connections to life through experiences designed especially for its most passionate fans.

“Shopping is a fan-favorite part of the event, and this year our teams across Disney have come together to make it truly one of a kind,” said Michael Vargo, head of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club. “We can’t wait for fans to discover exclusive merchandise they won’t find anywhere else and take a piece of the magic home to enjoy long after the event ends.”

WHERE TO SHOP

D23 Marketplace

Turn shopping dreams into reality at the D23 Marketplace, D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event’s central shopping hub. Offering a curated assortment of merchandise and must-have collectibles, fans visiting this location will find products celebrating some of Disney’s most beloved stories, characters, and franchises including a The Princess Diaries 25th Anniversary Collection, Star Wars and Marvel must-haves, global Disney Parks collections, the return of Disney Fine Art, and so much more. New at this year’s event is the D23 Marketplace Pin Store, a dedicated space featuring specially curated limited-edition and limited-release pins, with new designs released Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Completing the space is D23 Marketplace Photobooths and Medallions, home to personalized products and event exclusive medallions.

Fans will be able to access the D23 Marketplace and D23 Marketplace Pin Store via virtual queue throughout the event with a standby queue option opening after all boarding groups have been redeemed. The D23 Marketplace Photobooths and Medallions will be accessible via standby queue. All three locations will be cashless with card and contactless payment options accepted. D23 Marketplace will offer merchandise mobile checkout and the D23 Marketplace Pin Store will offer mobile order.

Disney Store

The official home of Disney retail is coming back to D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. At Disney Store, fans can shop uniquely imagined special-edition products and collections including Disney x Formula 1®, Blooms by Disney, and an assortment of Disney Store exclusive plush, as well as preview an all-new collaboration with SkinnyDip London. In addition to immersive shopping, the Disney Store booth will also offer interactive experiences including a life-size claw machine photo moment and a limited meet and greet with Disney Artists, featuring special sketch and signing opportunities which fans can pre-register for in the Disney D23 app from now to Friday, July 24, at 12 p.m. PT. Attendees who enter the main entrance of the Disney Store booth can also scan their badge to receive a free event-exclusive, limited-release tote bag or sticker featuring new character illustrations by Disney Artists, while supplies last.

Fans will be able to access the Disney Store via standby queue. Shopping in the Disney Store booth will operate via QR Code where fans will scan to shop and have products delivered directly to their homes via DisneyStore.com. Starting Monday, August 17, at 8 a.m. PT, select merchandise sold during D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event at the D23 Marketplace and at the Disney Store booth will be available, while supplies last, at DisneyStore.com/d23-event/.

The Walt Disney Company Store

Back for its second year at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event is The Walt Disney Company Store with two store locations in the Anaheim Convention Center. The first location, The Walt Disney Company Store, will exclusively host the official collection for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event 2026 featuring brand collaborations from RSVLTS, Spirit Jersey, Nike, and Loungefly. In collaboration with the Walt Disney Archives, this store will introduce a collection inspired by Walt Disney’s iconic office in Burbank, Calif.—Suite 3H—where creativity and imagination came to life, a tribute to the visionary who started it all. This location will also feature collections showcasing some fan-favorite Disney animated Epic Rivals, iconic Walt Disney Studios landmarks, and an all-new collection from HARVEYS with one-of-a-kind designs developed through decommissioned seatbelts from Soarin’ Over California. The Walt Disney Company Pin Store will offer a large assortment of limited-edition pins, mystery boxes, and framed sets, perfect for pin collectors of all levels. For a preview of what’s to come at The Walt Disney Company Store, fans can visit D23.com. All merchandise is subject to availability with a daily pin catalogue launching each day: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Fans will be able to access The Walt Disney Company Store via virtual queue on Friday, August 14, with a standby queue option opening after all boarding groups have been redeemed. Saturday, August 15, and Sunday, August 16, will offer standby queue options only. The Walt Disney Company Store will be cashless with only card and contactless payment options accepted alongside merchandise mobile checkout. Fans will be able to access The Walt Disney Company Pin Store via virtual queue throughout the event with a standby queue option opening after all boarding groups have been redeemed. The Walt Disney Company Pin Store will be cashless with only card and contactless payment options accepted, processed via mobile order. Physical registers will also be accessible and used for all pin frame sales.

Mickey’s of Glendale

Returning to D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in 2026 with all-new Walt Disney Imagineering-inspired merchandise is Mickey’s of Glendale and Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store. Developed especially for fans who love the artistry behind Disney’s Parks, attractions, and stories, Mickey’s of Glendale is the Walt Disney Imagineering campus store and houses exclusive merchandise assortments, pins, and more made by Walt Disney Imagineers. For a preview of what’s to come at Mickey’s of Glendale, fans can visit the Disney Parks Blog. For the collectors, Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store will be a must-visit, launching a new assortment of limited-edition and exclusive pins Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Fans will be able to access Mickey’s of Glendale via virtual queue throughout the event with a standby queue option opening after all boarding groups have been redeemed. Mickey’s of Glendale will be cashless with only card and contactless payment options accepted, alongside merchandise mobile checkout. Fans will be able to access the Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store via virtual queue throughout the event with a standby queue option opening after all boarding groups have been redeemed. Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store will be cashless with card and contactless payment options, processed via mobile order.

NEW: Disney .YNSD

Debuting at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event 2026 is Disney .YNSD, a personal expression of the living design culture behind Walt Disney Imagineering across apparel, accessories, and beyond. Each lifestyle collection blends contemporary streetwear and layered storytelling, bridging style through thoughtful design, inviting fans to wear the magic and “IMAGINE THE REST.” A preview of the collections that will be featured at Disney .YNSD can be found on the Disney Parks Blog.

Fans will be able to access Disney .YNSD via virtual queue throughout the event, with a standby queue option opening after all boarding groups have been redeemed. Disney .YNSD will be cashless with only card and contactless payment options accepted, processed via mobile order.

Disney Studio Store Hollywood

Step into the glamour of classic Hollywood at the Disney Studio Store Hollywood, home to apparel, accessories, and more inspired by the timeless magic of the iconic entertainment capital. Fans visiting this location can shop an all-new curated collection inspired by the El Capitan Theatre’s Centennial Celebration alongside limited-edition pins being released across all three event days: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

Fans will be able to access the Disney Studio Store Hollywood via virtual queue throughout the event with a standby queue option opening after all boarding groups have been redeemed. Disney Studio Store Hollywood will be cashless with only card and contactless payment options accepted, alongside merchandise mobile checkout.

Disney Publishing Books & Brew

The hub for Disney best-selling books, reading-inspired products, and beyond is returning to D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. Disney Publishing will house first-to-market books including must-read graphic novels, autobiographies, and guidebooks as well as collectible “bookcessories,” tarot card decks, book nook kits, and more. At this destination, fans can also enjoy a steady cadence of book signings with some fan-favorite authors as well as a “sip & shop” experience featuring a delicious new Disneyland Resort coffee blend from Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Co. Marquee booth sponsor Penguin Random House will offer gift-with-purchase items, including art prints, sticker blind bags, Disney Editions tote bags, and more.

Fans will be able to access Disney Publishing Books & Brew and make merchandise purchases via standard queue throughout the event. Disney Publishing Books & Brew will be cashless with only card and contactless payment options accepted. Registration to attend in-booth signings will be conducted via virtual queue.

NEW: The Disney Experiences Auction – Rare and Remarkable Finds

Debuting at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in 2026 is The Disney Experiences Auction – Rare and Remarkable Finds on Sunday, August 16, for fans both at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event and globally online. Fans attending the event can preview items up for auction throughout the event weekend by visiting The Disney Experiences Auction Showroom. This is an immersive experience space via standby queue. Details for fans who want to bid will be communicated closer to the event. In addition, the show room will include a shopping experience that will allow fans a unique opportunity to shop rare and remarkable limited quantity props, artwork, and themed items found within Disney’s Parks, Resorts, and ships. A preview of items available during the event can be found here.

Fans will be able to access The Disney Experiences Auction – Rare and Remarkable Finds via virtual queue throughout the event with a standby queue option opening after all boarding groups have been redeemed. The Disney Experiences Auction – Rare and Remarkable Finds will be cashless with only card and contactless payment options accepted, alongside merchandise mobile checkout. Due to the exclusivity of the product, this location will not offer refunds or exchanges.

D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will also have some fan-favorite brands and shopping opportunities throughout the show floor featuring D23-exclusive merchandise, including mini backpacks and pins from Loungefly; a lineup of new Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars-inspired Spirit Jerseys; accessory bundles from Little Words Project; an array of Disney inspired watches from Citizen; and more. Brands including Just Play, Wizards of the Coast, Topps, NECA/KidRobot/Enesco, Pandora, Crocs, Her Universe, BoxLunch, Girls Crew, RSVLTS, and more will also have new products available for purchase. Fans of Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game can purchase the limited-edition 2026 D23 Collection and the Winnie the Pooh – Hunny Wizard Premium Foil Playmat at the Ravensburger Store on the show floor. Shopping at the Ravensburger Store will only be available through virtual queue. No standby shopping queues will be available during the event at any time.

HOW TO SHOP

Disney is dedicated to a seamless experience for fans visiting D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event and are excited to announce the return of services that will allow fans optimal opportunity to both shop and explore the show floor. All services can be found through the Disney D23 app and the Disneyland Resort app, available for download on the app store for iOS and Android devices.

Virtual Queue

Select retail destinations will require virtual queue for entry. Sign up for a boarding group with virtual queue and explore the show floor while waiting to shop. Starting 6 a.m. PT and at 1 p.m. PT each day of the event, fans within a 90-mile radius of the Anaheim Convention Center can use the Disney D23 app and the Disneyland Resort app to enter a virtual queue. To provide all fans with an equal opportunity to shop, fans may join in a group of up to two (2) people, one queue at a time, subject to availability. Standby queue options may open throughout the weekend after all boarding groups have been redeemed. Joining the virtual queue does not grant immediate access, and there may still be a waiting period at the location once the boarding group is called. Virtual queue is limited in capacity and may book out. Valid admission is required. Traditional queuing (standby queue) is also available at locations not utilizing virtual queue throughout the event. Retailers who will be participating in virtual queue include D23 Marketplace, D23 Marketplace Pin Store, The Walt Disney Company Store, The Walt Disney Company Pin Store, Mickey’s of Glendale, Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store, Disney .YNSD, Disney Studio Store Hollywood, The Disney Experiences Auction – Rare and Remarkable Finds, and Ravensburger.

This year, Ravensburger will participate in Disney’s virtual queue. Fans will not be able to get in line to purchase products at the show without a virtual queue timeslot. In addition to the items included in the D23 Show Bundle, Ravensburger will also have additional products from Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game, Disney Villainous, and Disney puzzles for sale.

Mobile Order for Pickup

At select shopping destinations, fans will have the option to order and pay for merchandise using the Disneyland Resort app on their mobile device. After joining an eligible store’s virtual queue and being called back, fans will be granted access to place a mobile order at the store entrance. After the order is submitted, a team will assemble the products and fans will receive a notification when their order is ready for pickup. A digital receipt will be sent to the email linked to the Disneyland Resort app, and all eligible discounts will be automatically applied.

Merchandise Mobile Checkout

Save time while shopping by paying for items using the Disneyland Resort app at select retail destinations. Scan each item’s barcode to add it to a shopping bag and pay for items by selecting “Purchase.” Once a purchase is complete, show the QR code confirmation to a Cast Member at the merchandise mobile checkout designated exit to scan before exiting the store. A digital receipt will be sent to the email address linked to the Disneyland Resort app. The merchandise mobile checkout service is available in addition to traditional checkout services.

DISNEY ANNOUNCES EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES COMING TO THE LARGEST SHOW FLOOR EVER AT D23: THE ULTIMATE DISNEY FAN EVENT

Disney unveiled details about what fans will experience on the show floor at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa® . All-new and fan-favorite offerings will bring Disney’s brands and franchises to life like never before across the largest show floor in D23 event history. These expanded, immersive, and innovative experiences, along with unprecedented shopping opportunities and over 50 panels and shows, will be exclusively available to ticketholders during the can’t-miss fan event August 14, 15, and 16, 2026, at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California. Disney also announced an unprecedented Disney Princess concert taking place during D23 Day at Disneyland Resort on Thursday, August 13, the perfect kickoff to the weekend festivities and World Princess Week.
Guests can accept a new mission at Marvel Studios’ TVA Experience: A New Assignment; swap stories with the filmmakers behind a galaxy far, far away at the Lucasfilm pavilion; celebrate Pixar’s 40th anniversary; and travel into the worlds of Disney+ and Hulu in a signature 4D theater. Beyond the marquee studios, fans can venture into the rarely seen vaults of the Walt Disney Archives, get a glimpse of the future of the parks with the Imagineering: Horizons pavilion, discover standout offerings from some beloved brands, and come face-to-face with the magic makers who bring Disney stories to life across the company. Disney continues to create meaningful connections with audiences of all ages and the show floor will offer fans unprecedented opportunities to celebrate some beloved favorites, discover new adventures, and experience the magic in ways only Disney can deliver.

“No one tells stories like Disney, and this year we’re bringing those stories to life on the largest show floor in D23 event history,” said Michael Vargo, head of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club. “The show floor experience invites guests to explore, engage with, and celebrate the brands and franchises they love through immersive activations, unforgettable moments, and one-of-a-kind offerings that bring them closer to the magic than ever before.”

A KICKOFF CELEBRATION

D23 Day at Disneyland Resort* sets the stage for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, officially kicking off the highly anticipated weekend on Thursday, August 13. The celebration features a Disney Legends Cavalcade at Disneyland Park, a complimentary Mickey Mouse ear hat giveaway (while supplies last)**, and a series of magical offerings designed to immerse fans in the spirit of Disney storytelling from the very start. The day also features the return of the Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party at Disney California Adventure Park on Thursday, August 13, offering live entertainment, character experiences, and interactive activities for all guests, including preschoolers and their families.

As the culmination to the day and in anticipation of World Princess Week, a limited number of fans may have the opportunity to experience a live performance of Disney Princess: The Ultimate Concert Celebration at Disney California Adventure Park. This spectacular performance brings together the largest gathering of Disney Princess talent ever assembled, celebrating the iconic stories across animation, live-action, stage, and music. This one-of-a-kind concert will transform the night with dazzling lights, sweeping projections, and sky-high fountains creating a truly immersive world where the music, magic, and legacy of Disney Princesses shine like never before. Visit Disneyland.com for more information. Attendance will be limited and may require additional steps. A virtual queue confirmation, wristband, and valid admission for Disney California Adventure Park are required to participate in this experience. Show times are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Fans can stream the concert on Disney+ and watch it on Disney Channel, Freeform, and The Wonderful World of Disney on ABC on Sunday, August 16.

SPECTACULAR SHOW FLOOR EXPERIENCES

The creative powerhouse studios of The Walt Disney Company will bring the best of Disney storytelling to the expanded show floor, offering a chance for fans to immerse themselves in beloved films, shows, and streaming content.

The Disney+ Hulu Experience brings streaming to life like never before. The space features a signature 4D theater, exclusive merchandise, a collectible mystery pin quest, and personalized subscription support, alongside immersive photo opportunities inspired by Percy Jackson and the Olympians, FX’s American Horror Story, Camp Rock 3, The Simpsons, Only Murders in the Building, Marvel Television’s VisionQuest, and more.
Marvel Studios will captivate guests on the show floor with an epic activation entitled Marvel Studios’ TVA Experience: Your Next Assignment. Fans will once again join the Time Variance Authority (TVA) and step into the Marvel Cinematic Universe in an immersive walkthrough experience across different worlds, both familiar and new.
The Lucasfilm pavilion will return with an exciting array of photo ops, props, and costumes from current and upcoming stories set in a galaxy far, far away. Guests will also have the opportunity to join fireside chats with the filmmaking teams behind some of their favorite Star Wars shows and movies. Fans can also be among the first to see LEGO Star Wars: The Mandalorian during a special screening at the Anaheim Convention Center, adding to the incredible Lucasfilm experiences fans will see throughout the event.
Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Animation Studios are also joining forces for a must-see animation experience on the show floor, inclusive of a special celebration of Pixar’s 40th anniversary. Artist demonstrations, autograph signings with some top filmmakers, fan giveaways, and interactive displays featuring the latest films from these iconic animation studios—including the upcoming Disney’s Hexed and Disney Animation’s Frozen 3, as well as Disney and Pixar’s Gatto and Incredibles 3—make this pavilion one to visit again and again.
Mundo Pixar: The D23 Experience, presented by Disney Rewards Visa® Cards from Chase, will bring a special preview of its globally touring immersive exhibition to the event, inviting guests to step inside some of their favorite Pixar stories. From unforgettable photo moments to a dedicated merchandise shop, guests will experience life-size sets inspired by some of the studio’s most beloved films.
Inspired by the beauty of the Avatar films, the Avatar Experience welcomes guests to journey through the fascinating wonders of Pandora. Step into a lush, bioluminescent world, experience an immersive 4D moment, and explore a gallery of film artistry that showcases the craftsmanship behind bringing the Na’vi culture and Pandora to life.
At select times throughout the day, Bluey and Bingo will be available for photos in The Bluey Movie booth—for real life. Reservations are required for a chance to meet Bluey and Bingo.
Guests can also celebrate the new Simpsons movie—in theaters September 3, 2027—with fun, shareable photo moments to commemorate D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event.

The popular Disney Experiences pavilion is returning to the event, bringing the magic of the Disney Parks to the show floor for fans of all ages to enjoy. In a time of unprecedented growth, Imagineering: Horizons invites fans to explore their largest pavilion ever showcasing the progress shaping Disney Parks around the world. This exclusive experience gives an up‑close look at the people, the process, and the possibilities brought to life by Imagineers.

Additional fan-favorites include an all-new exhibition from the Walt Disney Archives. Walt Disney Archives: Uncrated will make its debut on the show floor and invite intrepid fans to uncover an unforgettable journey into the vast and hidden warehouses of the Walt Disney Archives—spaces previously reserved for access to Disney archivists, alone. Guests will have the chance to explore themed displays featuring shipments of iconic props, costumes, and puppets from some beloved films, television series, and theme parks, which span generations of history at The Walt Disney Company.

In advance of the Super Bowl on ESPN and ABC this season, fans can experience the thrill of a Super Bowl victory through ESPN’s immersive “We’re Going to the Super Bowl!” activation, featuring photo opportunities, stadium-inspired environments, a confetti-filled victory celebration, and keepsake digital content and giveaways, including an exclusive ESPN Super Bowl D23 pin.

Disney Theatrical Group will spotlight its expanding portfolio of live experiences, from Broadway productions and arena tours to immersive experiences, through a showcase featuring authentic sets, costumes, props, concept art, and dynamic video content. The experience will offer fans exclusive first looks at upcoming projects, behind-the-scenes demonstrations, and live presentations led by hosts, including Disney on Broadway star Ryan McCartan, providing an insider’s look at the creative process behind Disney’s live entertainment.

The Disney VoluntEARS pavilion will invite attendees to lend a helping hand as Honorary Disney VoluntEARS in different projects, assembling 8,000 kits per day for a charitable organization. On Friday, August 14, guests will build wish kits for children with upcoming Disney Wishes in collaboration with Make-A-Wish; on Saturday, August 15, fans will assemble welcome kits for military families with Blue Star Families; and on Sunday, August 16, attendees will put together Disney-themed activity kits for children in hospitals with the Starlight Children’s Foundation. Participants will cap off the experience with a photo opportunity as they exit the pavilion.

The Disney Music Group booth will invite guests into an interactive, music-filled environment. A classic radio booth will host scheduled on-air appearances, where some beloved Disney personalities from across the company will join for exclusive interviews tied to the event—and guests can step up to the microphone to record their own “Be Our Guest” segments with selected recordings eligible to be featured on the Disney Hits SiriusXM channel. A dedicated Disney Concerts area will give guests an up-close look at costumes from The Descendants/ZOMBIES: Worlds Collide Tour, while additional interactive moments include photo opportunities, prize wheel giveaways, and new exclusive offerings from Disney Music Emporium.

Treat yourself to an immersive walkthrough (or dance through) experience during Lights, Camera, Sparkle! Presented by Disney Consumer Products featuring photo opportunities across two exciting themes—one filled with unique Mickey & Friends and snack-inspired elements and another inspired by Stitch and Angel’s hit “Glitter Glide” music video. Whether you take a snacktastic selfie or the spotlight, there’s photo fun for everyone.

Throughout the show floor, incredible sponsors have created exciting activations for fans to enjoy, including:

Chevrolet: Celebrate 20 years of Disney and Pixar’s Cars with Chevrolet. Stop by to see the Chevrolet Colorado and Bolt in Cars-inspired wraps, snap pics with Lightning McQueen and Mater, score an exclusive canvas tote giveaway, and watch Trevor Carlton from Disney Fine Arts paint Chevy hoods live.
Heinz: Across oceans, cultures, and cuisines, great flavors bring us together. Explore the world aboard the HEINZ Flavor Ferry, sample globally inspired sauces, and snap photos across four regions. It’s a flavorful world after all, with HEINZ. Be among the first 570 flavor explorers each day to secure a limited-edition “it’s a flavorful world” pin—while supplies last.
Honda: Step into the magic of Disney Animation’s Encanto with Honda. Dance alongside some favorite characters at the photo opportunity, collect commemorative buttons, and explore the Honda Odyssey and Acura MDX inspired by the spirit of family and adventure.
M&M’S®: Step into the spotlight and “Be A Hero” with M&M’S® characters as they audition for the Marvel Universe. As part of this year’s M&M’S® x Marvel activation, immerse yourself in this exciting collaboration with photo booth moments, sampling, M&M’S® Marvel Mini Poster Fan Packs giveaways, and more.

For the first time ever at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, fans can enjoy the thrill of collecting with Topps through an interactive Topps Chrome Disney experience and exclusive trading card offerings. Fans of trading card games can also experience exclusive product offerings, accessories, and photo ops with Wizards of the Coast’s debut booth themed to Magic: The Gathering | MARVEL Super Heroes, and Ravensburger’s interactive Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game booth.

Fans can find other exciting offerings and activations across the show floor from some fan-favorite brands, including interactive photo ops with Marvel Legends role play items and the new Ultimate Grogu animatronic from Hasbro; D23 exclusive mini backpacks, mystery blind box tees, and more from Loungefly; a carnival-inspired game zone complete with giveaways and first looks of new Doorables and Happy Haul lines from Just Play; bracelets, bag charms, bead kits, and exclusive D23 merchandise featuring beloved Disney characters from Little Words Project; gameplay demos of Toy Story: Retro Round-Up and Toy Story 3 Complete Edition and an exclusive pin offering from Atari; an interactive light-inspired personality quiz from Citizen; a prize-packed claw machine, Jibbitz™ charms trading station, and new merchandise from Crocs; a never-before-seen collection of Disney charms, including charm mystery boxes from Pandora; and more.

Fans can also celebrate 125 years of the life of Walt Disney by exploring Walt’s family stories from The Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco, Walt Disney Hometown Museum in Marceline, and the Walt Disney Birthplace in Chicago; see displays of Walt’s famed classic vehicles from the Walt Disney Archives; reflect on Disney Legends of the past who worked alongside Walt; meet other friends of D23 including the Disneyana Fan Club; and more.

Many other new experiences can be discovered at the Anaheim Convention Center including the Disney Experiences Auction – Rare and Remarkable Finds display room on the second floor, the Disney x F1 Mickey car, as well as activations from Disney Cruise Line, Disney Vacation Club, Adventures by Disney, and more.

Some of the most prominent names from across the worlds of Disney will be onsite to meet with guests at Talent Central presented by M&M’S® that will be open each day on the show floor of the Anaheim Convention Center. Various Disney artists—including incoming Disney Legend Eric Goldberg and Disney Legend Mark Henn; Pixar’s Chief Creative Officer, Pete Docter; and current and former Imagineers—will be available to sign exclusive lithographs, fine-art prints, posters, and other art related to their projects. Stars from award-winning series and shows will be at the event to meet fans, including the stars of Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Camp Rock 3, Bob’s Burgers, The Proud Family, The Simpsons, Phineas & Ferb, and the Pros from Dancing with the Stars.

Readers of all ages will also have the opportunity to have their books signed by authors including Bob Weis, former president of Walt Disney Imagineering, and Disney Legend Joe Rohde, as well as meet the official voices of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, Bret Iwan and Kaitlyn Robrock, and artists from Disney Lorcana Trading Card Game, Magic: The Gathering | Marvel Super Heroes, Pin Trading, merchandise, and more.

For the first time, Fandango will serve as the presenting sponsor of the Spotlight Stage, which will return to the show floor with a full lineup of panels, interviews, presentations, musical performances, and interactive experiences. Featured programming will include Fandango Front Row, where Disney filmmakers and talent will join Fandango hosts for exclusive live conversations. Fans will hear firsthand about the creative process, the inspiration behind beloved Disney stories, exciting upcoming projects, and the magic that brings them to life. Throughout the day, guests can take part in demonstrations and lessons in voice acting, sketching, dancing, and more on the Spotlight Stage presented by Fandango.

Shopping and Exclusive Merchandise at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event

16 July 2024 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Shopping at the Anaheim Convention Center is bigger than ever before with new locations, interactive activities, can’t-miss merchandise, and more.

Today, Disney announced details of the augmented shopping experience coming to D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa®, including new locations and licensees, exclusive merchandise, and advanced technology to help ease the shopping experience. D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will bring the best in Disney storytelling and innovation to Anaheim, California, on August 9, 10, and 11, 2024, and guests will be able to experience expansive retail offerings from across the worlds of Disney, from limited edition pins to clothing, books, music, and more.

WHERE TO SHOP

World of Disney: The Product Experience
Disney fans are unlike any other and, at this year’s event, they will have the opportunity to take their fandom to the next level with World of Disney: The Product Experience, the must-visit destination to shop and explore new and limited-edition merchandise from D23 Marketplace, Disney Publishing, Disney Store, and more. This expansive and reimagined experience will be located on North Level 200 of the Anaheim Convention Center. Disney Consumer Products invites fans to interact and engage with some of their favorite products and stories from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars.

D23 Marketplace
Returning this year in a new location within World of Disney: The Product Experience is the D23 Marketplace. This 16,000 square-foot retail location will bring together the most exciting products from DisneyStore.com and Disney Parks, offering merchandise from fan-favorite collections including Disney Limited Edition Dolls; the brand-new vinyl series Disney Lacers; and Star Wars, Marvel, and Pixar must-haves. For those fans of Disney Pin Trading, this will also be a great spot to buy all-new limited-edition styles including a special collection that nods to the 25th Anniversary of Disney Pin Trading. Attendees will find a wide assortment of new product debuts, curated brand collections, specialty items, and milestone anniversary collectibles.

DisneyStore.com
Shop the stories you love with DisneyStore.com, the official home of genuine Disney merchandise for fans of all ages. Offering uniquely imagined special-edition products and collections, DisneyStore.com will have select items from D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event for sale, including Star Wars and Marvel must-haves, Disney Limited Edition Dolls, and the brand-new vinyl series, Disney Lacers, starting Monday, August 12 at 8 AM PT at DisneyStore.com/D23Event2024 while supplies last.

Disney Publishing
Disney Publishing shares stories that foster a love of reading, inspire natural curiosity, and excite fans. Home to best-selling books, comics, magazines, digital interactive storytelling products, audiobooks, and beyond, Disney Publishing merchandise will be located within World of Disney: The Product Experience as the premiere destination for Disney books, fan-favorite stories, and collectible titles. First-to-market books will be available including must-reads from Bob Weis, former President of Walt Disney Imagineering; Pete Docter, Pixar Animation Studios’ Chief Creative Officer; Martha Blanding, incoming Disney Legend; Ashley Eckstein, voice of Ahsoka Tano in the animated television series Star Wars: The Clone Wars, and more. These celebrated authors will also sign copies of their new books at both Talent Central and Live at World of Disney: The Product Experience. While they shop, fans can also enjoy a brand-new sip and shop experience featuring the latest blend from Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Co.

The Walt Disney Company Store
The Walt Disney Company Store is making its first appearance at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event with not one, but two locations on the show floor. The Walt Disney Company Store in Hall D will feature new merchandise from The Walt Disney Studios, the Walt Disney Archives, and The Walt Disney Company. From The Walt Disney Studios, guests will enjoy a collaboration with Loungefly featuring a Studio Patches Canvas Backpack, as well as a crossbody bag highlighting the renowned Team Disney building that includes a Disney Legends Award detachable coin purse. The Walt Disney Archives assortment will include a Studio Baseball League Jersey and The Walt Disney Company collection will include a stylish denim jacket, collegiate ivory tee, and sleek 16”computer sleeve. This location will also feature collectible figurines depicting iconic locations across The Walt Disney Studios Lot, including the Partners Statue, Sharing the Magic Statue, Pluto’s Corner Sign, and Water Tower. This location will be cashless. In collaboration with D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, The Walt Disney Company Store will now be home to the official merchandise for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. Fans will be able to shop a variety of products, from varsity jackets to a pin trading backpack.

D23 Expo 2024 Ultimate Fan Event Merchandise

The Walt Disney Company Pin Store
The Walt Disney Company Pin Store in Hall B will feature a large assortment of limited-edition pins with a new assortment daily on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. This store is a perfect spot for both new and experienced collectors. This location will be cashless.

Mickey’s of Glendale
Mickey’s of Glendale, the Walt Disney Imagineering store, returns to D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, with two stores in Hall C of the Anaheim Convention Center. This year at Mickey’s of Glendale, fans will find numerous collections featuring the work and talent of Disney Imagineers. These unique spotlight collections are inspired by Disney characters, theme park attractions, and more. Shop wickedly cute Disney Villain enamel figures or dive into the comic book world of Walt Disney’s The Sorcerer’s Apprentice.

Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store
Disney pin enthusiasts will want to stop by the Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store, which will release a new assortment of limited-edition pins daily on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store will be cashless and require guests to have the Disneyland app downloaded to their smartphone device to make a purchase. Come prepared and have the app downloaded and account created ahead of time.

Disney Studio Store Hollywood
The magic of Hollywood returns to Anaheim at the Disney Studio Store Hollywood, located in Hall B, where guests can purchase newly released limited-edition pins, framed pin sets, and official Disney Studio Store Hollywood branded apparel. New limited-edition pins will be released on Friday and Saturday. While at this location, guests can stop by and snap a selfie in a sweet photo op! The Disney Studio Store Hollywood will be cashless.

Sponsors and Licensees
D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will also have more fan-favorite brands and shopping opportunities than ever before throughout the show floor. Fans will find new and D23-exclusive merchandise including mini backpacks, keychains, and pins from Loungefly; a lab-grown Mickey Mouse pendant from Pandora; event-branded charms from RockLove Jewelry; and pieces featuring Disney Princess and Villain characters from Enchanted Disney Fine Jewelry. Fans will also see Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars-inspired watches from Citizen Watch and the limited-edition Infinity Gem Collection from East Continental Gems. Brands including Cakeworthy, RSVLTS, Rock ‘Em Socks, BoxLunch, and Her Universe will have new, event-exclusive, and first-to-purchase apparel for sale. Fans of Disney Lorcana TCG will have access to a limited-edition D23 Collection set at Ravensburger’s booth on the show floor, and Hallmark will have a Keepsake Ornament. Kidrobot is launching a new Stitch collection, and Just Play will have a new Disney Doorables collection, among other products.

HOW TO SHOP

Disney is dedicated to making the fan shopping experience seamless and is excited to announce the return of merchandise mobile checkout and virtual queue at select locations. Both services will be available through a direct link from the Disney D23 app to the Disneyland app. The Disney D23 app is currently available for download on the app store for iOS and Android devices and an update coming soon will add functionality to help guests navigate all the entertainment, presentations, shopping, photo opportunities, and magic that Disney has in store at this year’s event. The Disneyland app is currently available for download on the app store for iOS and Android devices. Many locations are cashless venues and will only accept a credit or debit card.

Fans will have the opportunity to explore the show floor while waiting to shop by signing up for a “boarding group” with virtual queue on the Disneyland app through the Disney D23 app and receive a notification when it’s their turn to shop. Joining the virtual queue does not grant immediate access to any experience, and there may still be a queue and waiting period at the location. The virtual queue is limited in capacity and subject to availability.

Guests will be able to access the D23 Marketplace, The Walt Disney Company Store, The Walt Disney Company Pin Store, Mickey’s of Glendale (Friday only), Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store, and Disney Studio Store Hollywood (Friday and Saturday only) only via virtual queue. Virtual queue will be required to shop at these locations starting when the event opens at 9 AM PT each day. There will be no stand-by queues available in the mornings, but stand-by opportunities may be available later in the afternoon each day if all virtual queue boarding groups have been recalled. All merchandise is subject to availability and inventory may sell out. The number of items per purchase will be limited. Traditional queuing is available at locations not utilizing virtual queue.

Save time while shopping by paying for items using the Disneyland app at select locations. Simply scan each item’s barcode to add it to a shopping bag and pay for items by selecting “Purchase.” Once a purchase is complete, show the QR code confirmation to a Cast Member at the merchandise mobile checkout station to scan before exiting the store. A digital receipt will be sent to the email address linked to the Disneyland app, and all eligible discounts will be automatically applied. The merchandise mobile checkout service is available in addition to traditional checkout services.

About D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event Presented by Visa
D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa is a one-of-a-kind, multi-day fan experience showcasing the very best in creative storytelling and innovation from across the worlds of Disney. D23 in 2024 has been reimagined to be more expansive and more immersive than ever before, with three packed days of showcases with stars and storytellers, sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes moments, thrilling performances, shopping, surprises, and more. For the latest news on D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, visit ultimatefanevent.d23.com. Presentations, talent, and schedules are subject to change. Join the D23 conversation online by following DisneyD23 on X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, and use the hashtag #D23.

Disney Announces Programming and Show Floor Lineup for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event

11 July 2024 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Spectacular offerings at the Anaheim Convention Center from across the worlds of Disney, including talent and artist meet and greets, immersive experiences, behind-the-scenes looks at new and cherished stories, and rarely seen artifacts.

With less than one month to go to the highly anticipated D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa^®, Disney today revealed details about what fans will be able to experience at the Anaheim Convention Center during this sold-out event, which will include an outstanding lineup of over 230 panels and presentations, show floor offerings, and Talent Central interactions. This announcement builds upon plans previously shared about this year’s D23 gathering, which is set to be bigger and better than ever before.

“We are thrilled for fans of all ages to join us in Anaheim next month for what will truly be the ultimate Disney fan experience,” said Michael Vargo, head of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club. “This year, D23 has been reimagined to showcase even more of what they love from across the worlds of Disney. Guests will enjoy the incredible programming and show floor offerings we have in store at the Anaheim Convention Center, where our exceptional storytelling and experiences will come to life through spectacular entertainment with many of the creative masterminds behind the magic.”

Over 55 panels and presentations across five stages are coming to the multi-day fan experience, showcasing the very best in creative storytelling and innovation from across The Walt Disney Company. Disney’s award-winning storytelling engines, along with the Walt Disney Archives and Disney Experiences, have carefully curated an expansive lineup of extraordinary panels and presentations featuring behind-the-scenes access, rarely seen treasures, first-look showcases, and highly anticipated reunions. And fan-favorite presentations including D23 Mousequerade: The Ultimate Disney Costume Contest, Disney Princess – The Concert, Disney Character Voices: Inside the Studio, and more will once again return to the Anaheim Convention Center.

This year’s show floor is the largest in the event’s history and provides even more ways for fans to interact with beloved brands, stories, and talent, including immersive pavilions from Disney Experiences, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, Disney+, Hulu, Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm, National Geographic, and more. There’s something for everyone with incredibly immersive experiences for all fans. And, for the first time, Avatar will have a full pavilion, ESPN and ABC News will have a presence on the show floor, while Lucasfilm’s groundbreaking ILM Stagecraft^ä technology will make its D23 debut for fans to interact with. The Walt Disney Archives has curated its biggest exhibition in history with “A Great Big Beautiful Car Show.” Talent Central will once again offer guests the opportunity to meet many of the extraordinary stars and creative visionaries behind popular films and series, including Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Descendants: The Rise of Red, The Simpsons, Raven’s Home, and more.

For the first time, D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will expand beyond the Anaheim Convention Center for the largest footprint in event history, with events and programming throughout the city of Anaheim, including the first ever D23 Day at Disneyland Resort on August 8, three nights of larger-than-life evening showcases at the Honda Center on August 9, 10, and 11, and D23 Day at Angel Stadium on August 4. Announced earlier this week, to celebrate the fans who are at the heart of the magic, Disney launched a company-wide sweepstakes including 23 spectacular offerings. D23: The Ultimate Disney Sweepstakes – FANtastic Prizes features an impressive lineup of exclusive prizes and engaging experiences that only Disney can deliver. The full list of prizes can be found on fantasticprizes.d23.com.

PROGRAMMING RESERVATION DETAILS

The Reservation Random Selection Process (“Reservation RSP”) for Anaheim Convention Center event stages, Talent Central, and most show floor experiences will open on Monday, July 15 at 12 p.m. PT, and run through Friday, July 19 at 12 p.m. PT. Reservations can be made on ultimatefanevent.reservations.d23.com. Reservations are not guaranteed and will be randomly distributed based on preferences and availability. For guests who are not assigned reservations for their preferences, standby queues will be available for most Anaheim Convention Center panels and experiences. There are no reservations for the evening shows at the Honda Center; the Honda Center requires a separate ticket for entry. For additional details around the reservation system, visit d23.com/ultimate-disney-fan-event/2024-reservations/. Below is a selection of opportunities coming to D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. Additional details around the reservation system and information on the full lineup of offerings can be found on ultimatefanevent.d23.com.

ONE-OF-A-KIND STAGE PROGRAMMING

30 Years of Toy Story
Celebrate 30 Years of Toy Story with filmmakers and Pixar Legends as they reflect on the making of the groundbreaking classic nearly 30 years ago and share never-before-heard anecdotes about how the historic film came to be.

Exploring New Parts of the Mind: Behind the Design of Inside Out 2 + a Dreamy Surprise!
Join Inside Out 2 production designer Jason Deamer as he gives an in-depth look at designing the new emotions joining Headquarters as Riley enters teenagehood. And stick around for a special dreamy sneak peek of an upcoming Pixar series!

Jolly Holiday: A D23 Musical Celebration of Richard M. Sherman
From Mary Poppins to Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room, a heartwarming and joyous musical tribute to our beloved Disney songwriting legend Richard M. Sherman—with unbelievable performances and delightful surprise appearances by some of the people who knew and admired him best.

Marvel Animation Sneak Peek
See what’s coming next to Disney+ from Marvel Animation, with special guests and first looks at hotly anticipated series including Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, Eyes of Wakanda, future seasons of What If…?, X-Men ’97, and more!

MARVEL COMICS: Celebrating 50 Years of Wolverine
Look back at 50 years of Wolverine with Marvel Editor-in-Chief C.B. Cebulski and writer Jason Aaron as they dive into the legacy of Marvel’s most popular mutant (and what’s next!). PLUS: an exclusive giveaway while supplies last, and a sneak peek at what’s in store for Marvel’s 85th anniversary!

Disney Princess – The Concert
Be our guest for a magical evening celebrating the music of Disney Princesses, heroes, and (yes!) villains, performed by Disney on Broadway and animation stars, as Disney Princess – The Concert returns to D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event.

From Book to Screen: How Bestselling Novels Become Hit TV Series and Films
Join creators/producers from Hulu’s The Handmaid’s Tale, the Disney Original Movie Out of My Mind, the hit anthology series Goosebumps, and FX’s Shōgun, as they discuss their creative processes and share how their teams and artists bring each story to life.

The Animation Greats + Cast and Creator Sessions featuring Bob’s Burgers, Futurama, and The Simpsons Presented by Hulu Animayhem & 20th Television Animation
Four of the most influential creators in the world of animation—Matt Groening (The Simpsons, Futurama), Seth MacFarlane (Family Guy, American Dad!), Mike Judge (King of the Hill), and Loren Bouchard (Bob’s Burgers, The Great North)—come together for a historic and extraordinary conversation you won’t want to miss. Then, the voice talent and creative teams behind Bob’s Burgers, Futurama, and The Simpsons take the stage to entertain with clips, conversation, and fan Q&A. Whether you’re a longtime fan or an aspiring animator, this is a must-see panel for all!

D23 Mousequerade: The Ultimate Disney Costume Contest
Join host Nina West and a panel of celebrity judges to see what happens when the worlds of fandom and fashion collide with the worlds of Disney in a dazzling array of cosplay creations at The Ultimate Disney Costume Contest!

Behind the Summer Shenanigans with the Phineas and Ferb Creators
Join Dan Povenmire and Jeff “Swampy” Marsh, the masterminds behind the beloved animated show Phineas and Ferb as they look back at the creation and legacy of this pop culture phenomenon. Hear behind-the-scenes stories and get ready to laugh!

Disney Character Voices: Inside the Studio
Take a trip behind the scenes with Disney Character Voices and join us in the studio for live recording sessions with your favorite Disney characters! (Who knows, you may even get the chance to voice a character yourself!)

Making A Goofy Movie: The Road to Lake Destiny
The creatives behind the A Goofy Movie phenomenon reunite, reminisce, and share clips from a new documentary about the incredible origin story of this beloved cult classic.

Charles Phoenix’s Big Retro Disneyland Slide Show
A pop culture time travel tour to the early days of Disneyland, from the backstories and glories of the classic and long-gone attractions of Main Street U.S.A., Adventureland, Fantasyland, Frontierland, the original Tomorrowland, and the all-new Tomorrowland in 1967.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians
Join the cast and creative team of the Disney+ Original series for a conversation about their epic first season journey and what they’re looking forward to as they embark on their next adventure—season two!

Stay Tuned: You’re Watching Disney Channel
Join beloved Disney Channel stars on the Walt Disney Archives Stage for a look at some of the iconic series and movies that have created generations of fans. Stay tuned for laughs, fun, and moments you won’t want to miss!

Grey’s Anatomy: 20th Celebration
Celebrate the cultural phenomenon that is Grey’s Anatomy, the longest running primetime medical drama in TV history. From gripping surgical procedures to unforgettable characters that leave viewers feeling all the feels, join the staff of Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital as they reflect on 20 seasons of storytelling.

Abbott Elementary: Class is in Session!
Step into the world of Abbott Elementary as we explore the charm, wit, and comedic brilliance that defines this award-winning workplace sitcom, set in the halls of a Philadelphia public school. The all-star ensemble cast will break down their portrayals of the relatable struggles faced by educators and dissect what makes Abbott Elementary a standout in the world of television.

Donald Duck’s 90^th Quacktacular
We’re celebrating 90 years of Donald Duck with special screenings, never-before-seen art from the Walt Disney Animation Research Library, the Disney Animation artists who bring him to life, and even the voice of the duck himself!

Big City Greens the Movie: Spacecation Screening
Blast off for a hilarious outer-space adventure with a screening of the animated comedy Big City Greens the Movie: Spacecation, introduced by the talented creative team, including creators and executive producers Chris and Shane Houghton.

Once Upon a Costume: Fashion and Design in Disney Animation Films
Disney Animation costume designers Lorelay Bové, Brittney Lee, and Griselda Sastrawinata-Lemay join with the Walt Disney Animation Research Library to show how historical and contemporary fashion design has inspired some of the most iconic costumes in animated films and even reveal a few designs that didn’t make the cut.

Restoring Disney Animation Classics
Director of Restoration Kevin Schaeffer and Disney Animation artists Eric Goldberg and Michael Giamo will delve into the history of Disney’s preservation program, showcase before-and-after clips, and share how classic films are brought back to life.

Bringing the Worlds of Disney Animation to Life in Disney Parks
Team members from Walt Disney Imagineering and Walt Disney Animation Studios discuss bringing the worlds of Disney Animation to life in Disney Parks around the world, including such projects as World of Frozen (Hong Kong Disneyland), Zootopia (Shanghai Disneyland), Fantasy Springs (Tokyo DisneySea), and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (Magic Kingdom and Disneyland).

Dream Chasing: Four Decades with Walt Disney Imagineering
Join Leslie Iwerks, Bob Weis, and Wendy Lefkon for an intimate conversation spanning four decades of creating Imagineering projects from Anaheim to Paris, and Tokyo to Shanghai. Audiences will be inspired to believe any dream worth doing is worth chasing.

Disney Legends in Conversation
Listen in as members from the newest class of Disney Legends partake in an enlightening conversation about their storied careers.

The Muppets 70: A Glamorous Miss Piggy Retrospective
Join Walt Disney Archives Director Becky Cline and The Muppets Producer Dani Iglesias for a fabulous look back on the past 70 years of the Muppets, but mostly Miss Piggy! We will dive into the vaults to uncover nostalgic artifacts along with how we preserve this collection today!

National Geographic’s A Real Bug’s Life LIVE
Join insect experts and enthusiasts for a live show-and-tell of insects featured in National Geographic’s hit Disney+ series A Real Bug’s Life, narrated by Awkwafina, with its second season coming in early 2025.

Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed – The Return of a Beloved Classic
Wield the paintbrush once more in Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed out this fall! Join Disney Games, Epic Mickey Creative Director Warren Spector, and more special guests, for a conversation that delves into how this beloved classic adventure came to life.

National Geographic Investigates
Listen to Emmy^® Award-nominated investigative reporter Mariana van Zeller discuss her hit series Trafficked and subjects and experts from the Stanford Prison Experiment and Cult Massacre: One Day in Jonestown ruminate on the popularity of true crime investigations and the art of balancing the stories with the subjects and the situations they lived or live in.

The reimagined Spotlight Stage will delight guests on the show floor with exclusive programming featuring content from National Geographic, Beauty and the Beast on Broadway, Disney on the Yard, Lorcana, Disney Global Ambassadors, and more. Additional programming includes surprise talent appearances as well as a musical performance from the award-winning pop-punk band Simple Plan.

Throughout the show floor, guests will be delighted by surprise entertainment experiences, including pianists, improv, balloon artists, and more. For the full list of panels and presentations coming to D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, visit ultimatefanevent.d23.com.

INTERACTIVE SHOW FLOOR EXPERIENCES

Imagineering: Behind the Dreams, Disney Experiences
Imagineering: Behind the Dreams is a one-of-a-kind pavilion that gives our biggest fans and fans-to-come unprecedented access to Imagineering’s passionate and talented team of artists, engineers, and craftspeople. Through design models, interactive demos, live prototypes, and exclusive presentations, guests will get a first-hand view of the innovative and immersive storytelling that will fuel the growth of Disney’s parks, resorts, cruise ships, and other experiences for decades to come.

Walt Disney Archives Presents: “A Great Big Beautiful Car Show”
“A Great Big Beautiful Car Show” pays homage to vintage car shows and Americana, giving guests an up-close look at over 20 vehicles from the Archives’ collection. A “Worlds Beyond” area showcases fantastical vehicles from distant lands.

Pixar Animation Studios & Walt Disney Animation Studios Pavilion
Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios once again join forces for a must-see animation experience at D23. Artist demonstrations, filmmaker signings, fan giveaways and interactive photo opportunities make this booth one to visit over and over again.

ESPN: Showcasing College Football in the Mighty Marvel Manner!
ESPN celebrates college football and the College Football Playoff! ESPN & Marvel enter a decade of collaboration honoring college football, kicking off the season with original artwork featuring university mascots inspired by classic Marvel covers.

The Magic of Disney on Broadway
Celebrating 30 years of enchanting theater, Disney on Broadway returns to D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event with an extraordinary new experience, “The Magic of Disney on Broadway.” Guests can immerse themselves in the theatrical world with live demonstrations, an intimate look at props and costumes, and the chance to meet talented artists from stages around the globe. Watch Michael James Scott, Genie from Aladdin on Broadway, showcase his magical prowess. See John Austin bring Scar from The Lion King to life through intricate mask mechanics. Witness Collin Baja’s incredible transformation into Sven from Frozen. Enjoy these and many more magical moments daily throughout the weekend.

Lightstorm
The Avatar Pavilion will be an immersive exhibit and walk-through experience inspired by the alien beauty and unique storytelling of Avatar. Guests will discover the captivating culture of the Na’vi, explore the Bioluminescent Forest, and soar through the mountains like a banshee.

Lucasfilm Ltd.
Lucasfilm presents the magic of ILM StageCraft™, the technology used to bring to life the worlds of The Mandalorian, Ahsoka, and more. Hear from luminaries such as Doug Chiang, the creature team from Legacy Effects, and more for a look behind the scenes.

Marvel Studios’ TVA Walkthrough Experience
Fans will get to enter the Time Variance Authority through an immersive walkthrough experience and see pivotal moments recreated from the Marvel Cinematic Universe as well as what lies ahead. Just don’t step out of line… or timelines.

Disney+
Disney+ is where all of Disney’s greatest stories come home. With themed environments and surprises around every corner, fans can step into the worlds of new and favorite stories. Celebrating five years of Disney+, Subscribers and D23 Gold Members who visit the booth will also be able to receive a special gift (while supplies last). *The Great Pin Pursuit participant

The Hulu Experience
Visit The Hulu Experience for immersive activations and shareable moments featuring the Arconia from Only Murders in the Building; the iconic opening sequence of The Kardashians; and the wild world of Hulu Animayhem. *The Great Pin Pursuit participant

The National Geographic Hexadome Experience
Step into the world of National Geographic and be transported around the globe and beyond in this one-of-a-kind 360-degree immersive audio-visual experience. Also look for two National Geographic Expeditions photo ops outside the Hexadome, featuring remarkable global travel destinations. *The Great Pin Pursuit participant

Good Morning America Anchor Desk: Fan Photo Opportunity
Experience what it’s like to anchor America’s No. 1 morning TV show—ABC News’ Good Morning America! Sit behind the iconic GMA news anchor desk and pose for an exciting and memorable photo moment. *The Great Pin Pursuit participant

Abbott Elementary Presents: A.V.A. Fest
Abbott Elementary invites D23 attendees to experience A.V.A. Fest (A Very Abbott Festival) firsthand! Inspired by two fan-favorite episodes from the hit series, this carnival-themed activation showcases games, activities, exclusive giveaways, and more. *The Great Pin Pursuit participant

Freeform’s 31 Nights of Halloween
Try your luck at the Wheel of Misfortune! Spin for tricks, spin for treats… and spin to celebrate 31 Nights of Halloween on Freeform. *The Great Pin Pursuit participant

Disney Jr. Let’s Play!
Join in on the fun at the Disney Jr. play park—with scheduled character meet and greets, dance parties, photo moments, and more! *The Great Pin Pursuit participant

Disney Channel Wand ID
“You’re watching Disney Channel!” Step behind the scenes and in front of the camera to create your very own Disney Channel Wand ID. *The Great Pin Pursuit participant

Descendants: The Rise of Red
Be immersed into the world of Descendants: The Rise of Red! Explore multiple rooms inside Red’s castle with multiple photo opportunities—a Villain Kid experience like no other! *The Great Pin Pursuit participant

FX
This interactive experience features The Bear restaurant, serving up premiums inspired by FX’s The Bear; a Shōgun garden and a costume display showcasing items from the series in a fully immersive Shōgun-inspired atmosphere; and the AHS Wax House exhibit inspired by the award-winning American Horror Story franchise. *The Great Pin Pursuit participant

* The Great Pin Pursuit
The Great Pin Pursuit offers a new way to explore D23! Select activations will feature commemorative pins as part of their interactive experiences and encourage those stopping by to collect them all. Visit the Disney+ Pavilion or The Hulu Experience to collect a pin lanyard and get started!

World of Disney: The Product Experience
The expansive, reimagined, and must-visit shopping destination will also be home to interactive experiences for guests to enjoy, including:

• Star Wars Darkade: Test your skills at the first-ever Star Wars villains-themed arcade while checking out new Star Wars products.

• Marvel Block Party: Step onto this Marvel-inspired New York City street to snap a few photos and experience a range of Marvel lifestyle products for every fan.

• Disney Princess Create Your World featuring LEGO: Snap a photo alongside LEGO^® builds of beloved Disney Princess dresses and participate in an interactive LEGO mural.

• Pixar Putt: Play the pop-up mini-golf sensation inspired by the stories, characters, and icons from some of Pixar’s most beloved films.

• Mickey & Friends: A festival-inspired space that features a live art installation, a DJ, and an engaging photo moment.

• Disney Publishing featuring Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Co.: Disney tells stories that foster a love of reading, inspire natural curiosity, and excite families and fans. Attendees can also enjoy a brand-new sip-and-shop experience featuring the latest blend from Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Co.!

• Stop by the Disney Store booth to take photos in front of a plush mountain, and try your hand at picking the cuddliest plush from one of three claw machines.

• Live at World of Disney: The Product Experience: Meet authors and artists, get products and books signed, and participate in pin trading during scheduled sessions throughout the weekend.

Show Floor Sponsors and Licensees
More booths than ever before from some fan-favorite companies will also have activations across the show floor, including: RSVLTS’ “Workshop of Wonders” created by Disney Legend Tony Baxter and Michael and Jimmy Mulligan; a one-of-a-kind photo op from Lionel Trains featuring a surprise making its way from back-of-house at Disneyland Resort; the opportunity to be among the first to play Disney Epic Mickey: Rebrushed from THQ; a Disney Villains tunnel from Pandora; The Oasis at D23 connected by AT&T; Bullseye’s Playshop from Target, and much, much more. For more information on sponsors and licensees that will have booths at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, visit ultimatefanevent.d23.com/partners.

For the full lineup of show floor pavilions that fans can experience at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, visit ultimatefanevent.d23.com.

TALENT CENTRAL

Some of the most prominent names from across the worlds of Disney will be onsite to meet with guests at Talent Central that will be open each day on the show floor of the Anaheim Convention Center. Various Disney artists—including incoming Disney Legend Mark Henn; Disney Animation director Ron Clements; Pixar’s Chief Creative Officer, Pete Docter; Marvel Comics’ creators; the voice of Donald Duck, Tony Anselmo; and current and former Imagineers—will be available to sign complimentary exclusive lithographs, fine-art prints, posters, and other art related to their projects. Stars from award-winning series and shows will be at the event to meet fans, including Bertie Gregory and Mariana van Zeller from National Geographic, as well as the stars of ZOMBIES 4: Dawn of the Vampires, Descendants: The Rise of Red, Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Bob’s Burgers, Futurama, The Simpsons, Raven’s Home, and Wizards Beyond Waverly Place.

Readers of all ages will also have the opportunity to have their books signed by authors including incoming Disney Legend Martha Blanding; Bret Iwan, the official voice of Mickey Mouse; Becky Cline, director of the Walt Disney Archives; Ashley Eckstein, voice of Ahsoka Tano in the animated television series Star Wars: The Clone Wars; and Bob Weis, former president of Walt Disney Imagineering.

Cast and talent appearing throughout programming offerings and Talent Central are subject to change. This uniquely Disney experience will offer additional discounts, exclusives, and giveaways and feature the biggest participation of sponsors and licensees, as well as brands and segments from across The Walt Disney Company. Shoppers will have a treasure trove of options, more than ever before, as the shopping footprint has also been expanded. Additional details around shopping and merchandise will be released at a later date.

Walt Disney’s Grumman Gulfstream I Airplane Makes its West Coast Return for D23 Expo 2022

1 September 2022 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Walt Disney’s Grumman Gulfstream I Airplane Makes its West Coast Return for D23 Expo 2022 The historic aircraft will be on display at the Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, California, from September 9 through 11 in an all-new exhibit from D23, the Walt Disney Archives, and D23 Expo Platinum Sponsor Amazon.

Walt Disney’s Grumman Gulfstream I plane is making a cross-country journey to Anaheim, California, where it will be on display for fans attending the sold-out D23 Expo 2022 presented by Visa from September 9 through 11. D23 and the Walt Disney Archives, along with D23 Expo Platinum sponsor Amazon, have restored the plane’s exterior for guests to see in a specially curated exhibit in the Arena of the Anaheim Convention Center called Mickey Mouse One: Walt’s Plane presented by Amazon. The exhibit will highlight the history of the plane—also known as “The Mouse”—and showcase its significance in The Walt Disney Company’s history.

The newly repainted plane with updated wing edges and windows will be on view along with never-before-exhibited items from the aircraft’s interior, including a customized instrument panel originally located near Walt’s favorite onboard seat that allowed him to monitor flight conditions; a telephone handset that gave Walt a direct line of communication to the pilot in the cockpit; a flight bag featuring an image of Mickey Mouse sitting on the tail of the iconic plane; and more. Walt’s plane will return to the West Coast for the first time since October 8, 1992, when the plane landed on World Drive in Orlando, Florida, at Disney-MGM Studios (now Disney’s Hollywood Studios), where it resided as a part of the Studio Backlot Tour until 2014. The recent exterior repaint and finishing work, along with the cross-country move of the aircraft, was made possible thanks to collaboration and support from Walt Disney Imagineering.

Walt's plane D23 Expo 2022

In 1963, Walt acquired the iconic Gulfstream that would come to be known as “The Mouse.” The interior of the plane, initially designed with creative input from Walt and his wife, Lillian, seated up to 15 passengers and included a galley kitchen, two restrooms, two couches, a desk, and nods to the mouse who started it all, including matchbooks and stationery adorned with a silhouette of Mickey Mouse. Mickey’s initials were eventually included in the tail number of the plane, too, as N234MM, in 1967. Throughout its 28 years of service to The Walt Disney Company, the plane flew 20,000 hours and transported an estimated 83,000 passengers before it was grounded.

D23 Expo will kick off Disney100, a celebration of the 100-year history of The Walt Disney Company, and in this all-new exhibit, guests will be invited to “take to the skies” and learn about the role this iconic plane has played throughout the company’s history:

In 1963, Walt, members of his family, and company executives took off on a demonstration Gulfstream aircraft to explore potential locations, including Central Florida, for a proposed development often referred to as “Project X.” After Walt received his own Gulfstream in early 1964, he made several trips to Florida that ultimately laid the foundation to bring the magic of Walt Disney World to life.
Walt’s plane flew a total of 277,282 miles back and forth between Burbank and New York to oversee preparations before and during the 1964–1965 New York World’s Fair, an event that brought iconic attractions such as “it’s a small world” to an East Coast audience and, later, to Disneyland.
The plane also took Disneyland to new heights as Walt found inspiration for the look of the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction as he flew over the El Moro fortress in San Juan, Puerto Rico, while conducting research for the now fan favorite.
“The Mouse” has a star-studded past, having been used for promotional tours for Disneyland as well as for classic movies such as The Jungle Book (1967), as well as making appearances in The Walt Disney Studios films The Computer Wore Tennis Shoes (1969) and Now You See Him, Now You Don’t (1972), both of which starred Disney Legend Kurt Russell. The aircraft has also transported notable guests including Disney Legends Julie Andrews and Annette Funicello, as well as former U.S. Presidents Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan.
Painted blue and white in 1985, Walt’s plane embarked on goodwill tours and character visits to children’s hospitals, adding to the company’s history of giving back to the community.

Disney fans attending D23 Expo are invited to shop, browse and play at Amazon’s immersive space on the showroom floor with in-person peeks at custom merchandise related Mickey Mouse One: Walt’s Plane.

D23 Expo is sold out. Select presentations will be streamed for guests at D23 Expo [LIVE]. For more information, visit D23Expo.com.

D23 Expo 2022 Disney Parks Experiences and Products Presentations

28 July 2022 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

More news from the D23 Expo 2022 presented by Visa, this time all about the Disney Parks, Experiences and Products presentations! This is perhaps the most anticipated set of sessions each D23 Expo due to the parks announcements. However there are some really fun Imagineering presentations as well that you won’t want to miss. Here is the official scoop from D23 directly:

The D23 Expo is returning for a spectacular in-person event in Anaheim with special surprises for fans of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products. With exciting pavilions, captivating panel presentations and special retail experiences, fans can explore and be the first to learn about never-before-seen details of new themed lands, attractions, shows and more.

The Disney Parks and Experiences Wonderful World of Dreams pavilion invites attendees to step into the new stories, attractions and adventures Disney Imagineers are bringing to life around the globe. Fans will discover behind-the-scenes glimpses of the Tiana’s Bayou Adventure attraction coming to Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, the transformation of EPCOT, new Frozen-themed experiences, Disney Cruise Line, live entertainment and more.

Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro will take to the Hall D23 stage Sunday, September 11, at 10:30 a.m. for A Boundless Future: Disney Parks Experiences and Products to share a look at new details of highly anticipated projects in development around the world. The fan-favorite presentation is sure to feature see-it-here-first moments and surprises.

D23 Expo is the place for fans to shop for new and limited-edition merchandise from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars and National Geographic, plus items celebrating Disney100 and D23 Expo. Attendees can visit the D23 Expo Marketplace for a new, immersive retail experience with products from shopDisney.com and Disney Parks. The Walt Disney Imagineering Mickey’s of Glendale shop is returning to D23 Expo this year, this time with three unique retail spaces tailored to different categories and experiences: Mickey’s of Glendale Main Store, Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store and D23 Expo Shop x Mickey’s of Glendale.

Guests at D23 Expo will get first access to DisneyMe, an all-new digital avatar in the Play Disney Parks app. This experience empowers guests to express their Disney style by creating their own unique DisneyMe. To celebrate the launch of DisneyMe as part of Disney Uncharted Adventure on the Disney Wish, guests at D23 Expo will be invited on a quest that can only be completed at the Expo. Attendees will uncover specially designed Disney Wish and D23 Expo digital clothing and accessories for their DisneyMe around the show floor.

Starting in September, D23 Expo guests will need to download the latest Play Disney Parks app to be ready to create their DisneyMe and join the DisneyMe D23 Expo Quest during the convention.

Throughout the weekend, fans can dive deeper into the world of Disney through several special panel presentations:

Inside Look at the Society of Explorers and Adventurers
Friday, Sept. 9, 10:30 a.m., Backlot Stage
An inside look at the continuing development of the Society of Explorers and Adventurers — what it means in the Disney parks and how these stories continue to grow. Disney Imagineers are joined by Julie Kagawa to talk about her first two books in a series of novels that tie into the lore of S.E.A.

A Peek Behind the Curtain at the Walt Disney Imagineering Illusions and Special Effects Development Lab
Saturday, September 10, 10 a.m., Walt Disney Archives Stage
Learn about the legacy of Walt Disney Imagineering’s Illusions and Special Effects Development Lab, including the work created by Yale Gracey for the Haunted Mansion and other early projects, plus a behind-the-curtain look at the present-day magical process that is so unique to Imagineering.

Uncovering Treasures from the Marty Sklar Collection
Saturday, September 10, 12 p.m., Walt Disney Archives Stage
Join Walt Disney Imagineering Ambassador Bob Weis and Leah and Leslie Sklar, the wife and daughter of the late Disney Legend and Imagineer Marty Sklar, as they discuss some of the treasures they’ve discovered while going through Marty’s collection from his more than 50 years with Walt Disney Imagineering.

Dreaming, Designing and Bringing to Life the Disney Wish
Saturday, September 10, 4 p.m., Backlot Stage
Disney Imagineers fresh off the launch of the newest ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet — the Disney Wish — talk about their experiences bringing this ship to life. From the wondrously themed spaces and imaginative kids clubs to the first-ever Disney attraction at sea, the ship brings to life fantastical stories you know and love like never before.

Walt Disney Imagineering: 70 Years of Making the Impossible, Possible
Sunday, September 11, 1 p.m., Premiere Stage
For seven decades, the magic-makers at Walt Disney Imagineering have blended limitless imagination with cutting-edge technology to create groundbreaking experiences that bring together families and friends to create lifelong memories. Join Imagineers past and present as they discuss the core elements of storytelling and innovation that bring dreams to life for guests from all around the world.

Disney Parks Through the Decades: A Disney Ambassador Perspective
Sunday, September 11, 4 p.m., Walt Disney Archives Stage
Join us for a conversation with Disney Ambassadors spanning the decades, including 1966 Disney Ambassador, Connie Lane, and 1971 Walt Disney World Ambassador, Debby Dane Browne. From representing Walt Disney at Disneyland in the 1960s, to opening Walt Disney World: experience the history of Disney Parks like never before.

The World of Duffy & Friends Revealed
Sunday, September 11, 4:15 p.m., Hyperion Stage
Disney Imagineers discuss the origin and continuing popularity of Duffy & Friends, including the newest friend who has become a global phenomenon — LinaBell!

D23 Expo is sold out. Select presentations will be streamed for guests at D23 Expo Live! For more information, visit D23Expo.com.

Personally, I cannot wait for the Duffy and Friends panel! I have quite a few of the friends at home and will love learning more about them in person!

Disney Book Review: A Portrait of Walt Disney World: 50 Years of the Most Magical Place On Earth

27 October 2021 by Scott Otis Leave a Comment

A Portrait of Walt Disney World: 50 Years of the Most Magical Place On Earth

By Kevin Kern, Tim O’Day & Steven Vagnini

“The boys and girls of the world regard a visit to Walt Disney World … as a must in their lives. It’s a magnet, it’s a mecca for the dreams of youth and for the inspiration of mature people.” Herb Ryman, Disney Legend, Imagineer and artist

When famed Disney artist and then-retired Imagineer Herb Ryman spoke these profound words in 1982, just after the opening of the brand new masterpiece EPCOT Center, little did he know just how prophetic he was, with Walt Disney World since growing to gargantuan proportions, with four full-fledged theme parks, two epic water parks, a massive shopping and dining district, more than two dozen themed hotels, a campground, and more leisure and recreational activities than one can possibly imagine.

It was right around this time, with the shiny futuristic Spaceship Earth beckoning me, that this Orange County California boy of 12, then fully devoted to the only thing he possibly knew or cared about, Disneyland, became fully aware of the wonders of Walt Disney World, and set his mind on getting his family, some way, somehow, to take a summer family vacation to the Most Magical Place on Earth. I finally got that trip in May and June of 1984, and my life changed forevermore, and I knew I’d spend the rest of my life here, in the other Orange County, in the shadows of the very Cinderella Castle that Herb Ryman so beautifully designed years before.

For its 25th Anniversary in 1996, noted Disney historian and author Jeff Kurtti graced the world with his amazing quintessential history of Walt Disney World up to that point, Since the World Began: Walt Disney World – The First 25 Years, and it has held a prominent place on the center bookshelf of my vast Disney book collection, and I’ve turned to that book time and time again in my never ending research of Walt Disney World.

As the 50th Anniversary was growing closer, I was hoping the Company would once again turn to Jeff to write a Part Two, the 2nd 25 Years of Walt Disney World. Alas, that did not happen. But instead, we Disney fans were in for a treat! Not one, not two, but THREE!! fully qualified Disney historians were tapped to author the companion book of Disney World’s Golden Anniversary. When I saw the names attached to this project, I knew it was in the right hands.

Kevin Kern is a longtime Walt Disney Archivist and an accomplished Disney historian and writer; Tim O’Day is one of the foremost experts on Disney history and an amazing idea man who has worked on countless Disney special events; and my dear friend Steven Vagnini has been a constant champion of Disney heritage and history in his vast career with the Disney Archives, the official Disney fan club D23 and his current role in Walt Disney Imagineering.

And boy, oh boy… they did not disappoint.

This enormous 320-page volume is chock full of stories, nuggets, facts, quotes, photographs, captions, drawings, detailed renderings and top secret blueprints, current and historical, of all things Walt Disney World. Rather than the usual chronological format, the authors chose to organize the proceedings almost by using the famous Disneyland plaque “Here You Leave Today and Enter the World of Yesterday, Tomorrow and Fantasy” as their guide.

Before they get into that, though, the authors begin the book with a look at Disney’s history with the State of Florida, and the inner workings of the Company that led them to build their Resort destination there, as well as the purchase of the land tracts, and the massive construction project that turned the vast square mileage of swampland into The Most Magical Place on Earth. They detail the master plans of Project Florida, including the idea of EPCOT, the progress city of the future, that was initially planned for this land. There are extensive amounts of rare and never-before-seen photographs of the early planning stages and construction, with Walt surveying the Florida landscape just before his untimely passing in December 1966.

This section is followed by three short essays from some very important people, remembering their role in all of this, including: Dick Nunis, the former Chairman of Walt Disney Attractions and Disney Legend looking back at the vast job the Company had ahead of them to build and open this stupendous project; Debby Dane Browne, Walt Disney World’s first Ambassador, fondly recalling her early days at the Preview Center, becoming the first Ambassador and her memories of the Grand Opening of the Magic Kingdom and all of Walt Disney World; and Roy Patrick Disney, the grandson of Roy O. Disney, telling stories of his grandfather, who selflessly delayed his own retirement, literally spending the rest of his life to foresee and lead the Company to opening Walt’s greatest legacy, dying mere weeks after its Grand Opening.

This is where the meat and potatoes of the book begins, separating all the different Park areas, lands, attractions, shows and other bits of all of Walt Disney World into the four categories of Nostalgia (An Idealized Yesteryear), Fantasy (The Art of Make Believe), Discovery (Adventure and Exploration) and Tomorrow (A Step into the Future).

Nostalgia includes examinations of such things as Main Street U.S.A., Liberty Square, Frontierland, Hollywood Boulevard and the Grand Floridian Resort. The Fantasy chapter is where you’ll find Fantasyland (of course), Pandora: The World of Avatar, Galaxy’s Edge and Blizzard Beach.

Adventureland, Harambe, The Living Seas, major portions of World Showcase, Wilderness Lodge and much more can be found in the Discovery section. The pages of Tomorrow are where you’ll find stories on Tomorrowland, Spaceship Earth, Mission: SPACE, Contemporary Resort, and such unique concepts as transportation, solar energy, the utilidors and much more.

This is such a fun way to categorize all the distinctive individual ideas that make up the entire 50 year history of Walt Disney World, all with comprehensive quotes, captions and researched and notated footnotes (there are separate bibliographic and endnotes listings for the text, the captions and the quotes found throughout the chapters).

I very much enjoyed reading this incredible historical volume, and inspecting all the amazing images found within, examining the details of things I thought I knew so well. I recommend you take a closer look at this book by clicking the image below, or stopping by your local independent bookseller to pick up your own personal copy!

What a way to celebrate 50 years of the Most Magical Place on Earth! Thank you, Kevin, Tim and Steven! Also thank you to Disney Publishing for providing us this book for review. As always, our thoughts and opinions are our own.

There are quite a few other books that Disney has released for the Walt Disney World 50th celebration. I’ll link them here: (these are Amazon affiliate links, with a very small portion of the purchase going back to the site – we appreciate your support!)

You can see Scott’s previous reviews here, and we also discuss and review A Portrait of Walt Disney World and others on one of our Up the Waterfall weekly LIVE shows (we have quite a few book discussions there so check them out and subscribe for more!):

https://youtu.be/5KqFR2AdXHA

New Disney Nighttime Spectaculars and More for Walt Disney World’s 50th

22 June 2021 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

VERY exciting news out of Walt Disney World this morning! Lots of nighttime spectaculars and other Walt Disney World 50th Celebration news! Here’s the official scoop from Disney:

Beginning Oct. 1, “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” honors the 50^th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort, and, wow, do we have some great new details to share with you about this incredible 18-month event.

A new nighttime spectacular, “Disney Enchantment,” will help kick off the 50^th anniversary festivities when it debuts Oct. 1 at Magic Kingdom Park. Created to launch with “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” this evening extravaganza will take Guests on a journey filled with adventure, wonder and empowerment. Inspiring everyone to believe in magic, “Disney Enchantment” will feature music, enhanced lighting, stunning fireworks and, for the first time, immersive projection effects that extend from Cinderella Castle down Main Street, U.S.A.

Joining “Disney Enchantment” on Oct. 1 will be “Harmonious” at EPCOT, one of the largest nighttime spectaculars ever created for a Disney park. This new show will bring the globe together at World Showcase Lagoon in a celebration of Disney music that inspires people worldwide. It’s a grand, powerful tribute to the stories and songs that unite us, embracing new technical magic that incorporates pyrotechnics, choreographed moving fountains, lighting and media in new ways. “Harmonious” will invite Guests to travel the globe through new interpretations of classic Disney songs as you’ve never heard them before, reimagined in more than a dozen languages by a diverse group of 240 artists from around the world.

There’s also new daytime entertainment stirring at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Check out this artist rendering of “Disney KiteTails,” which will come alive several times daily at the Discovery River Amphitheater beginning Oct. 1. Performers will fly windcatchers and kites of all shapes and sizes, while out on the water elaborate three-dimensional kites – some stretching to 30 feet long – will depict Disney animal friends, including Simba, Zazu, Baloo and King Louie. These colorful creations will dance through the sky to the beat of favorite Disney songs in an uplifting, vibrant experience for the whole family.

Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will be the hosts for “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” and they’ll be decked out in sparkling new EARidescent fashions for the 50^th anniversary. As you can see in the photo above, their best pals want to get in on the shimmer, too, as Donald Duck and Daisy Duck, Goofy and Pluto, and Chip ‘n’ Dale will be sporting their own custom-made EARidescent looks beginning Oct. 1. Guests will get a chance to see them when they travel through Magic Kingdom Park several times daily in the new “Mickey’s Celebration Cavalcade.”

These eight friends will also be featured in special golden character sculptures debuting Oct. 1 at Magic Kingdom; in this artist rendering, you can see Mickey and Minnie shining in the sunlight near Cinderella Castle. There will be 50 characters total in this series of sculptures that will be displayed across all four theme parks. We’ll soon reveal more of the “Disney Fab 50” as excitement builds for the big day, as well as the surprising ways Guests will be able to interact with these beautiful sculptures as part of the 50^th anniversary celebration.

This fall, Guests can bring home “Walt Disney World: A Portrait of the First Half Century,” a beautiful new coffee table book from Disney Editions. You can see the cover art above for this insider’s look at the history and evolution of Walt Disney World, written by Kevin Kern, Tim O’Day and Steven Vagnini. The book will be available for purchase beginning Sept. 28 at Walt Disney World, shopDisney.com and wherever books are sold. We can’t wait to add this to our collection!

“The World’s Most Magical Celebration” will also see the grand opening of Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure at EPCOT, icons at each of the four parks transforming into Beacons of Magic at night*, EARidescent décor all across the resort, plus much more. Our Walt Disney World cast members – who will be wearing new EARidescent nametags designed especially for this occasion – are looking forward to sharing all this magic with Guests, as they are the heart of this momentous event. Stay tuned as we continue to share more details about the 50^th anniversary of Walt Disney World in the weeks and months to come as we get ready for the festivities to begin!

Holiday Magic at the Disney Parks Book Review – Up the Waterfall

14 October 2020 by Suzannah Otis Leave a Comment

Everyone loves Disney books, and Scott has made no secret that it is his greatest passion. I recently bought him a couple of new releases that came out, and we were given a new holiday book to review – Holiday Magic at the Disney Parks. This book looked so amazing that I thought it deserved its own episode to share the fun and spread the word of this great new title. While we certainly could’ve devoted an entire hour to this one book (it’s THAT chock-full of Disney holiday nuggets), we added a few more recent titles, like the Disney Monorail book and Disney Maps of favorite movies.

As promised, here is a rundown of the books we discussed. The links are affiliate links, which means no extra cost to you, but we will get a very small commission amount, which helps offset the costs to run Zannaland and Up the Waterfall. We appreciate your help and consideration. Just click on the book title or cover image to go to the link to purchase.

Mickey Mouse: From Walt to the World, by Andreas Dejas:

A companion book to a recent exhibition at the phenomenal Walt Disney Family Museum at the Presidio in San Francisco, California, this book details the global phenomenon of the Walt Disney Original, Mickey Mouse, and his contributions to the world, including black and white and color cartoons and films, merchandise, comic books, and even modern art. This book and all the other companion books for all the previous retrospective exhibitions at this first-rate museum are excellent keepsakes showcasing amazing displays. Very highly recommended.

The Disney Monorail: Imagineering a Highway in the Sky, by Jeff Kurtti, Vanessa Hunt, et al.:

This book is a fantastic must-have addition to anyone’s Disney book collection. It is filled with not only the history of the monorail itself, but also how Walt Disney became interested in transportation, futurism, and the desire to bring monorails to the parks. Here are some photos from the book (not high-quality scans, just to give you an idea of what lies in store!).

Monorails of Disneyland and Walt Disney World list

Disney Monorail concept art panorama — The Disney Monorails book inside jacket – as mentioned on the show! – sorry for the quality, but you get the idea.

Disney Maps: A Magical Atlas of the Movies We Know and Love, by Disney Book Group:

This is a fun book that families will love. I know Gio would love getting his hands on this book to explore the various lands we know and love from Disney animated movies. It provides a character list and fun facts about each film too. Here is an example of the Ratatouille pages:

Entertaining with Disney: Exceptional Events From Mickey Mouse to Moana! by Amy Croushorn:

This book is like Pinterest in book form. Entertaining with Disney is all organized by theme and has detailed instructions for creating the crafts, making the snacks, and setting the scene for your exceptional Disney events. I got this book for Scott as kind of a joke because he’s not really an entertainer in any way, but he is a completist, so he can cross this one off his list. However, *I* love it, and even if I don’t make any of these super cool themed parties, it’s really relaxing and fun to look at! Here’s the Peter Pan spread:

The Art of Disney Costuming – Heroes, Villains, and Spaces Between, by Jeff Kurtti and the Staff of the Walt Disney Archives:

This book is a companion piece to the D23 Expo Archives exhibit from the most recent Expo in 2019. There are spectacular close-ups of the many beautiful and detailed costumes displayed there, as well as backstories. There are also sections on the costumes created for Disney parks, really fascinating stuff. Here are a couple of pages from the book:

Holiday Magic at Disney Parks: by Graham Allan, Rebecca Cline, and Charlie Price:

The headliner of this episode, Holiday Magic at the Disney Parks (out October 20, available for pre-order now) is a must-have for any collection. Packed with nearly 1,900 amazing photographs, it truly is an encyclopedia of information, detailing the history of the Fall and Winter holidays at Disney parks. This includes decorations, snacks and food items, parades, spectaculars, parties, and rethemed attractions at ALL of the Disney Parks, and Disney resorts as well.

Featuring comprehensive descriptions and photos, the authors have documented the history of these holiday offerings from Disneyland’s earliest years to present day. This book is a great way to see all the holiday fun and remember the magic. We can’t say enough about this masterpiece. Here are just a few of the many, many, pages of documentation:

Disneyland holidays Tomorrowland — How amazing is this vintage Tomorrowland photo from Disneyland??

Again, these are not high-quality scans, just some photos to show you the treasures that lie inside these books. I know I can’t wait to get my hands on them myself and dig into this Disney history. We hope you enjoyed this book-filled episode. If so tell us in the comments below, leave us a review wherever you watch or listen, give us a thumbs up on Zannaland’s YouTube and Subscribe to see all our other videos. Thank you as always for watching and listening! We’d love to know if you pick up any of these titles for your Disney book collection! You can watch this week’s episode right here:

Ways to Help Laid Off Cast Members:

As we mentioned on the end of the show, it is such a devastating time for so many. As locals, and a Cast Member family, we want to spread the word as much as possible about ways to help if you can.

Cast Member Pantry Facebook group for Orlando area Cast Members

Ear for Each Other Facebook group featuring Cast Members from both coasts offering their services or talents for sale

Google Sheet with Cast Member run Small Shops and businesses

Also check out our friends Sarah and Tom Bricker’s post on ways to help, including donating to the Second Harvest Food Bank in both Orlando and Orange County, California. Thank you for reading, and thank you for helping the magic makers.

As always, we thank you for watching and listening! If you enjoyed, please share with a friend so more folks can learn about our growing podcast! Thank you!

Listen to Up the Waterfall:

You can listen anywhere you download and listen to podcasts, including:

(If there’s a podcast service where you can’t find our show, let us know and we’ll get it added there!)

Watch Up the Waterfall:

Head to our Up the Waterfall YouTube Playlist – where you can see our opening sequence and see some unique images during some episodes.

Feel free to comment below with your opinions on ANY of these movie choices, any questions or info you’d like to add, or if it’s easier, head to the Zannaland Facebook page and join the discussion there with fellow Disney Parks fans!

Zannaland and Up the Waterfall Community – Let’s Connect!

FOLLOW THE ZANNALAND FAMILY ON SOCIAL MEDIA, WATCH OUR VIDEOS, VLOGS AND PODCAST TOO:

Twitter: @zannaland, @otisney
Instagram: @zannaland, @UpTheWaterfall, @otisney
Zannaland’s facebook page, Up the Waterfall on Facebook
Zannaland on YouTube
Listen to Up the Waterfall podcast, subscribe on iTunes, or watch Up the Waterfall on YouTube

We thank you for your support and for sharing the love!