Disney’s largest annual fan event – D23 – returns next month with a bumper lineup of events and experiences. D23 will run between 9-11 August 2024 in multiple locations in and around Anaheim, including at the Anaheim Convention Center and the Honda Center.
Why are we so excited? It’s during this time that Disney often releases information about future theme park projects. Plus, the weekend brings exclusive showcases and pavilions where Disney fans can meet some of their heroes and learn more about upcoming Disney movies.
Here’s what you can expect if you’re attending D23 this year...
D23 2024: Our Top Picks
Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase
The most hotly-anticipated event at D23 will be the Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase presented by Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts. This will take place on Saturday 10th August.
This showcase will celebrate the power of Disney stories and, of course, highlight the future rides and expansions coming to Disney parks around the world. Some of the projects tipped to be featured include Beyond Big Thunder and the Animal Kingdom Dinoland revamp.
Disney Legends Awards Ceremony
Another event not to be missed during D23 is the Disney Legends Awards Ceremony on Sunday 11th August. Each year since 1987, the Walt Disney Company has awarded Imagineers and other gifted individuals Legend status for their impact on the Disney Legacy. Excitingly, Joe Rohde is among the big names being added to the Hall of Fame this year.
Imagineering: Behind the Dreams
One of the top pavilions of this year’s D23 will be Imagineering: Behind the Dreams. This experience will treat Disney fans to a behind-the-scenes look at the talented artists, engineers, and craftspeople who bring the magic to life on screen and in parks.
The pavilion will feature design models, interactive demos, live prototypes, and exclusive presentations throughout the weekend.
Bringing the Worlds of Disney Animation to Life in Disney Parks
In this pavilion, team members from Walt Disney Imagineering and Walt Disney Animation Studios will discuss how they bring the magical world of Disney to life.
Topics to be discussed include projects such 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
This is another inspirational pavilion not to be missed. Legendary Imagineers Leslie Iwerks, Bob Weis, and Wendy Lefkon will host an intimate conversation spanning four decades of Disney projects – from Anaheim to Shanghai.
And this is just the tip of the Disney iceberg; the entire weekend will be filled with fun events and fascinating talks. You can find the entire D23 schedule on the official website.
Can’t make it to D23 this year? Don’t panic – we’ll be bringing you all the most exciting news throughout the weekend. Make sure to check back with Themepark+ for the latest updates.
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