A Disney Fan’s Guide to D23
Introduction
So you're a Disney Fan. You may like the movies or a couple of the shows. Perhaps you're like me and have a full-on identity as a Disney Adult, but have you heard of the D23 Fan Expo? Have you stood in a room with thousands of people cheering at the latest announcement? Have you given Bob Iger a standing ovation or completely lost it when D'Amaro announced that nothing he would say in the next 2 hours was a Blue Sky project? If not, buckle up; we're diving into the biggest fan event of the year.
A brief explanation of D23
What exactly is D23, you ask? Well, D23 is the official name of the Walt Disney Company's fan club. Its name comes from 1923 when Walt Disney founded the company. The "D" stands for Disney, and "23" represents 1923. The most significant event for D23 is the biennial D23 Expo or fan convention that celebrates all things Disney. This massive event showcases upcoming projects from various Disney branches, including theme parks, movies, television shows, and merchandise. If you think that Disney is not a part of your world, it probably is, considering they also own Hulu, FX, National Geographic, and ESPN, all of which have a significant presence in the event. Attendees can enjoy exclusive panels, previews, and exhibitions featuring Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and more.
Plus, the BIG draw is that it also offers opportunities for fans to meet Disney celebrities, artists, and Imagineers and shop for exclusive merchandise. It's like a central hub for all this Disney and offers us a way to connect with them and its most devoted fans, offering them behind-the-scenes access to upcoming content and experiences.
Importance for Disney fans
This event is the most important event of the year for major Disney fans and travel agents like me. It tells us everything that's coming in the future. It gives a glimpse into where the company is headed and sparks the creative juices in my imagination like only Disney can, all while fostering a sense of community. I have had so many random conversations about Duffy Mickey Mouse's Bear, how to play Lorcana, or making Christmas arrangements in the parks with strangers, all because we share a common love for all that is in this world. Everyone deserves to feel a part of something, to commune with like-minded individuals who share their passions, creating friendships and memories. It's a powerful connection to even something so many call silly or childish that gives you the community your heart desires. Add on having the chance to be the first to hear significant announcements about upcoming films, TV shows, theme park attractions, and other Disney projects directly from the creators and executives, and it's a win-win. The exclusive merchandise available at D23 allows fans to own pieces of Disney history that aren't available anywhere else. Moreover, the event provides rare opportunities to meet Disney legends, voice actors, and other creatives behind the magic. It gives fans personal interactions with the people who bring their favorite characters and stories to life.
Event Details
Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty details, shall we? This year, the event was held August 9-11 in Anaheim, California. It's typically held in August or September biennially (every other year) and has a slew of events leading up to or on those dates. In 2022, there was a members-only exclusive Oogie Boogie Bash, and this year, there was a whole D23 Day at Disneyland, a shopping excursion, and an Angels game the week before the event. This year, something new was added. Instead of having only the convention center as a way to go and explore, they also had all of the main panels at the Honda Center offering bussing to get from one to the other. It makes for a long 3 days but an enjoyable 3 days. Tickets start at $297 for the 3 days and go up from there depending on your seating in the stadium. When we were able to get in the queue, even though I clicked as soon as the tickets became available, all of those seats were sold out. So, after taxes and fees, our two tickets cost us $700, which is ONLY for the event. Never mind the hotel, flights, and food; of course, we had to go to the park with park hoppers!
Also, note that it SELLS OUT EVERY YEAR! Getting in line does not guarantee a spot, and trust me, all 3 days are well worth it if you want to see everything. Lines get LONG!
Travel Planning Tips
I'm not going to go too deep into the travel planning tips; you'll have to check out my Disneyland Blog for that, but I will say this...book early. Remember, you are talking about well over 20K people attending this event that sells out. They all require a place to sleep and something to eat, so planning ahead is paramount. This is not the time to wing it. Even more so when it comes to transportation, staying where you can walk that's close by is your friend. In theory, it's a great idea to spend the night at that hotel that's just a 15-minute walk down the road, but after being in the convention center all day, trust me, you won't want to, and Ubers in California get expensive. Need help? I know a girl.
Ok, all that is well and good, but is D23 Expo worth it?
In a couple of words, a RESOUNDING YES!
I cannot express enough what it feels like when you're part of something bigger than yourself, surrounded by people who just *get* it? That's D23 for me in a nutshell. Having just wrapped up my second expo, it's like coming home to a family you never knew you had. The excitement is palpable - from the gasps during surprise announcements to screaming when a new Broadway show you've been waiting for has been announced to the collective "awws." It's not just about the sneak peeks or exclusive merch (though, let's be honest, those are pretty awesome).
It's about sharing knowing glances with strangers when someone quotes an obscure Disney line or the rush of spotting a cosplayer who absolutely nailed their character. The memories and friendships I've made are priceless. Sure, there are long lines and crowded halls, but the magic more than makes up for it. As I left this year's event, already daydreaming about the next one, I realized that D23 isn't just an expo - it's a celebration of the stories and characters that have shaped us.
