This past weekend, thousands of Disney fans gathered at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort for Destination D23: A Journey Around the Worlds of Disney presented by Lug. The event was bigger than ever, with a new location, expanded programming, and endless magical surprises.
Over Saturday and Sunday, guests enjoyed more than 25 presentations featuring Walt Disney Studios, Disney Entertainment Television, Disney Experiences, Walt Disney Imagineering, and the Walt Disney Archives. Creative visionaries, Imagineers, archivists, and Disney Legends shared news, sneak peeks, and incredible behind-the-scenes stories.
Toy Story Annoucements
One of the most anticipated panels was the Walt Disney Studios Showcase, hosted by Yvette Nicole Brown. Pixar delighted fans with three Toy Story announcements. The original film returns to theaters this September for its 30th anniversary. Buzz Lightyear will also soar again at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade this November. Finally, Pixar gave an exclusive first look at Toy Story 5, introducing Smarty Pants, voiced by Conan O’Brien. Guests even saw the movie’s opening three minutes.
Hoppers, Hexed, Zootopia 2
Pixar also previewed its comedy Hoppers, arriving in 2026. Disney Animation then revealed Hexed, a November 2026 release about a teen whose quirks may actually be magical powers. Fans also cheered updates on Zootopia 2. Patrick Warburton joins the cast as Mayor Winddancer, while Judy, Nick, and Clawhauser appeared live onstage.
Diary of a Wimpy Kid
The showcase revealed Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw for Disney+ in December 2025.
Enter the Grid
TRON fans had more to celebrate. Both TRON and TRON: Legacy are being remastered in 4K Ultra HD. Plus, original music from TRON: Ares will soon enhance TRON attractions at Walt Disney World and Shanghai Disneyland.
D23: The Ultimate Fan Event Returns in 2026
Beyond films, fans learned the next D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event returns to Anaheim on August 14–16, 2026. The celebration will feature showcases, immersive experiences, and the return of D23 Days at Angel Stadium and Disneyland. Beloved Disney Legend Jodi Benson was also named the first-ever D23 FAN-bassador.
Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress
Panels throughout the weekend celebrated Disney history, music, and creativity. Filmmaker Leslie Iwerks announced Disneyland Handcrafted, a documentary exploring the park’s original construction. Imagineers also revealed that an Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney will soon appear in Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress.
“What’s Cooking with Disney Eats?”
The “What’s Cooking with Disney Eats?” panel teased themed drinks aboard the upcoming Disney Destiny cruise ship. Guests also saw eight new collectible novelty items coming to Disney Parks and Disney Cruise Line. Additionally, fans got a peek at a new outdoor patio for Napa Rose at Disneyland Resort.
The Emperor’s New Groove
The celebrations continued with a 25th anniversary event for The Emperor’s New Groove. Fans enjoyed a special night at Typhoon Lagoon with characters, snacks, and photo opportunities. Nostalgia also filled the air during the Disney Channel reunion panel and A Goofy Movie celebration.
Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom
On Sunday, Imagineers revealed that World of Frozen will open at Disneyland Paris in Spring 2026. This will complete the transformation of Walt Disney Studios Park into Disney Adventure World. Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom will also receive a refreshed color palette inspired by its classic design.
Disney Villains: Icons of Evil
Another major update came during the Disney Villains: Icons of Evil panel. Imagineers confirmed that a villains-themed land is coming to Magic Kingdom. Influenced by European Art Nouveau, the style is called “Conjured Architecture,” blending fantasy and history in spectacular ways.
Disney ’80s-’90s Celebration
The weekend closed with Disney ’80s-’90s 80s-’90s Celebration in Concert Presented by Disney+. Broadway stars performed beloved Disney hits, leaving fans on a high note.
From thrilling movie announcements to magical park updates, Destination D23 delivered something unforgettable for every Disney fan. The countdown to Anaheim 2026 has already begun!
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