2017 Things To Know

Below is the 2017 D23 Expo Things To Know (Freq Asked Question Info) info. This information is from D23's website and and was last updated 6/26/16. As information is updated by D23 this entry will be updated to reflect those changes.
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Advanced Purchase Tickets
Tickets in advance of the event will only be available online. Please check back soon to find out when tickets will go on sale for the next D23 Expo.

Children’s Tickets
There are specially priced children’s tickets available for those ages 3 – 9. Children under three receive complimentary admission to D23 Expo.

D23 Expo Ticket Discounts
Discounted tickets are available only to D23 Members. Click here to join today!
No group or military discounts are available for D23 Expo.

Ticketing
All D23 Expo guests will be issued an event credential that should be shown at all times and is required to enter, leave, and return to the event. If you purchase your D23 Expo ticket prior the event, your credential will be mailed to you.

Will Call
Will call will be available for guests to pick up event credentials prior to D23 Expo.

Food and Beverage
No outside food, beverages, or coolers are allowed at D23 Expo. However, exceptions will be made for attendees with special dietary needs, including food allergies and baby food/formula.
Food and Beverage options will be available on site. Stay tuned for more details.

Shopping & Retailers
In addition to an expansive selection of Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, and Marvel merchandise, a large selection of collectors and retailers will also be offering shopping opportunities at D23 Expo.

Checks, Traveler’s Checks, and Money Orders
Traveler’s checks will be accepted at D23 Expo retail locations and box office, but checks and money orders are not accepted.

Credit Cards
The D23 Expo accepts MasterCard, Visa, and American Express credit cards at various retail and box office locations. However, acceptable forms of payment may vary by participating partners and retailers.

Guests with Disabilities
D23 Expo is happy to accommodate guests with special needs, including wheelchairs, and their service animals. Stay tuned for more details.

Strollers and Wheelchairs
Strollers and wheelchairs are not available for rent. If you are bringing a stroller and would like to attend a seminar or presentation, there will be designated areas for parking your stroller. Please do not leave any valuables with your stroller, as the D23 Expo is not responsible for any personal items that are lost, stolen, or broken.

Family Play Zone
This designated area includes seating, entertainment and games for families to enjoy during D23 Expo. Please note, the Family Play Zone is intended for families, and parents are required to be with their children inside the Play Zone at all times.

Lost Children
Please arrange in advance a meeting place and time in the event those in your party become separated. We are unable to page for separated party members. We suggest that you write your cell phone number on your child’s event credential in case your child becomes separated from you.

Charter Member Lounge
Those D23 Members who joined The Official Disney Fan Club in its first year will have special access to the exclusive D23 Charter Member Lounge. Here, they can break away from the D23 Expo, relax, and mingle with other Charter Members and enjoy special surprises. It’s just one of the perks of being an original Member of the club! To enter, guests will be required to show a current D23 Membership card with “Charter Member” listed on it. Only D23 Charter Members will be admitted to the Charter Member Lounge.

D23 Members
D23 Members should bring their D23 Membership card with them, as well as a valid photo ID for early admission to the D23 Expo, to purchase special D23 Member-exclusive merchandise and for other D23 benefits.

Overnight Queueing
While we do not encourage guests to wait overnight for sessions, to ensure guest safety, advanced lineups will be monitored by D23 Expo staff. Please stay tuned for more details.

Presentations, Signings, and Scheduled Events
All schedules, presentations, and special guests are subject to change without notice. Signing opportunities and presentation seating are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

StorePass
StorePass was introduced at select D23 Expo locations in 2015 in an effort to minimize wait times for our guests. Please stay tuned for more details.

StagePass Tickets
StagePass allows guests a guaranteed seat at select sessions at D23 Expo. StagePass tickets are very limited and are offered at no additional charge. Please stay tuned for more details.

Alcoholic Beverage Policy
Alcoholic beverages are not sold and are not allowed at the D23 Expo.

Autograph Signing Policy
We ask that you bring no personal items to be signed. Artists will only sign event merchandise purchased on the day of the event. A valid D23 Expo receipt may be required as proof of purchase.

Costume Information
All event attendees—including adults—may attend the D23 Expo dressed as their favorite Disney, Marvel and Star Wars Characters. Attendees in costume must adhere to the following guidelines:

Dress Code
In keeping with our family-friendly atmosphere, and for health and safety reasons, D23 Expo enforces a dress code. Proper attire must be worn at all times, including shirts and appropriate footwear. Clothing with rude, vulgar, or offensive language or graphics is not permitted at any time. Admission to D23 Expo may be denied if clothing is deemed by D23 Expo management to be inappropriate. Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended.

D23 EXPO COSTUME POLICIES

• Costumes should be family-friendly and may not be obstructive, offensive, or violent. Guests may wear masks. However, masks must not obstruct vision and eyes must be visible at all times. 
• Guests who dress like Disney Characters may not pretend or imply that they are an official Disney Character. Creating lines or collecting money for pictures and/or signed autographs is not permitted. 
• Costumes should not drag on the ground. 
• Costumes should not contain sharp objects, pointed objects, or materials that may accidentally strike another guest. 
• Costumes should not contain any weapons that resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon. 
• Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry into the event unless his or her costume can be modified to meet the above standards. The appropriateness of the guest costume will be determined by Disney in its sole discretion. 

Pets
Pets are not permitted at D23 Expo, with the exception of guide, signal, or service animals (as defined by state and local laws).

Photography/Video Policy
Photography and videography may be prohibited at select venues, screenings and presentations. For the safety, security, and comfort of our guests, selfie sticks and drones are not allowed at D23 Expo.

Smoking Policy
D23 Expo is a non-smoking event. Smoking and e-cigarettes will only be allowed in designated areas.

UPDATED 5/22/17
Disneyland® Resort Theme Park Tickets
Our friends at Disneyland Resort are extending a special offer for discounted park tickets during your time at the Expo. Guests who purchase tickets to D23 Expo will receive a special link to purchase specially priced tickets to Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. If you did not receive this notification, please email D23MemberEvents@experient-inc.com with your ticket confirmation details and they will resend you the information.

2015 D23 Expo Things To Know (Freq Asked Question Info)

Below is the 2015 D23 Expo Things To Know (Freq Asked Question Info) info. This information is from D23's website and from group members. This information was last updated 8/2/15.

Follow D23 Members, Expo Fans & Attendees on Facebook and join our Facebook group

General Info from the Group not addressed by D23

• If you live outside the US your tickets will not be mailed to you, you will need to pick them up at will call, info on that will be released closer to the expo. Will call hours are below.
• For those in the US that have bought tickets, they historically have been mailed in mid-late July, they don't provide tracking
• Room Discounts/Park ticket discount info is in the confirmation email you receive when you buy your tickets direct from D23
• You will need your valid Gold/Silver D23 Card to take advantage of special card carrying perks
• Historically D23 releases the full schedule for the Expo at the end of July-- Tickets mailed around 7/24, if you dont have them by 8/3ish in the US contact D23 
• Tickets do not come in the mail with lanyards, these are handed out at entry.

Things to Know Directly From D23.com Source https://d23.com/d23-expo/things-to-know/Updated to include new over night and storepass info.

Advanced Purchase Tickets
Tickets in advance of the event are available online only. You can purchase your tickets at http://registration.experientevent.com/ShowDIS151/ D23 EXPO tickets will be sent out to U.S. residents mid-July.

Alcoholic Beverage Policy
Alcoholic beverages are not sold and are not allowed at the D23 EXPO.

Automatic Tellers (ATMs)
Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) will be available in several locations at the Anaheim Convention Center.

Autograph Signing Policy
We ask that you bring no personal items to be signed. Artists will only sign event merchandise purchased on the day of the event. A valid D23 EXPO receipt may be required as proof of purchase.

Bag Check
A bag check area is available in the lobby area outside of Hall A so you can conveniently leave your items while you enjoy the D23 EXPO. Price is $2 per bag. The bag check will close at 7:30 p.m. each day and unclaimed items will be forfeited to the Anaheim Convention Center lost and found department. (updated 7/3/15 to reflect fee and time change)

Charter Member Lounge
Those D23 Members who joined The Official Disney Fan Club in its first year will have special access to the exclusive D23 Charter Member Lounge. Here, they can break away from the EXPO, relax, and mingle with other Charter Members and enjoy special surprises from the Walt Disney Archives. It’s just one of the perks of being an original Member of the club! To enter, guests will be required to show a current D23 Membership card with “Charter Member” listed on it. Only D23 Charter Members will be admitted to the Charter Member Lounge.

Checks, Traveler’s Checks, and Money Orders
Traveler’s checks will be accepted at D23 EXPO retail locations and box office, but checks and money orders are not accepted.

Children’s Tickets
There are specially prices children’s tickets available for those ages 3 – 9. Children under three receive complimentary admission to D23 EXPO.

Costume Information
All event attendees—including adults—may attend the D23 EXPO dressed as their favorite Disney, Marvel and Star Wars Characters. Attendees in costume must adhere to the following guidelines:

• Costumes should be family-friendly and may not be obstructive, offensive, or violent.
• Guests may wear masks. However, masks must not obstruct vision and eyes must be visible at all times.
• Guests who dress like Disney Characters may not pretend or imply that they are an official Disney Character. Creating lines or collecting money for pictures and/or signed autographs is not permitted.
• Costumes should not drag on the ground.
• Costumes should not contain sharp objects, pointed objects, or materials that may accidentally strike another guest.
• Costumes should not contain any weapons that resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon.

Guests who do not adhere to these guidelines may be refused entry into the event unless his or her costume can be modified to meet the above standards. The appropriateness of the guest costume will be determined by Disney in its sole discretion.

Credit Cards
The D23 EXPO accepts MasterCard, Visa, and American Express credit cards at various retail and box office locations. However, acceptable forms of payment may vary at our Emporium vendors.

Currency Exchange
D23 EXPO does not offer a currency exchange.

Discounts
No discounts for tickets/admission exist, except for D23 Members.

D23 Members
D23 Members should bring their D23 Membership card with them, as well as a valid photo ID for access to early admission to the EXPO, to purchase special D23 Member-exclusive merchandise and for other D23 benefits.

D23 Member Tickets
If you are a D23 Gold or Silver Member purchasing the special discounted D23 Member tickets, you and the up to three guests you may purchase tickets for will be afforded early entry to D23 EXPO as a group. Please note that only guests with the D23 Member tickets and a current D23 Gold or Silver Membership Card will have this privilege, and in order to receive early entry, the member’s entire party must be with the member at the time of entrance.

Dress Code
In keeping with our family-friendly atmosphere, and for health and safety reasons, D23 EXPO enforces a dress code. Proper attire must be worn at all times, including shirts and appropriate footwear. Clothing with rude, vulgar, or offensive language or graphics is not permitted at any time. Admission to D23 EXPO may be denied if clothing is deemed by D23 EXPO management to be inappropriate. Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended.

Entrance Locations
Upon arrival, there will be signs clearly visible to direct you to the entrances of the D23 EXPO areas you wish to visit first:

• Show Floor – D23 Gold and Silver Members
• Show Floor – General Admission/D23 General Members
• Hall D23 – All Attendees

Hall D23 entrance will open as early as 8:00 a.m. (time subject to change) to all D23 EXPO attendees. Since recording devices will not be allowed at select Hall D23 presentations, a camera check location will be available. The lineup location and entrance for the Hall D23 presentations will take place in Hall E. Please proceed to Hall E for access to the Hall D23 presentations.

EXPO Emporium
The EXPO Emporium will offer a massive selection of collectors and exhibitors offering all things Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, Marvel and more. Disneyana treasures, fan sites, galleries and more will be included in this year’s expansive area.

Family Play Zone
This designated area, located on the second floor, is designated to be a place for families to gather for a little “downtime.” There will be seating, entertainment, and games inside this area. Please note, the Family Play Zone is intended for families, and parents are required to be with their children inside the Play Zone at all times. (NEW 7/3/15)

First Aid
First aid locations are available during show hours in the main lobby between Hall A and Hall B and in the Arena lobby.

Food and Beverage
No outside food, beverages, or coolers are allowed at D23 EXPO. However, exceptions will be made for attendees with special dietary needs, including food allergies and baby food/formula. There will be multiple dining locations available to guests inside the Anaheim Convention Center during EXPO show floor hours, as well as a selection of gourmet food trucks in front of the Convention Center from 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (additional info added 7/3/15)

Group Discounts
No group other than D23 Members will receive a discount on D23 EXPO admissions.

Guests with Disabilities
Updated 7/3/15-
The D23 EXPO will be able to accommodate guests with special needs, including wheelchairs, and their service animals. For guests who are hearing impaired, the sessions taking place in Hall D23 will have sign-language interpreters. None of the venues for D23 EXPO presentations is able to accommodate early entry. There will be seating just outside if you are unable to stand in the session’s queue. You should join your group’s place in the queue once they arrive at the venue’s entrance to be seated.
For additional requests or needs, please visit our D23 EXPO Guest Relations desk in the lobby. Please note: motorized scooters are not allowed in the seating area of Hall D23. Scooters may be parked outside of the Hall after guests have transferred to their seats.Original: The Anaheim Convention Center provides accommodations that are structural in nature. D23 EXPO will take every measure to ensure that individuals with disabilities will be able to participate and experience all areas of the D23 EXPO. There will be a sign-language interpreter for select Hall D23 sessions.

Hours
D23 Gold and Silver Member Show Floor Hours 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
General Admission/D23 General Member Show Floor Hours 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Lockers
There are no lockers available at the D23 EXPO. Please keep all your personal belongings with you. The D23 EXPO is not responsible for any personal items that are lost or stolen.

Lost Children
Please arrange in advance a meeting place and time in the event those in your party become separated. We are unable to page for separated party members. We suggest that you write your cell phone number on your child’s event credential in case your child becomes separated from you.

Lost-and-Found
Please find a D23 EXPO or Anaheim Convention Center staff member who will direct you to the lost-and-found, where representatives will be happy to help you locate your lost items. D23 EXPO is not responsible for any lost, stolen, or broken items. For information regarding a lost item, you may also call the Anaheim Convention Center’s lost-and-found office at (714) 765-8950 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Military Discounts
There are no military discounts at D23 EXPO.

Overnight Queueing (added 6/15)

While we do not encourage guests to wait overnight for sessions, to ensure guest safety we will be opening up the Anaehim Convention Center Thursday and Friday nights and allow guests to remain there Hall E. Advance lineups for access to the Show Floor (Gold, Silver, and General Admission) and Hall D23 will take place the evening prior to the Friday and Saturday dates of D23 EXPO 2015.
If you are attending D23 EXPO 2015 on Friday, August 14, lineups will begin on Thursday, August 13th at 10 p.m. in Hall E. If you are attending D23 EXPO 2015 on Saturday, August 15, lineups will begin on Friday, August 14th at 10 p.m. in Hall E.
If you arrive at 7 a.m. or later on Friday, August 14 and/or Saturday, August 15, please use the queue at the main entrance to the Anaheim Convention Center for access to the Show Floor. To attend the presentations in Hall D23, please proceed directly to Hall E for the queue.
For Sunday, August 16, the Show Floor lineups will begin no earlier than 5 a.m. at the main entrance to the Anaheim Convention Center. Please proceed directly to Hall E to attend the presentations in Hall D23. No overnight lineups will take place the evening prior.
For the overnight lineups in Hall E, please do not bring anything that cannot easily be put away into a backpack or smaller-size bag since there is not a place to store/check items until the Show Floor opens. Please do not leave items unattended.
A concession stand offering a limited menu will be open in Hall E for your convenience. No re-entry allowed, and all members of your party must be present (no holding space in line for others to join later).

ParkingUpdated Version Updated 7/15
Public parking is available at the Anaheim Convention Center. The cost is $15 per entry and $30 per entry for oversized vehicles 20′ and longer. Vehicles exceeding 40’ in length will not be admitted. Overnight parking is not available. The Convention Center accepts Visa, MasterCard, and cash for parking. Please allow ample time for parking. Your parking ticket is valid for one-time entry only, so in-and-out privileges are not allowed.
Updated 6/15 Public parking is available at the Anaheim Convention Center. The cost is $15 per entry and $30 per entry for oversized vehicles 20′ and longer. Vehicles exceeding 40’ in length will not be admitted. Overnight parking is not available. The Convention Center accepts Visa, MasterCard, and cash for parking. Please allow ample time for parking. Your parking ticket is valid for one-time entry only, so in-and-out privileges are not allowed.
Original Version: Public parking is available at the Anaheim Convention Center. The cost is $12 per entry and $24 per entry for oversized vehicles 24′ and longer. The Convention Center accepts Visa, MasterCard, and cash for parking. Please allow ample time for parking. Your parking ticket is valid for one-time entry only, so in-and-out privileges are not allowed.)

Pets
Pets are not permitted at D23 EXPO, with the exception of guide, signal, or service animals (as defined by state and local laws).

Photography/Video Policy
Updated 7/3/15: For the safety, security, and comfort of our guests, selfie sticks and drones may not be used anywhere inside the Anaheim Convention Center during D23 EXPO 2015
Original  “Selfie Sticks” will not be permitted during presentations in Hall D23, Stage 23, and Stage 28, In addition, the sticks will not be permitted in the Walt Disney Archives exhibit.Original:No pictures or video are permitted in the Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives exhibit, other select venues and screenings, and as posted.

Selfie Sticks
Please see “Photography/Video Policy”

StorePass
In effort to minimize wait times for our guests, we’re introducing StorePass at select D23 EXPO shopping locations. A very limited quantity of D23 EXPO 2015 StorePass tickets will be available for priority entry to these D23 EXPO shopping experiences: D23 EXPO Dream Store, Disney Store, and Mickey’s of Glendale.

Here’s how it works:

• Starting at 10 a.m., and while D23 EXPO StorePass tickets last, visit the StorePass desk located adjacent to the StagePass distribution area in Hall A.
• Choose one of the 30 minute shopping experience timeslots, held from 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
• Present your D23 EXPO 2015 admission ticket to receive a StorePass ticket for the respective shopping experience location.
• Each person is limited to one StorePass ticket for each shopping experience location per day.
• Please arrive at the shopping experience location at least 5 minutes prior to the start of your assigned timeslot with your StorePass ticket.
• StorePass tickets are valid only for the timeslot printed on the ticket.

Transportation to EXPO from Disneyland Resort HotelsFor guests staying at the Disneyland Resort Hotels, shuttle service will be available during show hours to take you to Anaheim Convention Center. Check back for specific shuttle operating hours.

Ticketing
Everyone will be issued an event credential that should be shown at all times and is required to enter, leave, and return to the event. If you purchase your D23 EXPO ticket prior the EXPO, your credential will be mailed to you. You do not need to register onsite for the event. Simply present your ticket(s) at the main entrance and pick up a complimentary badge holder in the lobby so you can easily have your ticket(s) visible throughout the EXPO. The barcode on your ticket contains your name and email address so you may choose to present this at participating booths to receive additional information about what they have to offer.

Show Your Badge and Save (new 7/3/15)
Take advantage of special discounts and offers for D23 EXPO guests through the Anaheim/Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau. (http://microsite.visitanaheim.org/d23-expo-ultimate-disney-fan-event)

Smoking Policy
The Anaheim Convention Center is a non-smoking facility. Smoking is only allowed on the balconies, terraces, and other designated exterior areas of the facility.

StagePass Tickets

Updated 8/3/15 Back by popular demand, a limited number of StagePass tickets are available, at no additional charge, to guarantee seating at select sessions in Stage 23 and Stage 28.

Ticket Distribution Hours:
Please note StagePass is not available for sessions starting prior to 11:00 a.m. (To attend sessions that begin before 11:00 a.m., please proceed directly to Stage 23 or Stage 28).

• For sessions starting from 11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., StagePass is available starting at 9:00 a.m. (until ticket inventory is depleted).
• For sessions starting at 3:00 p.m. or later, StagePass is available starting at 12:30 p.m. (until ticket inventory is depleted).

How It Works:

• Visit our StagePass ticket distribution area, located in Hall A on the show floor, during normal operating show floor hours.
• Choose which show you wish to attend.
• Present your D23 EXPO ticket to receive a StagePass ticket for the show you’ve selected.
• You are limited to one StagePass ticket for one session that starts between 11:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. You are welcome to return to the distribution line after 12:30 p.m. to receive one StagePass ticket for one later session. You may get StagePass tickets for your entire party, as long as you have a D23 EXPO ticket for each StagePass ticket requested for that day, while inventory lasts.
• Arrive at Stage 23 or Stage 28 at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the session, with your StagePass ticket, to guarantee your seat. If you do not arrive by this time, a standby guest will fill your seat.

NOTE:
Stage 23 and Stage 28 are general admission seating only, filled on a first-come, first-served basis. StagePass tickets are not assigned to a specific seat. StagePass tickets are not available for Hall D23 sessions, or for presentations scheduled prior to 11:00 a.m. in Stage 23 and Stage 28.

Original:
Back by popular demand is StagePass, where you can get passes to attend select presentations throughout the EXPO. Check back here soon for additional information.

Strollers and Wheelchairs
We do not rent strollers or wheelchairs. If you are bringing a stroller and would like to attend a seminar or presentation, there will be designated areas for parking your stroller. Please do not leave any valuables with your stroller, as the D23 EXPO is not responsible for any personal items that are lost, stolen, or broken.

Will Call (added 7/15)
Will call is located in the lobby of the Anaheim Convention Center. Will call hours of operation are as follows:

• Thursday, August 13, 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Friday, August 14 – Sunday, August 16: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

MICHAEL VARGO NAMED VICE PRESIDENT, D23, SPECIAL EVENTS AND DISNEY CORPORATE CREATIVE RESOURCES

Michael Vargo has been named Vice President, D23,  Special Events and Disney Corporate Creative Resources, it was announced today by Zenia Mucha, Executive Vice President and Chief Communications Officer, The Walt Disney Company.

A 24-year Disney veteran, Mr. Vargo will oversee D23: The Official Disney Fan Club and the Walt Disney Archives. He will also lead production and digital technology operations at Disney Corporate Creative Resources, the in-house creative agency that serves Disney’s Corporate departments. Mr. Vargo, who previously served as Director, Corporate Special Events and General Manager of D23 Expo, will report directly to Ms. Mucha. 

“Mike has displayed superb leadership and talent in producing special events that showcase the very best of Disney, from our Annual Meeting to the spectacular D23 Expo that draws tens of thousands of fans from around the globe,” Ms. Mucha said. “His deep knowledge of the Company and understanding of the Disney brand make him perfectly suited to lead D23 and the Walt Disney Archives to even greater achievements.”

“I am thrilled and honored to be working with the talented teams at D23, the Walt Disney Archives, and Disney Corporate Creative Resources as we deliver creative and innovative content, produce first-class special events, and share our company’s rich history with our fans and audiences worldwide,” Mr. Vargo said.

Rounding out the D23 and Archives leadership teams are Kristin Rodack, Director of D23 Membership and Marketing, Jeffrey Epstein, Director of D23 Communications and Creative Content, and Rebecca Cline, Director of the Walt Disney Archives. 

Mr. Vargo began his career at Disney in 1992 at Disneyland Entertainment. He served as Senior Production Manager, Walt Disney Special Events Group & Disney Live Family Entertainment from 1998 to 2004, before being named Director, Corporate Special Events. He graduated from California State University, Fullerton with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications.

*Source D23 Press Release

DISNEY TWENTY-THREE UNLOCKS THE GATES TO SHANGHAI DISNEY RESORT (SPRING 2016 Edition)

On June 16, Disney will officially open Shanghai Disney Resort, and Disney twenty-three is giving fans an advance peek at this breathtaking one-of-a-kind destination. From its opening pages, with a welcome from Disney Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger, to the back cover, featuring a map of the park—in Chinese—the issue is packed with exciting details about this new resort that celebrates everything guests love about Disney, while honoring China’s distinct cultural heritage.

The issue, exclusively for Gold Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, provides a detailed look at how Shanghai Disney Resort was built from concept to concrete, including fascinating insights into the partnership between Walt Disney Imagineers and the incredibly talented artisans of mainland China. Readers will be able to explore all the exclusive attractions opening at the park including Voyage to the Crystal Grotto, which recreates moments from beloved Disney animated films as riders travel by boat through, around, and under the Enchanted Storybook Castle—the largest castle in any Disney park. The thrilling adrenaline rush of TRON Lightcycle Power Run puts guests in the driver’s seat of a high-tech race, and the high seas adventures of Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure boasts some of the most advanced technologies of any Disney attraction.

More than 30 pages of exclusive interviews and vibrant photography come together to highlight this jewel in the Disney Parks crown, from all-new shows, experiences, merchandise, and dining options to a rare glimpse behind the scenes of the creation of the resort.

Plus, Disney twenty-three turns up the heat with its annual summer movie preview. Highlights include exclusive interviews with Ellen DeGeneres discussing the upcoming Finding Dory as well as her first trip to Disneyland, Bryce Dallas Howard talking about the reimagining of Pete’s Dragon, and Academy Award^® winner Steven Spielberg revealing details about his Disney directorial debut, The BFG.

Also included in the summer issue of Disney twenty-three is a look at how The Reluctant Dragon, celebrating its 75th anniversary, gave audiences a peek at the making of Disney animated films, while paving the way for the Disney Studio’s respected documentary films.

Disney twenty-three, which is delivered directly to fans’ doorsteps, is offered exclusively to D23 Gold and Gold Family Members as a benefit of their membership. The latest issue will begin arriving in late May. 

*Source D23 Press Release

DESTINATION D: AMAZING ADVENTURES CELEBRATES THE EXCITEMENT OF DISNEY’S PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE, FROM TRUE-LIFE ADVENTURES TO PANDORA – THE WORLD OF AVATAR

Since Walt Disney first brought his groundbreaking True-Life Adventures to the big screen, adventure has played a pivotal role in Disney entertainment, from the Jungle Cruise and Pirates of the Caribbean to the new planet of Pandora, which will soon be unveiled at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This year, members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club are invited to join the excitement at D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures, a celebration of these landmarks of the past, present, and future. The two-day event will take place November 19 and 20, 2016 at Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World Resort.

Presenters and panelists include Disney Legends Marty Sklar and Tony Baxter; Walt Disney Imagineers Joe Rohde, Chris Merritt, Jason Grandt, and Wyatt Winter; producer Don Hahn (The Lion King, Beauty and the Beast); and Walt Disney Archives Director Becky Cline—plus more to be announced.*

Mickey’s of Glendale, the famed Walt Disney Imagineering store, returns with a pop-up shop at the event for attendees, featuring a selection of exclusive Walt Disney Imagineering merchandise as well as limited-edition pins, apparel, and collectibles themed to the event.

Highlights of D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures will include*:

• New Walt Disney World Adventures: From Soarin’ Around the World to Rivers of Light—Get an insider’s glimpse into the latest experiences across Walt Disney World Resort, as Disney Imagineers provide a behind-the-scenes look at new and upcoming entertainment.
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Evolving a New Species of Theme Park—Explore the origins and incredible evolution of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, from early concepts to new experiences to be discovered at the park.
• Magic Journeys: 45 Years of Walt Disney World Adventures—Celebrate the 45th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort with a nostalgic journey through some of the Vacation Kingdom’s most unique and fondly remembered adventures!
• A Look Back at Walt Disney’s True-Life Adventures—Join Disney historians on an expedition through the landmark True-Life Adventure series, which earned the Disney Studio eight Academy Awards^®!
• The Art and Adventures of Marc Davis—Discover the adventurous artwork of artist, animator, and Disney Legend Marc Davis with Walt Disney Imagineering Senior Production Designer Chris Merritt, who is authoring a new book on the Disney Legend.

 

The weekend event will take place in the convention center at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Tickets go on sale April 21, 2016, and are $190 each for D23 Gold and Gold Family Members. Tickets are also available to D23 General Members for $250 per ticket. All guests will receive a special gift created exclusively for the event, and attendees are guaranteed seats at all panels and presentations. A limited number of Wilderness Explorer VIP tickets will be available, which includes early shopping, an exclusive evening experience on November 18, reserved seating for all presentations, a special gift bag, unique collectibles, and more.

 

Further details about the program and tickets for D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures, can be found at D23.com/Events. Additional schedule announcements will be made in the coming months.

*Source D23 Press Release

ALL OF DISNEY’S WONDERFUL WORLDS COME TOGETHER AT D23 EXPO—THE ULTIMATE DISNEY FAN EVENT— JULY 14–16, 2017, IN ANAHEIM, CALIF.

All the magic and excitement of the past, present, and future of Disney entertainment will come together once again when D23: The Official Disney Fan Club presents D23 Expo 2017 at the Anaheim Convention Center the weekend of July 14–16. Each of Disney’s magical worlds will unite under one roof to celebrate what’s new and what’s on the horizon from theme parks, television, music, gaming, and films, including Pixar, Star Wars, and Marvel. 

 

Highlights planned for D23 Expo include the Disney Legends Ceremony, which honors the talented men and women who have made significant contributions to the Disney legacy; an all-new exhibit curated by the Walt Disney Archives; D23 Expo’s costume contest, Mousequerade, showcasing the most creative designs by fans; the D23 Expo Emporium, where Disney fans can buy, sell, and trade Disney collectibles, memorabilia, merchandise, and more; and the D23 Expo Design Challenge. (Details on the Design Challenge and Mousequerade will be forthcoming.)

 

The 2017 Expo will feature a massive show floor full of immersive experiences and special opportunities to see what’s next for Disney around the world—and guests may run into their favorite Disney stars, characters, Imagineers, animators, and filmmakers. StagePass, the popular ticket distribution system that allows attendees to obtain guaranteed seats for some of Expo’s most popular presentations, and StorePass, which allows priority entry to select shopping venues at the event, will once again enhance the guest experience. Hall D23, the popular presentation and performance venue featuring more than 7,000 seats, will return, as will Stage 23, Stage 28, and Center Stage.

The fifth event follows the success of D23 Expo 2015, which drew tens of thousands of Disney fans for three star-studded days and nights. Guests were treated to appearances by such celebrities as Johnny Depp, Harrison Ford, Ellen DeGeneres, Chris Evans, Ginnifer Goodwin, and Dwayne Johnson and watched performances by Ne-Yo, Sabrina Carpenter, the cast of Teen Beach 2 and stars of Disney’s shows on Broadway. Guests previewed costumes from Star Wars: The Force Awakens and were the first to hear about the new Star Wars-themed lands coming to Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts. They also enjoyed a look back at Disney’s rich history through extraordinary panels, presentations, and exhibits and discovered the newest entertainment, technology, and products coming from Disney.

 

Advance tickets for D23 Expo 2017 will go on sale at D23Expo.com beginning July 14, 2016. D23 Members will receive special pricing on both one- and three-day tickets to the event, which is open to the general public. D23 Gold and Charter Members will also be entitled to special benefits at the 2017 Expo. Gold Members will also have an opportunity to purchase the Sorcerer Package, which provides a host of special benefits and amenities. Ticket prices will be announced this summer.

 

About D23 Expo

D23 Expo—The Ultimate Disney Fan Event—brings together all the worlds of Disney under one roof for three packed days of presentations, pavilions, experiences, concerts, sneak peeks, shopping, and more. The event provides fans with unprecedented access to Disney films, television, games, theme parks, and celebrities. Presentations, talent, and schedule are subject to change. For the latest D23 Expo news, visit D23Expo.com. To join the D23 Expo conversation, make sure to follow @DisneyD23 on Twitter and use #D23Expo.

*Source D23 Press Release

D23 MEMBERS RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE SAVINGS ALL YEAR LONG WITH DISCOUNTS AND OFFERS FROM DISNEY AND BEYOND

At home or on vacation, members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club receive exclusive discounts on shopping, entertainment, and Disney adventures when they present a D23 Membership Card or use special member-only online codes.

D23 Members can enjoy savings throughout the worlds of Disney including:

• 15% off all purchases of $60 or more at DisneyStore.com and in all Disney Store locations through March 31, 2016
• A discount on VIP tickets to see Star Wars: The Force Awakens now through February 7, 2016 at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood—as well as special pricing for Lady and the Tramp and Zootopia during their 2016 runs
• Savings of 15% off purchases at the ABC Store online, including items from fan favorite shows such as Once Upon a Time and Scandal
• 30% off the beautiful Disney Princess: A Magical Pop-Up World book
• Up to 53% savings on Disney magazines including Disney Frozen, Disney Junior, and Marvel Super Heroes

D23 is bringing back its most popular opportunities for savings on hotels, restaurants, and stores in and around Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, including:

• Discounted rates at Howard Johnson Anaheim, Carousel Inn & Suites, and the Anabella Hotel located near Disneyland Resort; as well as at Buena Vista Palace Hotel & Spa, B Resort & Spa, Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista, and Wyndham Lake Buena Vista, located near Walt Disney World Resort
• 10% savings on activities at Sammy Duvall’s Watersports Centre and on merchandise at CURL^® by Sammy Duvall at Walt Disney World Resort
• Sweet savings at Ghirardelli Chocolate Company online, in its two Disney Parks shops, and at the El Capitan Theatre
• Dining discounts in and around Disneyland Resort, including Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen, Catal, Uva Bar, Naples, Tortilla Joe’s, and Tangerine Grill

In addition, D23 Members can take advantage of a host of ongoing and limited-time offers developed exclusively for them, including savings on tickets to the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco; a merchandise discount at the Walt Disney Hometown Museum in Marceline, Mo.; 40% off all online purchases of H2O Plus merchandise—the luxury skincare product available at Disney Parks; savings at UNIQLO online, including its exclusive line of Disney apparel; 10% off all purchases at RIDEMAKERZ^® online and at all locations—including the Disneyland 60th Anniversary Limited-Edition RZ Rascar and Rod vehicles available at the Anaheim store; plus 23% off all merchandise online from SMS Audio, the official headphones of D23.

Complete details on all D23 Member discounts and offers, as well as a full list of all the latest specials, can be found online at http://D23.com/Discounts. All offers are available to D23 Gold Members; D23 General Members receive access to a select number of discounts.

*Source D23 Press Release