Something big is gearing up to make a magical splash in Anaheim, California, later this year. For 2026, D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event returns just next door to The Happiest Place on Earth, celebrating the passion, imagination, and storytelling that only Disney can do.
And for this year, it’s coming back bigger and more fan-powered than ever before.
Running August 14-16, 2026, the Anaheim Convention Center will be home to the epicenter of the entire Disney fandom once again, inviting attendees to step into immersive lands, be a part of major reveals, shop limited-edition merchandise, experience once-in-a-lifetime performances, and so much more!
From the first cosplay sightings outside of Hall D, to the thunderous cheers inside the Honda Center during evening showcases, here’s what you can expect from the upcoming event — and this is only the beginning of many more surprises to come.
What to Expect at D23 2026 This Year
Three Days of Show‑Stopping Storytelling
Beloved franchise? Fan-favorite characters? Something new to discover around every corner? D23 2026 has it all, with more than 50 different panels and presentations across the three-day event. Fans will get to explore behind-the-scenes storytelling, meet talent who bring Disney magic to life, and dive into the stories they love like never before.
And that’s just at the ACC! Head over to the Honda Center each evening for a presentation featuring stars, storytellers, and unforgettable surprises: the Disney Entertainment Showcase on Friday, the Disney Experiences Showcase on Saturday, and the Disney Legends Award Ceremony on Sunday.
If cosplay is more your thing, be sure to check out the return of the fan-favorite D23 Mousequerade: The Ultimate Disney Costume Contest. And don’t forget to step into a whole new world of possibilities with the Walt Disney Imagineering pavilion, showcasing what’s being dreamed up next.
There will also be all-new 2026 experiences, including Mundo Pixar: The D23 Experience (featuring life-size sets of beloved films!), ESPN: Road to the Super Bowl, and activations inspired by Bluey, Camp Rock 3, The Simpsons, and more. Anyone looking to go extra fast can check out the Mickey F1 display, featuring a full Formula 1 car.
Additionally, Walt Disney Archives: Uncrated invites curious fans to step behind the scenes and into the vaults where Disney history is stored. 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.
A full lineup of presentations and the D23 2026 show floor will be revealed at a later date.
Disney Legends Honorees
Celebrating Icons Who Bring Disney Magic to Life
The D23 2026 weekend concludes with the Disney Legends Award Ceremony on Sunday afternoon, with a powerful tribute to the creators and figures whose contributions have defined Disney across generations.
During a ceremony at the Honda Center, led by returning host Ryan Seacrest, Disney’s highest honor will be presented in a celebration befitting the icons behind the magic whose impact continues to shape Disney’s future.
Honorees for 2026 include:
- Susan Egan
- Dwayne Johnson
- Anne Hathaway
- Alan Tudyk
- Jonas Brothers
- Lin‑Manuel Miranda
- Eric Goldberg
- Jerry Bruckheimer
- Chris Berman
- Kim Irvine
- Bob Iger
Anaheim Transforms for D23 Week
The magic begins long before the event weekend, with Anaheim hosting D23‑themed celebrations across the city.
The festivities begin on Saturday, August 8, with the opening of the Walt Disney Archives’ newest exhibition at the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center, “Capturing Life, Creating Character: The Art of Live-Action Reference,” featuring rare photography, costume pieces, artwork, and interactive elements exploring the connection between live‑action performance and animation.
The celebration continues Tuesday, August 11, with D23 Night at the Anaheim Packing District, featuring music, trivia, fan activities, and the sixth annual World Taste of the Packing District.
On Wednesday, August 12, fans can attend D23 Night at Angel Stadium, where the first 23,000 attendees will receive an exclusive Mickey Mouse bobblehead, and 2,300 of them are an exclusive gold variant.
On Thursday, August 13, D23 Day at Disneyland kicks off the weekend with a Disney Legends Cavalcade, giveaway of complimentary Mickey Mouse ear hats (while supplies last), magical surprises, and more. Plus, Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party returns for a one-day special event tailored to families with young children at California Adventure, featuring live entertainment, Disney Jr. characters, activities, and fun photo opportunities. Head over to the D23 Event Day at Disneyland for more information.
*Both valid Theme Park reservation and admission for the same Park on the same day are required for Park entry. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability and not guaranteed. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed. Visit Disneyland.com/updates for important information to know before visiting the Disneyland Resort.
**Limit one per ticketed Guest, while supplies last. Guest must be present at time of distribution. Subject to change or cancellation without notice or liability. Both a park reservation and valid admission are required for park entry. Embroidery is not available for the D23 Day Mickey Mouse ear hats.