D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event is officially scheduled to take place from Friday, August 14, through Sunday, August 16, 2026. This three-day extravaganza, organized by the official Disney fan club, will once again transform Anaheim, California, into the global epicenter of Disney magic, bringing together storytelling, innovation, and exclusive announcements from across the company's vast portfolio.

While the core event spans mid-August, the festivities in 2026 are part of a broader "D23 Week" starting as early as August 8. The 2026 iteration represents the largest expansion in the history of the event, utilizing two major venues to accommodate the growing number of fans: the Anaheim Convention Center for the expansive show floor and panels, and the Honda Center for the marquee evening showcases.

Core Dates and Location for D23 2026

The primary dates for D23 2026 are firmly set for the second weekend of August. Fans planning their travel should note the following core timeline:

  • August 14, 2026 (Friday): Day One of the main event and the Disney Entertainment Showcase.
  • August 15, 2026 (Saturday): Day Two and the Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase.
  • August 16, 2026 (Sunday): Day Three and the Disney Legends Awards Ceremony.

The event operations are split between two key locations in Anaheim. The Anaheim Convention Center will serve as the hub for the show floor, shopping, and daytime panels from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily. Meanwhile, the Honda Center, located approximately three miles away, will host the high-profile evening presentations. This dual-venue strategy allows for nearly 12,000 fans to experience the major showcases simultaneously, a significant increase from previous years held solely at the convention center.

The Pre-Event Week Schedule

The excitement for D23 2026 begins well before the convention center doors open on Friday morning. Disney has curated a series of localized events throughout Anaheim to build momentum for the weekend.

August 8: Muzeo Museum Opening

The Walt Disney Archives will kick off the week by opening a new exhibition titled "Capturing Life, Creating Character: The Art of Live-Action Reference" at the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center. This exhibit, running through November 1, 2026, features rare costumes, artwork, and interactive displays that showcase how animators and filmmakers use real-life references to create iconic characters.

August 11: D23 Night at the Packing District

The Anaheim Packing District, a historic food hall, will host a special evening for D23 members. The event includes live music, Disney-themed trivia, and the "World Taste of the Packing District," allowing fans to mingle in a more relaxed, communal setting before the main convention begins.

August 12: D23 Night at Angel Stadium

Baseball and Disney fandom collide on Wednesday night when the Los Angeles Angels face the Texas Rangers. This designated "D23 Night" includes a commemorative Mickey Mouse bobblehead for the first 23,000 attendees, with a rare gold variant distributed to 2,300 lucky fans. D23 Gold members typically receive ticket discounts and access to exclusive stadium zones.

August 13: D23 Day at Disneyland Resort

The day before the official start is traditionally celebrated as "D23 Day" at the Disneyland Resort. Both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park will feature special cavalcades, character appearances, and limited-edition merchandise. In 2026, this day also serves as the kickoff for World Princess Week, highlighted by the "Disney Princess: The Ultimate Concert Celebration" at Disney California Adventure, featuring the largest gathering of Disney Princess talent ever assembled on stage.

Friday, August 14: Disney Entertainment Showcase

The first official day of D23 2026 focuses on the future of Disney’s film, television, and streaming content. The Anaheim Convention Center will hum with activity throughout the day, culminating in the evening’s massive showcase at the Honda Center.

The Friday evening Entertainment Showcase is the platform where Disney traditionally reveals trailers and release dates for upcoming projects from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar, Marvel Studios, and Lucasfilm. In 2026, attendees can expect deep dives into announced titles like Frozen 3 and Incredibles 3, alongside first looks at new Marvel Television series like VisionQuest.

On the convention floor during the day, fans can explore the Disney+ and Hulu pavilion, which features a signature 4D theater. This immersive space offers photo opportunities inspired by recent hits such as Percy Jackson and the Olympians and Only Murders in the Building. The Friday schedule also includes the first rounds of the D23 Mousquerade, the official costume contest where fans compete for prizes in categories based on craftsmanship and creativity.

Saturday, August 15: Horizons Disney Experiences Showcase

Saturday is historically the busiest day of the event, as the focus shifts to Disney Parks, Experiences, and Products. This is the day when the future of Disneyland, Walt Disney World, and Disney Cruise Line is mapped out.

The evening presentation at the Honda Center, titled "Horizons: Disney Experiences," will be hosted by Neil Patrick Harris. Building on the massive $60 billion investment plan announced by Disney in 2024, the 2026 showcase is expected to provide specific details on the construction progress of new lands and attractions. This includes updates on the Avatar-themed land coming to the Disneyland Resort and the reimagined lands at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

During the day at the Anaheim Convention Center, the "Imagineering: Horizons" pavilion will be a primary draw. This exhibit often features physical models, concept art, and "blue sky" ideas from the Imagineers who design the theme parks. Saturday also features specialized panels celebrating anniversaries, such as the 40th anniversary of Pixar Animation Studios and the 75th anniversary of Alice in Wonderland.

Sunday, August 16: Disney Legends Awards Ceremony

The final day of D23 2026 is dedicated to honoring the individuals who have made significant contributions to the Disney legacy. The afternoon concludes with the Disney Legends Awards Ceremony at the Honda Center, hosted by Ryan Seacrest.

The Class of 2026 Disney Legends includes a diverse group of talent:

  • Bob Iger: Recognized for his transformative leadership as CEO.
  • Anne Hathaway: Honored for her iconic roles in The Princess Diaries and beyond.
  • Dwayne Johnson: Celebrated for his work in Moana and his overall impact on Disney entertainment.
  • Lin-Manuel Miranda: Acknowledged for his musical contributions to Hamilton, Moana, and Encanto.
  • The Jonas Brothers: Kevin, Joe, and Nick are honored for their long-standing history with Disney Channel and Disney Music Group.
  • Susan Egan: The original Belle on Broadway and voice of Megara in Hercules.
  • Jerry Bruckheimer: Producer of the Pirates of the Caribbean and National Treasure franchises.

At the convention center, Sunday remains a prime day for shopping and catching final panels. The "Disney Rewind" concert, featuring hits from the '80s and '90s, often takes place on one of the smaller stages, providing a nostalgic wrap-up to the weekend.

Navigating the Largest Show Floor in History

The 2026 show floor at the Anaheim Convention Center is designed to be more expansive than any previous year. Strategic planning is required to navigate the various brand pavilions, each offering unique interactive experiences.

Marvel Studios: TVA Experience

Following the success of the Time Variance Authority storyline in Loki and Deadpool & Wolverine, Marvel Studios will host an immersive walkthrough titled "Marvel Studios’ TVA Experience: Your Next Assignment." This activation allows fans to step into the multiverse, featuring props and sets that bridge the gap between various films and series.

Lucasfilm Pavilion

Star Wars fans will find a dedicated space featuring costumes and props from upcoming series. A highlight for 2026 is a special screening of LEGO Star Wars: The Mandalorian and fireside chats with the creative teams behind the latest "Galaxy Far, Far Away" projects.

Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios

The joint animation pavilion will celebrate Pixar's 40th anniversary with artist demonstrations and autograph signings. Fans can get a first-hand look at the development of Gatto and Frozen 3. This area often includes life-size sets from upcoming films for photo opportunities.

Walt Disney Archives: Uncrated

The Archives pavilion is a must-visit for historians and longtime fans. For 2026, the theme is "Uncrated," focusing on rarely seen artifacts from the Disney vaults. This includes original animation cells, park ride vehicles, and costumes worn by legendary actors.

Ticketing Structure and Membership Requirements

Access to D23 2026 requires a D23 Gold Membership, which can be purchased on the official D23 website. This membership ensures that the event remains focused on the dedicated fan community. There are several ticket tiers designed to accommodate different levels of access and budget.

D23 Fan Pass

This ticket provides access to the Anaheim Convention Center only. It is ideal for fans who want to explore the show floor, shop for exclusive merchandise, and attend daytime panels without attending the major evening showcases at the Honda Center.

  • Afternoon Only Pass: Starts at $49.
  • 1-Day Pass: Starts at $79.
  • 3-Day Pass: Starts at $209.

D23 Ultimate Fan Pass

This is the most popular option, as it includes access to the Anaheim Convention Center and a reserved seat for the evening showcase at the Honda Center for the corresponding day.

  • 1-Day Pass: Starts at $99.
  • 3-Day Pass: Starts at $297.

D23 Ultimate Preferred Fan Pass

This premium 3-day ticket is for the ultimate collector and fan. It includes all the benefits of the Ultimate Fan Pass, plus floor seating at the Honda Center and access to the Random Selection Process (RSP) for limited-edition pin releases.

  • 3-Day Preferred Pass: Starts at $1,299.

The Reservation Random Selection Process (RSP)

To manage crowds and ensure fairness, D23 uses an RSP system for its most popular panels and shopping experiences at the Anaheim Convention Center. Typically, ticket holders can rank their preferences in July, and confirmations are sent out in early August. Standby queues are usually available but are not guaranteed.

Travel and Planning for Anaheim

Given the scale of D23 2026, booking accommodations and transportation well in advance is critical. Most hotels surrounding the Anaheim Convention Center sell out months before the dates are officially announced.

Air Travel

The most convenient airport is John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County, which is approximately 15 minutes from the convention center. Alternatively, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) offers more flight options but requires a 45-minute to 2-hour drive depending on traffic.

Local Transportation

Since the event is split between the Convention Center and the Honda Center, Disney often provides shuttle services for Ultimate Fan Pass holders. However, ride-sharing services and the Anaheim Resort Transportation (ART) buses are reliable alternatives. Many fans choose to stay at "walking distance" hotels along Harbor Boulevard to avoid parking fees and traffic.

Dining and Supplies

The Anaheim Convention Center offers various food courts, and the nearby Downtown Disney District provides a wider array of sit-down restaurants. It is highly recommended to carry a portable battery for mobile devices, as the D23 app is essential for schedule updates and digital tickets.

Summary of D23 2026 Details

The 2026 D23 event promises to be a landmark occasion for Disney fans worldwide. By expanding its footprint and schedule, Disney is ensuring that more people than ever can witness the next chapter of the company’s history.

  • Official Dates: August 14–16, 2026.
  • Main Venues: Anaheim Convention Center and Honda Center.
  • Key Highlights: Entertainment Showcase (Friday), Experiences Showcase (Saturday), Disney Legends (Sunday).
  • Ticketing: Requires D23 Gold Membership; prices range from $49 to $1,299.
  • Pre-Event Activities: Start on August 8 with museum exhibits and stadium nights.

Frequently Asked Questions About D23 2026

What are the exact dates for D23 2026? The main event takes place from Friday, August 14, to Sunday, August 16, 2026. Pre-event activities begin on August 8.

Do I need a special membership to buy D23 2026 tickets? Yes, you must be a D23 Gold Member to purchase tickets. Membership can be obtained through the official D23 website.

Where is D23 2026 being held? The event is split between the Anaheim Convention Center (show floor and daytime panels) and the Honda Center (major evening showcases) in Anaheim, California.

When do tickets for D23 2026 go on sale? While specific sale dates can vary, tickets typically go on sale several months in advance. Many tiers for the 2026 event are already available or have completed their initial release phases as of mid-2026.

Can I attend the Honda Center showcases with a standard Fan Pass? No, the D23 Fan Pass only grants access to the Anaheim Convention Center. To see the evening showcases at the Honda Center, you must purchase an Ultimate Fan Pass or an Ultimate Preferred Fan Pass.

Will there be an online stream for those who can't attend? Disney often streams select panels and the Disney Legends ceremony on Disney+ or official social media channels, though the major "sneak peek" footage at the Honda Center is usually exclusive to in-person attendees.

Is D23 2026 family-friendly? Absolutely. The event features programming for all ages, including the Disney Jr. Let’s Play! party specifically designed for preschoolers and their families.