If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the heart of all things Disney, the D23 Disney fan event is as close as it gets. Held every other year in Anaheim, California, this extraordinary gathering transforms the Anaheim Convention Center into a sprawling celebration of movies, television, theme parks, animation, and the cultural legacy of The Walt Disney Company. For 2025, D23 delivered another unforgettable weekend packed with celebrity appearances, blockbuster announcements, jaw-dropping cosplay, and emotional moments that honored the newest class of Disney Legends.
From exclusive first looks at upcoming films to the reveal of new theme park attractions, the D23 Disney fan event continues to be the place where the magic of Disney takes center stage. Here’s your comprehensive guide to what happened behind the scenes , and the biggest reveals that left fans buzzing.
What Is the D23 Disney Fan Event?
Founded by Disney as a way to connect directly with its most passionate fans, D23 (named after 1923, the year Walt Disney arrived in Hollywood and eventually founded the studio) has grown into one of the most anticipated pop culture conventions in the world. The event is hosted by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, and it brings together die-hard enthusiasts, casual moviegoers, and industry insiders for a multi-day celebration.
Unlike other fan conventions, D23 is uniquely Disney. Every panel, exhibit, and experience is curated to celebrate the company’s vast creative universe , from Pixar and Marvel to Star Wars, National Geographic, and Hulu. Attendees get the rare chance to hear directly from filmmakers, imagineers, and stars who shape the entertainment landscape for years to come.
Why D23 Matters for Disney Fans
- Exclusive reveals: Movie trailers, casting announcements, and theme park concepts often debut here first.
- Star access: Fans can meet and hear from A-list celebrities attached to upcoming Disney projects.
- Disney Legends ceremony: The prestigious honor inducting individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the Disney legacy.
- Cosplay culture: A showcase of stunning handmade costumes inspired by beloved Disney characters.
The Biggest Movie Reveals at D23 2025
One of the most thrilling aspects of any D23 Disney fan event is the parade of cinematic announcements. This year was no exception, with major updates on highly anticipated films spanning animation and live-action.
“Zootopia 3” – The Return to the Animal Metropolis
Fans of the franchise were thrilled to hear that “Zootopia 3” is officially in development. Stars Ginnifer Goodwin (voice of Judy Hopps) and Ke Huy Quan (voice of Gary De’Snake) shared exciting news on the red carpet. Goodwin confirmed that audience interpretation of the post-credits scene from “Zootopia 2” is accurate, hinting that fan theories about the sequel’s direction were spot on. Quan reassured audiences that all their favorite characters will return, including his breakout character Gary De’Snake.
“Coco 2” – A New Chapter in the Land of the Dead
Pixar’s beloved musical family is getting a sequel, and Benjamin Bratt, who voices the iconic character Ernesto de la Cruz, was on hand to share what’s coming next. While plot details remain under wraps, the mere announcement of “Coco 2” sent waves of excitement through the audience.
Live-Action “Tangled” – Rapunzel Returns
Disney’s trend of reimagining animated classics as live-action films continues with a new take on “Tangled.” Kathryn Hahn, who is involved in the project, shared insights about how the studio is approaching this beloved fairy tale. Live-action remakes remain a hot topic among fans, and this one is sure to generate plenty of discussion.
“Hexed” – A Magical Animated Feature with Jodie Foster
One of the more surprising announcements was “Hexed,” an animated film featuring the voice talent of Academy Award-winning actress Jodie Foster. Details about the project are still emerging, but Foster’s involvement signals a project of significant ambition and creative reach.
“Romy and Michelle 2” – A Nostalgic Reunion
Mira Sorvino joined the festivities to discuss “Romy and Michelle 2,” a long-awaited sequel that promises to reunite fans with the beloved comedic duo from the original cult classic. The casting of Sorvino has already sparked excitement about how the story will honor its predecessor while carving out a fresh narrative.
Theme Park Magic: New Attractions Revealed
Beyond the silver screen, D23 has become the go-to venue for major theme park announcements. This year, Disney Imagineering unveiled ambitious new projects designed to immerse guests in their favorite stories like never before.
One of the standout reveals was the announcement of Avengers Infinity Defense, set to open in 2028 at Disneyland. This next-generation Marvel attraction promises cutting-edge technology and storytelling that brings guests into the heart of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. For thrill-seekers and Marvel fans alike, this is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious theme park experiences ever conceived.
The D23 show floor , billed as the largest in the event’s history , gave attendees a chance to explore concept art, ride prototypes, and immersive exhibits previewing what’s to come at Disney parks worldwide.
The Disney Legends Awards Ceremony
Perhaps the most emotional highlight of the D23 Disney fan event is the Disney Legends Awards. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the Disney legacy. The 2025 class of inductees reads like a who’s who of entertainment royalty:
- Lin-Manuel Miranda – The visionary creator behind “Hamilton” and composer of Disney’s “Encanto” and “Moana.”
- The Jonas Brothers – Pop superstars who have brought their music and energy to multiple Disney projects.
- Anne Hathaway – An acclaimed actress whose work spans iconic Disney films.
- Bob Iger – The longtime Disney CEO whose leadership has shaped the modern era of the company.
- Susan Egan – The original voice of Megara in “Hercules” and a beloved Disney stage performer.
- Chris Berman – The legendary sportscaster whose voice has been intertwined with Disney’s sports coverage.
- Dwayne Johnson – The superstar actor and producer whose collaborations with Disney have thrilled global audiences.
Reflecting on his induction, Dwayne Johnson shared a heartfelt sentiment: “Aside from the films that I do with Disney, I think this represents just much more than that. What it represents to me is just making people feel good.”
This sentiment captures the spirit of the Disney Legends Awards , celebrating not just professional achievement, but the human impact of storytelling and entertainment.
Cosplay Culture and Fan Creativity
No D23 Disney fan event would be complete without the spectacular cosplay that fills the convention halls. Fans spend months crafting elaborate costumes inspired by their favorite Disney characters, from classic princesses to obscure deep-cut references only true Disney devotees would recognize.
This year, the costume contest winners showcased extraordinary craftsmanship, blending traditional sewing skills with innovative materials and theatrical presentation. The cosplay community at D23 represents the heart of fan culture , a testament to how Disney stories inspire creativity, artistry, and connection across generations.
What Makes D23 Special Compared to Other Fan Events
While San Diego Comic-Con and other conventions celebrate a wide swath of pop culture, D23 remains uniquely focused on the entire Disney ecosystem. Here are a few elements that set it apart:
- Curated experiences: Every panel, exhibit, and event is 100% Disney-focused, allowing for deeper dives into individual franchises.
- Direct access to creators: Imagineers, animators, and studio executives frequently appear at panels, offering insights rarely shared elsewhere.
- Exclusive merchandise: Limited-edition collectibles and event-only items make D23 a haven for Disney memorabilia enthusiasts.
- The Disney Legends ceremony: This prestigious event is unique to D23 and represents the pinnacle of Disney recognition.
Looking Ahead: The Future of D23
As D23 continues to grow, both in scope and ambition, it remains the definitive gathering for anyone who has ever been moved by a Disney film, song, or theme park attraction. The announcements made at the 2025 event will shape Disney’s creative output for years to come , from the theatrical release of “Zootopia 3” to the grand opening of Avengers Infinity Defense at Disneyland.
For fans who couldn’t attend in person, the wave of coverage and behind-the-scenes specials ensures that the magic of D23 reaches far beyond Anaheim. Whether you’re a lifelong Disney enthusiast or a newcomer to the magic, the D23 Disney fan event offers something truly special: a chance to be part of the story.
If the 2025 event is any indication, the future of Disney storytelling is brighter than ever , and D23 will continue to be the place where that future is unveiled. Mark your calendars, start planning your cosplay, and get ready for the next chapter in the ultimate celebration of Disney magic.