Disney fans, mark your calendars – D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event is officially returning to Anaheim, California, from August 14–16, 2026. 
This three-day celebration of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and more promises to be one of the most immersive and spectacular events in Disney history, blending nostalgia with forward-looking surprises.
The announcement came during Destination D23, where Disney confirmed that the convention will once again be split between two major venues: the Anaheim Convention Center and the Honda Center. Attendees can expect marquee showcases, dazzling presentations, exclusive shopping experiences, and what Disney describes as “extended magic” throughout the entire week. This includes the highly anticipated return of D23 Day at Angel Stadium and D23 Day at Disneyland, creating a festival-like atmosphere across the city of Anaheim.
Michael Vargo, head of D23, emphasized that the team is working tirelessly to elevate the event even further: “D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event offers fans from around the globe a chance to experience the very best in storytelling and innovation in a way that only Disney can deliver. We are already hard at work dreaming up ways to continue raising the bar for Disney fans next year when we return to Anaheim, and we can’t wait to bring them a truly unforgettable event.”
Adding to the excitement, Disney Legend Jodi Benson, the iconic voice of Ariel in The Little Mermaid, has been named the very first D23 Fan-bassador. Her role will include connecting with fans and making appearances in the lead-up to the 2026 event, underscoring Disney’s effort to blend its legendary past with its dynamic present. Benson’s presence will likely be one of the emotional highlights of the celebration, as her legacy continues to inspire multiple generations of Disney lovers.
Tickets for the 2026 event are set to go on sale in the spring of 2026, and anticipation is already building. For many, D23 is more than just a convention – it’s a rare chance to be inside the room where Disney unveils its biggest creative moves, from future Marvel blockbusters to new Star Wars projects, Pixar’s latest innovations, and even fresh Disney Parks expansions. It’s a celebration that connects fans with the heart of Disney’s storytelling machine, while also serving as a hub for exclusive reveals, collectibles, and once-in-a-lifetime fan experiences.
While some observers have raised eyebrows – with a few joking that Disney is “advertising events that already ended” or even going so far as to troll the company’s financial struggles – the reality is that interest in D23 remains as strong as ever. Each iteration attracts thousands of fans from around the world, all eager to share their passion and witness Disney’s evolving legacy firsthand.
As 2026 approaches, Anaheim is preparing once again to become the center of the Disney universe. With expanded programming, legendary appearances, and a citywide celebration of magic, the next D23 promises not just another expo, but an unforgettable cultural moment for fans of all ages.