Let’s be real—if there’s one place on Earth where Disney dreams come true before they hit the parks or the big screen, it’s Destination D23. And while my suitcase is sadly staying in the closet this year, my Disney heart is very much packing for Orlando.
So, what’s the buzz about Destination D23 2025? Grab your Mickey ears, because this is going to be huge.
What is Destination D23?
In short? It’s the biggest Disney fan event in the U.S. for 2025—kind of like Comic-Con, but for Disney diehards. This year’s edition, titled “A Journey Around the Worlds of Disney,” will take place from August 29 to 31, 2025 at the gorgeous Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort in Walt Disney World, Florida. (Yes, that’s a new and much larger venue—because apparently, Disney magic needs more space to sparkle.)
Tickets, anyone?
Only D23 Gold Members can snag a ticket (starting at $299 for General Admission, $549 for Preferred Seating, and $799 for Premier Seating—if you’re feeling extra fancy). Ticket sales opened on April 14, 2025, so if you were quick on the click, you might already be halfway to magic.
Not a Gold Member yet?
Becoming one is pretty easy—just head over to D23.com and sign up. A Gold Membership costs $99.99 USD per year for an individual, or $129.99 USD per year for a Duo Membership (perfect if you're planning a Disney-filled year with a fellow fan). Membership gets you access to event tickets, an exclusive quarterly collector's gift, the annual Gold Member collectible box, a subscription to the D23 magazine, and more.
Me? I’m still over here refreshing social media and living vicariously through others—Gold Member heart, but after my trip to Tokyo Disney last year and Disneyland Anaheim this January, my budget's officially tapped out.
What’s happening in 2025?
D23 is putting on a spectacular slate of signature events in 2025! In addition to the biennial return of Destination D23, fans can look forward to the D23 Spotlight Series, anniversary celebrations, and even more Disney magic.
This year’s Destination D23, taking place from August 29-31, 2025, will be bigger than ever! It’s moving to Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, which has double the space of previous years. Get ready for an unforgettable weekend packed with exclusive presentations from the Walt Disney Archives, Walt Disney Studios, and more. The weekend will also feature sneak peeks into upcoming Disney films, series, and park projects, along with interactive activations and shopping experiences.
D23 Spotlight Series
A new addition to the lineup, the D23 Spotlight Series will take place in both Orlando and Los Angeles. These in-person events will dive into unique Disney topics, such as celebrating the Walt Disney Archives’ 55th anniversary and a Disneyland retrospective presented by Director of the Walt Disney Archives, Becky Cline.
D23 Gold Theater
Fans can also enjoy pre-recorded digital presentations each month, starting in January 2025 with “Jolly Holiday: A D23 Musical Celebration of Richard M. Sherman”—featuring Disney Legends like John Stamos and Hayley Mills. Plus, more live programs are on the way, including “The Happiest Place on Earth: 70 Years of Disneyland” and the fan-favorite “Weird Disney”.
More events to look forward to
In addition to the major event in August, D23 will continue to offer year-round official tours of the Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California—giving Gold Members rare access to iconic locations. Plus, there’s a special Walt Disney’s Los Angeles Tour in 2025 that will take fans to the places Walt Disney himself frequented in Southern California. Talk about a bucket list item!
D23 will also celebrate milestone anniversaries of beloved Disney classics in 2025, including:
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Disneyland’s 70th anniversary
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Home Alone’s 35th anniversary
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Toy Story’s 30th anniversary
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The Emperor’s New Groove’s 25th anniversary
Plus, don’t miss other fun events throughout the year like:
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D23 Night with the Anaheim Ducks at the Honda Center on March 23, 2025
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D23 Day at Angel Stadium on May 25, 2025
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And more advance screenings of select Disney films and series
😢 But I’m not going (this time…)
Yes, it stings. But Destination D23 is firmly pinned on my bucket list. Someday, I’ll be sitting front row with churros in hand, gasping at surprise trailers and exclusive reveals like the proud fan I am. Until then, I’ll be following every update, and every backstage tidbit I can find—possibly in pajamas, definitely with popcorn.
Final thoughts
Whether you're attending in person or joining me in spirit, Destination D23 2025 is shaping up to be the most magical fan event yet. It’s where Disney shows us what’s next—and gives us just enough pixie dust to keep dreaming.
So, who's packing their ears and heading to Orlando this August? And if you are going… please say hi to Kuzco for me. And maybe smuggle back a limited-edition pin? Pretty please?
PS: If you're a Disney superfan like me and you've also never been to D23, tell me—what would be your dream panel? Mine? “Disney Parks: Secret Projects They Almost Built (but Didn’t)”—with a surprise appearance by Figment.
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