2025 Destination D23 Schedule Released

Disney fans get ready, because we may be getting more information on advancements and enhancements coming to the Disney Parks! D23 is more than just a fan club; it's the official community for Disney fans, a place where the magic of Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, Marvel, and many more universes are celebrated. The name "D23" is a nod to the year 1923, when Walt Disney founded the Walt Disney Studio. Every other year, D23 hosts a massive, multi-day convention in Anaheim, California, known as the D23 Expo. This is the marquee event where Disney typically makes its biggest announcements about upcoming movies, theme park attractions, and new projects.

On the "off-years," when the Expo is not held, D23 hosts a smaller, more intimate event called Destination D23. Held at Walt Disney World in Orlando, this event has traditionally been a deep dive into Disney history, archives, and nostalgic topics. This year, Destination D23 is taking place from August 29-31 at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort, and the recently released schedule confirms that it is returning to its historical and "niche" roots. The absence of a dedicated "Disney Experiences Showcase" suggests that major theme park news will likely not be a central focus, allowing the event to truly celebrate the rich legacy of The Walt Disney Company.

Destination D23 Full Panel Schedule: A Look Back and a Celebration of the Classics

The event kicks off with a shopping day on Friday, August 29th, with the main presentations taking place over the weekend. Here’s a look at the full panel schedule, outlining a journey through Disney's storied past and beloved animated classics.

Saturday, August 30

The first day is packed with a mix of cinematic showcases, deep dives into Disney history, and lighthearted fun.

• 9:00 AM: The day begins with a welcome session of music and magic.

• 9:15 AM: The Walt Disney Studios Showcase will offer an exclusive look at upcoming films, though the focus is expected to be more on the cinematic side rather than theme parks.

• 10:55 AM: The Walt Disney Archives takes the stage to celebrate the 80th anniversary of The Three Caballeros in the first of three scheduled segments.

• 11:05 AM: X Atencio: The Untold Story of a Disney Legend promises a fascinating look into the life of the man behind the iconic lyrics for Pirates of the Caribbean and The Haunted Mansion.

• 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM: The lunch break includes special trivia and a message from Ravensburger about the Lorcana trading card game.

• 2:00 PM: Get ready to laugh and doodle with the creators of Phineas and Ferb, Dan Povenmire and Jeff “Swampy” Marsh.

• 3:00 PM: Creating the Happiest Place on Earth will feature a discussion on the legacy of Disneyland in honor of its 70th anniversary.

• 4:30 PM: A panel celebrating the 25th anniversary of The Emperor's New Groove promises a "lever-age" of fun and behind-the-scenes stories.

• 8:00 PM: The day concludes with the exclusive after-hours D23 Kuzcotopia Night at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, a splashy celebration of The Emperor's New Groove with complimentary snacks, photo ops, and more.

Sunday, August 31

Day two continues the focus on cherished classics and the people who brought them to life.

• 9:05 AM: Disney Villains: Icons of Evil is a must-see for fans of Disney’s most mischievous characters, with creative minds sharing how villains are brought to life in Disney Experiences.

• 9:50 AM: Fans of The Little Mermaid will want to be "part of their world" as Disney Legend Jodi Benson (voice of Ariel) and co-director Ron Clements share stories from their work together.

• 10:20 AM: The Disney Family Legacy with Roy P. Disney offers a rare and intimate look into the Disney family, with personal stories and photos shared by Walt’s grand-nephew.

• 2:00 PM: Stay Tuned: You’re Watching Disney Channel is a nostalgic trip with fan-favorite Disney Channel stars, celebrating the iconic series and DCOMs that defined a generation.

• 3:25 PM: Get ready for "30 stand out years" with director Kevin Lima and Disney Legend Bill Farmer in the panel celebrating the fandom of A Goofy Movie.

• 4:10 PM: The weekend’s events wrap up with a spectacular Disney ‘80s-’90s Celebration in Concert, a musical mash-up presented by Disney+.

A Return to the Magic of History

While some fans may be disappointed by the lack of a major theme park announcement panel, this year’s Destination D23 is shaping up to be a true celebration of Disney's creative legacy. From the deep dives into the Walt Disney Archives to conversations with Legends and celebrations of classic films, the itinerary is a testament to the company's rich and storied history. This focus on nostalgia and heritage distinguishes Destination D23 from the main Expo, offering a unique experience for those who appreciate the foundational elements of Disney magic.

This weekend promises to be a treasure trove of insider stories, rare glimpses, and nostalgic moments. Whether you’re a fan of classic animation, the behind-the-scenes magic of Imagineering, or simply want to revel in the history of the company, this year’s Destination D23 looks like the perfect event to simply sit back, relax, and celebrate the worlds of Disney.