As the curtain rose on the second night of D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event in Anaheim, fans were treated to a sensational array of announcements and performances that only Disney can deliver. Josh D’Amaro, Chairman of Disney Experiences, set the stage with an ambitious vision that spans from the high seas to the digital universe. Hosted at the Anaheim Convention Center, the Disney Experiences Showcase brought together beloved franchises and introduced new realms and attractions set to enchant Disney fans worldwide.
The night was an electrifying blend of surprise celebrity guests and musical acts, featuring Meghan Trainor’s heartwarming performance of “Feed the Birds,” Shaboozey’s rendition of “Life Is a Highway,” and Rita Ora’s magical “Trust in Me.” D’Amaro revealed plans for a new era of Disney magic, including four additional cruise ships, immersive new lands themed around Monsters, Inc., Cars, Indiana Jones, Encanto, Avatar, The Lion King, and even the classic Disney Villains. Highlights include the first-ever Coco ride at Disney California Adventure, new nighttime parades like “Disney Starlight” at Magic Kingdom, and a spectacular Avatar experience at Disney California Adventure.
Disney Imagineers and creative leads took the stage to delve deeper into these forthcoming attractions. Fans learned that Disney’s Hollywood Studios will become home to a fully-fledged Monsters, Inc. land, complete with a suspended door vault coaster, while a new Cars-themed area is set to race into the Magic Kingdom. The announcement of a villains-themed land promises thrills and surprises where visitors can explore attractions, dining, and shopping inspired by some of Disney’s most infamous characters.
Adding a futuristic touch, D’Amaro unveiled a new collaboration with Epic Games, expanding Disney storytelling into the digital realm. A groundbreaking show featuring the first-ever Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney will debut at Disneyland, while Avengers fans can look forward to expanded experiences in California, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. Marvel’s central characters and new skins in Fortnite will create a vibrant intersection of gaming and storytelling.
Beyond the new attractions, D23 offered exclusive panels and exhibitions throughout the day, including a sneak peek at upcoming seasons of The Simpsons, Marvel’s animated series, and the highly anticipated Disney+ series Percy Jackson and the Olympians. Celebratory announcements and guest appearances kept the magic alive, making for an unforgettable experience.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on these exciting new developments. What new land or attraction are you most excited to visit? Share your thoughts in the comments below and don’t forget to share this article with fellow Disney enthusiasts!
Source: The Walt Disney Company