Disney enthusiasts, get ready for some significant changes at this year’s D23 Expo! The Walt Disney Company has just announced that the Disney Parks announcement panel, a highly-anticipated segment, will not be accessible to the general public. This surprising move marks a first in the event’s history and has left fans buzzing with questions.
Held annually in Anaheim, California, D23 has traditionally been the go-to event where Disney unveils its upcoming ventures, including everything from Marvel and Star Wars updates to groundbreaking theme park innovations. The 2024 edition, set to begin on August 9, promises to be no different—except this time, fans will find it harder to catch all the thrills unless they’re physically present.
Disney has a history of using D23 to make jaw-dropping announcements. Just look back at 2022, when they hinted at an overhaul of DinoLand U.S.A. in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This project was hyped again in 2023, revealing a South America-inspired land themed around Disney’s “Encanto” and a possible Indiana Jones ride to replace DINOSAUR. As the countdown to D23 2024 ticks away, fans are keenly awaiting updates on these promises. Yet the new live stream restrictions may challenge their usual ways of staying in the loop. Only Disney cast members will have access to the live stream, forcing the rest of us to await post-event updates and reports.
Adding more intrigue, Disney’s parks panel—dubbed “Horizons: Disney Experiences Showcase”—will be led by Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro on August 10. With a wealth of projects potentially on the docket, including updates on a rumored Marvel “E-ticket” ride, a revamp of Journey Into Imagination with Figment, and the much-anticipated Disneyland Avatar land, this panel is expected to be a high point of the expo. However, with no public live stream, the mystery deepens on how these announcements will be shared with the wider audience.
The D23 event will continue through August 11, featuring main attractions at the Anaheim Convention Center and additional panels at the Honda Center. Each panel will highlight different aspects of Disney’s vast empire, from its entertainment brands like Marvel and Pixar to exclusive theme park news.
Will you be attending D23 this year? Which announcements are you most excited about? Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments below. And don’t forget to share this story with fellow Disney fans!
Source: Inside the Magic
