Disney has unveiled a major wave of new details for D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event 2026, giving fans a much clearer picture of what to expect when the event returns to Anaheim from 14th–16th August 2026.
From ticket pricing and entry systems to headline showcases and the newly revealed Disney Legends class, this year’s event is shaping up to be one of the most structured and accessible D23 gatherings yet.
Disney Legends Class of 2026 revealed
As always, one of the emotional centrepieces of D23 will be the Disney Legends ceremony, which honours individuals who have made a lasting impact on the company’s legacy.
The 2026 class celebrates a mix of talent across film, television, animation, Imagineering, music and leadership, continuing the tradition of recognising both on-screen stars and behind-the-scenes creatives.
The ceremony itself will once again be a major marquee event of the weekend, typically staged at the Honda Center and serving as a highlight moment that brings together fans and Disney’s most influential figures.
Tickets go on sale: pricing and pass options
Disney has confirmed that tickets will go on sale beginning 2nd April for most D23 Gold Members, following an earlier presale window for select members.
This year introduces a wider range of ticket options designed to make the event more flexible:
- D23 Fan Pass (Convention Center only)
- From $49 (Afternoon Only)
- $99 (1-day)
- $297 (3-day)
- D23 Ultimate Fan Pass
- Includes Convention Center + Honda Center showcases
- From $99 (1-day) / $297 (3-day)
- D23 Ultimate Preferred Fan Pass
- Premium seating for showcases + full access
- $1,299–$2,599 depending on seating tier
Notably, the introduction of an afternoon-only ticket marks a shift toward more accessible entry options, allowing fans to attend without committing to full-day access.
Hours, entry system and reservations explained
Operational details for 2026 show a more structured approach to crowd flow and scheduling.
- Convention Center hours:
- 9:00am – 8:00pm (Friday to Sunday)
- Afternoon-only entry begins later in the day
- Evening showcase events take place at the Honda Center
The event will also continue using reservation-style systems for certain experiences, helping manage demand for popular panels, merchandise, and limited-capacity offerings.
Security and logistics have also been refined, with separate entry rules between venues and improved transport options, including parking and shuttles between locations.
Disney Experiences Showcase confirmed
One of the most anticipated presentations of the weekend—the Disney Experiences Showcase—will take place:
- Saturday, 15th August 2026
- 7:00pm (PT)
- Honda Center
This showcase traditionally focuses on Disney Parks, cruise lines, and global experiences, often delivering major announcements about new attractions, lands, and future expansions.
Access to this presentation will require either an Ultimate Fan Pass or a qualifying ticket with showcase access.
A bigger, week-long celebration
While the main event runs across three days, D23 2026 is expanding into a broader, city-wide celebration:
- D23 Day at Disneyland Resort (13th August)
- D23 Night at Angel Stadium (12th August)
- Special exhibits, fan events, and themed experiences across Anaheim
This extended format continues Disney’s push to transform D23 into more than just a convention—turning it into a full destination experience for fans.
Final thoughts
With expanded ticket tiers, clearer scheduling, and major programming already confirmed, D23 2026 is positioning itself as the most accessible and structured version of the event to date.
Between the emotional draw of the Disney Legends ceremony, the high-profile showcases, and a growing slate of city-wide experiences, the 2026 edition looks set to deliver both scale and variety—while giving fans more ways than ever to tailor their experience.