Disney fans heading to Anaheim this August have even more to look forward to before D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event officially begins. On 13th August 2026, Disneyland Resort will once again host D23 Day, transforming both theme parks into a celebration of Disney storytelling with exclusive entertainment, limited-edition merchandise, unique character appearances and special food offerings.
Open to all guests with valid theme park admission and a park reservation, the one-day event serves as the perfect kickoff to the three-day D23 fan convention, which takes place from 14th to 16th August at the Anaheim Convention Centre and Honda Center.
Complimentary Keepsakes
Guests arriving at Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure when the parks open will receive a complimentary D23-themed Mickey Mouse ear hat and commemorative guide, while supplies last. These giveaways have become one of the most sought-after souvenirs of D23 Day and are expected to be popular once again this year.
Exclusive Entertainment
A highlight of the celebration is the Disney Legends Cavalcade at Disneyland Park. Beginning at 1:30 p.m., the parade travels down Main Street, U.S.A., accompanied by the Disneyland Band, Disney Legends and 23 beloved Disney characters.
Throughout the day, guests can also enjoy:
- Special Disney character encounters, including Merlin and the Blue Fairy.
- Stitch’s Interplanetary Beach Party Bash at Tomorrowland Terrace from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- The Disney+ Hulu Throwbacks Dance Party from 7:30 p.m. until 11:30 p.m.
- D23-themed photo locations across Disneyland Resort.
- Limited-time Magic Shots and complimentary Disney PhotoPass digital downloads for photos taken on the day.
Disney Princess Concert Experience
One of the biggest additions for 2026 is Disney Princess: The Ultimate Concert Celebration at Disney California Adventure.
The live performance features music inspired by Disney Princess stories and will take place at 8:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. Attendance is limited and requires joining a virtual queue through the Disneyland app from midday on 13th August. Guests selected through the virtual queue must also collect a wristband before the evening performance.
Limited-Time Merchandise
Collectors will find plenty of exclusive items available throughout the resort, including:
- D23 Day logo apparel, pins and magnets.
- The new Disneylandia collection created in collaboration with Southern California lifestyle brand Viva La Bonita.
- A collection celebrating the 30th anniversary of The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
- Alice in Wonderland 75th anniversary merchandise.
- Commemorative D23 medallions available individually or as a complete set.
Special Food and Collectibles
Food and merchandise lovers can also look forward to several limited-time offerings, including:
- The Haunted Mansion Hatbox Ghost Popcorn Bucket.
- A Sorcerer Apprentice Mickey Cake Pop.
- Exclusive desserts and beverages throughout Downtown Disney from 1st to 16th August.
Downtown Disney Offers
From 1st to 16th August, D23 Gold Members and D23 Event attendees can take advantage of exclusive discounts and promotions at select Downtown Disney locations, including restaurants, shops and entertainment venues.
Even guests who are not attending the convention can enjoy a range of limited-time food and beverage offerings available throughout the district during the celebration.
The Perfect Start to D23
D23 Day has quickly become a tradition for Disney fans visiting Anaheim, blending exclusive experiences with the atmosphere of Disneyland Resort before the main convention begins. Whether visitors are hoping to collect commemorative merchandise, meet rare characters, enjoy special entertainment or simply celebrate alongside fellow Disney enthusiasts, the event offers a unique way to begin one of Disney’s biggest fan weekends of the year.