Destination D23 Report Card Review

Destination D23 has come to an end but our imagination continues to run wild... — Josh D’Amaro on stage at Destination D23

Destination D23 Report Card Review

The whirlwind weekend might be over, but we’re not done geeking out over what the Walt Disney Company has in the pipeline. Think new rides, awesome experiences, high-tech wizardry, and eco-friendly vibes – we just returned from Destination D23 and got the scoop on all the cool stuff Disney’s cooking up for its fans around the world.

D23 is to Disney what the State of the Union address is to the United States government. Just as the State of the Union is a pivotal moment when the President addresses the nation, laying out their vision and plans for the country’s future, D23 serves as Disney’s platform to connect with its devoted fanbase and share its grand vision for the magical world it creates.

Both events are a showcase of leadership, innovation, and the power of storytelling. While the State of the Union shapes the nation’s path, D23 shapes the enchanting dreams and experiences that continue to capture hearts around the world. From what we learned this weekend, in my opinion the state of the union is strong.

Destination D23 gave the Muppets a lot of love... — Josh D’Amaro took the stage with some help from the Muppets

As the Walt Disney Company reflects on its historic journey, celebrating a century of enchantment, we find ourselves captivated by the enduring magic it has woven into our lives. For a hundred years, this iconic company has kindled our imaginations, touched our hearts, and transported us to realms where dreams come true.

From the whimsical world of animation to the mesmerizing wonders of theme parks, Disney’s legacy has left an indelible mark on generations of dreamers, uniting us in a shared belief that anything is possible with a dash of pixie dust and a sprinkle of imagination. At its very core, this year’s D23 event remind us why we fell in love with Disney.

Disney gave the audience a 10 minute look at the upcoming film Disney's Wish — © 2023 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

This year’s Destination D23 Expo was a spectacular showcase of Disney’s pageantry, where the magic of imagination took center stage. Disney envisioned “Blue Skies” last year in Anaheim, and we learned that one of those ideas has progressed in a major way. Dinoland USA will soon give way to “tropical americas.” This biodiverse region of the world will house new Encanto and Indiana Jones inspired attractions. While there is a ways to go before these concepts are realized, the promises of last year continue to move forward to bring new life to Animal Kingdom.

Additionally Disney invited us to dream on a scale of epic proportions when we think of what could lie “Beyond Big Thunder Mountain.” Bruce Vaughn, Chief Creative Officer at Walt Disney Imagineering invited us all to think in scale of things like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Pandora – The World of Avatar. While specifics remain unclear, the size and scope of Magic Kingdom’s expansion has us excited for the future and looking towards next year’s expo for more details.

Dinoland will give way to "Tropical Americas" — Artist Concept of a reimagined Dinoland USA from Disney’s Animal Kingdom featuring Encanto and Indiana Jones

Disney delivered on other promises from D23 Expo 2022, most notably Figment at EPCOT, a return of Happily Ever After, the Hatbox Ghost, and more. Projects like Tron Lightcycle Power Run and Moana Journey of Water have augmented their respective parks and Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will invigorate Frontierland in Disneyland and Disney World in the near future. Avengers Campus is also adding an exciting new ride, as we learned more specifics about the “King Thanos” concept from 2022. We have new night time spectaculars, new shows, and exciting new character meet and greets coming to Walt Disney World and Disneyland in the near future.

International parks are booming adding attractions, dining and resorts all around the world. Beloved classics like Frozen, Tangled, Zootopia, and Peter Pan are being added in Paris, Shanghai and Japan. We even learned of surprises like a brand new “Pirates” tavern at the Magic Kingdom. A one of a kind expansion that is growing the story of the Pirates of the Caribbean. Test Track is getting some love, as Disney collaborates with Chevrolet to bring changes to this thrilling attraction.

Updates to "King Thanos" project at Disneyland's Avengers Campus

Years ago many speculated that the “Country Bears” were on the path to extinction, however we learned that Country Bear Jamboree has a lot more music in store for the guests of Magic Kingdom. New Music and a new act are on the way, so that generations of fans can build new memories with these beloved animatronics. While I spent a minute lamenting the changing of a classic, I was reminded by Disneyland’s creator that, “Disneyland will never be completed. It will continue to grow as long as there is imagination left in the world.”

This year’s Destination D23 gave our community a chance to pause look back on a challenging journey we’ve all been on together. Throughout it all, countless Disney enthusiasts found comfort in theme parks, attractions, movies, and music. Despite the difficulties and obstacles, Disney has been a source of hope for millions during tough times, and I believe we’ve emerged from it all as a united community.

What I liked most about this year’s expo was how it made me feel both nostalgic and excited about what’s coming up in the next ten years. Disney has followed through on many of the promises from last year’s expo in Anaheim; and they’re not slowing down with a multitude of new projects and even bigger investments in the parks. If you’re a Disney Parks fan, it’s a really exciting time, and I’m leaving this weekend super pumped about what’s in store for Disney Parks and Entertainment. Thanks to Disney for an awesome weekend, and we’ll see you soon in Anaheim!

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