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D23 Announces Lunch with Disney Legend Joe Rohde at California Grill
Disney fans will soon have the chance to sit down for lunch with one of Walt Disney Imagineering’s most recognizable creative minds. D23 has announced a special Lunch with Disney Legend Joe Rohde event coming to California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort on October 2, 2026.
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Rohde spent decades with Walt Disney Imagineering and played a major role in shaping attractions, lands, and experiences across Walt Disney World and beyond. During the event, guests will hear stories from his career, travels, and the creative process behind some of his most memorable work during a 45-minute moderated conversation.
The experience also includes a buffet lunch at California Grill, located atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort with sweeping views of Seven Seas Lagoon. Each attendee will also receive a signed copy of Rohde’s new book, “Floating Mountains: The Art of Imagining the Impossible.”
Tickets go on sale Friday, August 28. D23 Gold Members can purchase tickets beginning at 2 p.m. ET for $159 plus a $3 processing fee, while General Members can purchase beginning at 3 p.m. ET for $199 plus the same processing fee.
Guests attending the event should also take note of a few important logistical details. Parking will not be available at Disney’s Contemporary Resort specifically for the event. Attendees are being directed to park at the Transportation and Ticket Center and travel to the resort by bus or monorail. D23 is also asking guests not to bring additional personal items for Rohde to autograph and to refrain from requesting individual photos with him during the event.
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For longtime Disney Parks fans, getting the chance to hear directly from Joe Rohde over lunch at California Grill could make this one of the more unique D23 experiences of the year. With a signed book, meal, and conversation all included, we would not be surprised to see these tickets disappear faster than an Expedition Everest Yeti into the shadows.
If this event has you thinking about a Walt Disney World getaway, contact our partners at Get Away Today to help plan your next trip and maybe build a little extra time into the itinerary for some Disney history along the way.
