Disney's Devoted Fans Flock to D23 Convention in Anaheim

D23, the biennial convention for Disney fans, drew over 100,000 attendees to Anaheim's Convention Center in California. The event, which ran from August 14 to 16, is a showcase for the company's latest projects and announcements.

The convention featured three stages hosting a total of 60 themed panels, covering topics such as documentary-making and anniversary talks for Beauty and the Beast. There were also costume contests, immersive spaces dedicated to shows like Scrubs and The Simpsons, and pin-trading areas where individual pins can sell for up to $350.

The highlight of the convention was the marquee presentation each evening at the Honda Center, which drew around 13,000 attendees. On Friday, Disney revealed first looks at Frozen 3 and the next Star Wars film, as well as the announcement of a third Zootopia installment. Saturday focused on theme parks and cruise ships, with Disney unveiling a new Villains-themed land at its Orlando resort.

The convention also served as a platform for Disney employees to showcase their work and make themselves heard. Some employees demonstrated outside the convention center to demand better pay. The event has become an important opportunity for Disney's imagineers to explain what they do and satisfy fans' endless curiosity.