ANAHEIM, Calif.—Disney is kicking off its 100th anniversary early with the annual D23 Expo fan event scheduled for Sept. 9 to 11.
The weekend event, to be held at the Anaheim Convention Center, will celebrate Disney’s 100th anniversary ahead of 2023 by hosting 50 shows, presentations, and panels, according to MiceChat.
The history of the expo stems from the original D23 Fan Club established in 2009. D23 was created with the intention to bring more “magic” into Disney fans’ experience by providing exclusive content and special event offerings, according to the fan club’s official website.
One must be a D23 member to purchase tickets for this year’s expo. Prospective expo participants can join the fan club for free—with the option of upgrading to a paid membership for additional benefits and expo discounts.
Leading up to the three-day convention, Disney fanatics can participate in the Mousequerade costume contest open for entry between Feb. 28 to April 1.
Participants are encouraged to create a unique costume either individually or in groups. Ten finalists will be selected to show off their designs at the September expo.
In the past, D23 participants have been surprised by the appearances of their favorite Disney celebrities while also being the first to hear about upcoming Disney projects.
D23 stands for Disney 1923, the year when the Walt Disney Company arrived in California, according to the D23 website.
Tickets for the event will go on sale Jan. 20.
