Disney Parks and Resorts to Celebrate 60 Years of Innovation at D23 EXPO; Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights Returns for the Holidays

Disney Parks and Resorts to Celebrate 60 Years of Innovation at D23 EXPO:

Three weeks from today, D23 EXPO 2015 kicks off at the Anaheim Convention Center. Today, D23 and Disney Parks and Resorts released a sneak peak of what they will be showing off during the expo. Disney Parks and Resorts will be celebrating 60 years of innovation while showing off sneak peaks of the upcoming Shanghai Disneyland that opens next year and the Avatar Project of Pandora opening in Disney World's Animal Kingdom. In the release from D23, nothing has been mentioned about the rumored expansions in Disney World's Hollywood Studios or on the west coast in Disneyland and Disney California Adventure which is rumored to include Star Wars.

In addition to the previously announced the Hall D23 presentation, fans will get the opportunity to hear from Disney executives, imagineers, designers, Disney Legends, and other involved with various projects for Disney Parks and Resorts in five engaging panels throughout the weekend. Here is an over view:

On the Show Floor:

Located in Hall C, the Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Pavilion is a 12,500-square-foot exhibit that gives guests a glimpse of the creative process in designing and building Shanghai Disney Resort, along with a preview of the Avatar project coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

In a celebratory exhibit on Shanghai Disney Resort, maquettes, artist illustrations, and media clips capture the designers’ journey as the resort comes to life. Guests can learn about the show design process and discover the tradition and innovation infused into the resort.

Guests will also get an in-depth look at Pandora when they explore what’s to come for the AVATAR project, with models, images, and exhibits on display.

Additionally, Mickey’s of Glendale, the Imagineering-exclusive merchandise store, will open an outpost at the Pavilion where guests will have the opportunity to purchase merchandise specially designed for D23 EXPO 2015.

Presentations and Panels:

Friday, August 14
1:30–2:30 p.m.         60 Years of Disney Parks Merchandise (Stage 28)

Join our talented Disney Design Group artists, merchandisers, and special guests as they take you from concept to reality with behind-the-scenes storytelling about classic Disney souvenirs and how they have become tangible lasting memories. Guests will get a first look at some of the exciting new merchandise coming to Disney parks.

3:15–4:15 p.m.         Safari So Good—60 Years of the World Famous Jungle Cruise (Stage 23)

Skippers from throughout the years reflect on their experiences at the Jungle Cruise, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary as one of Disneyland’s opening-day attractions. They will also discuss changes to the attraction over the years including recent holiday overlays and other additions.

5–7 p.m.         Imagineering 60 Years of Disneyland (Stage 23)

In a two-part panel discussion about Disneyland with Disney Legends and current Imagineers, panelists will discuss how it all began, what it took to carry on Walt Disney’s legacy, and how Imagineers are continuing to deliver magic well into the future. The panel is moderated by Academy Award®- and Emmy®-nominated filmmaker Leslie Iwerks, who will present a new trailer from her forthcoming documentary about Walt Disney Imagineering.

Sunday, August 16
10–11 a.m.         Disney Kingdoms (Stage 28)

Guests will learn about Disney Kingdoms, a joint collaboration between Marvel Comics and Walt Disney Imagineering. Guests will hear how these popular comic book series got started and discover the creators and theme park inspirations behind these popular titles, including Seekers of the Weird, Figment, and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.

3–4 p.m.         Experience the World with Disney: Adventures by Disney, Aulani, Disney Cruise Line, and Disney Vacation Club (Stage 28)

This panel will provide a behind-the-scenes glimpse into how Disney is creating new vacation experiences for families all around the world. The first 400 guests in attendance will get a D23 EXPO-exclusive pin set.

Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights Returning for the Holidays:

The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights will be returning to Disney's Hollywood Studios for the holidays this year. Among rumors, due to the rumored expansion of Hollywood Studios, the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights is a wonderful view that takes place in the Streets of America. This years spectacle will run November 6, 2015 through January 3, 2016.