The D23 Expo 2019 Disney Parks Panel is officially in the books—and what a weekend it was. The ultimate Disney fan event took over the Anaheim Convention Center with three jam-packed days of everything Disney: Star Wars, Marvel, Pixar, animation, films, parks, resorts, and of course, merchandise.
But for many fans, the most highly anticipated moment of the entire weekend was Sunday’s Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Sneak Peek panel, led by then-Chairman Bob Chapek. This session has become a staple at every D23 Expo, and 2019 delivered in a big way.
Walt Disney Word Epcot is about to begin a multi year transformation.. What’s going to change? Just about everything.
From a Reimagined Epcot to Star Wars Hotels and Marvel Adventures
Running nearly two hours, this year’s Disney Parks panel was loaded with exciting reveals from across the globe. We got new details on:
The complete reimagining of Epcot, including new neighborhoods, nighttime spectaculars, and the transformation of Spaceship Earth
The official name and updates for the Star Wars-themed hotel experience coming to Walt Disney World: Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser
Sneak peeks at the Avengers Campus coming to Disney California Adventure and Disneyland Paris
An exciting new collaboration with Cirque du Soleil for a Disney animation-inspired show at Disney Springs
Plus, much more—including first looks at Disney Cruise Line expansions, Hong Kong Disneyland enhancements, and upcoming resort transformations
Full Panel Video – The Big Moments You Don’t Want to Miss
I’ve edited the entire session down to highlight the biggest, most important moments, making sure you don’t miss a thing. This is your go-to recap of everything that was announced, teased, or revealed live on stage during the panel.
Epcot Transformation – What we know so far
D23 EXPO 2019 – The Ultimate Disney Fan Event – brings together all the worlds of Disney under one roof for three packed days of presentations, pavilions, experiences, concerts, sneak peeks, shopping, and more. The event, which takes place August 23 – 25 at the Anaheim Convention Center, provides fans with unprecedented access to Disney films, television, games, theme parks, and celebrities. (The Walt Disney Company/Image Group LA) JORDAN FISHER
The Spider-Man attraction is going to be a key part of the Marvel’s Avengers Campus Super Heroes Lands coming to Walt Disney California Adventure,
Illuminations Reflections of Earth will have it’s final performance September 30th 2019
Walt Disney Imagineering presents the Epcot Experience in the Odyssey Events Pavilion. They will discover engaging and interactive exhibits that showcase the relentless innovation, energy and excitement driving the park’s future throughout this unprecedented period of transformation.
◦As guests exit Spaceship Earth, they will discover a breathtaking new view of World Showcase from Dreamers Point. World Celebration will also feature a new statue celebrating the legacy of the original dreamer, Walt Disney, plus beautiful natural environments and global design elements filled with Disney magic and surprises, including a wishing tree in an enchanted forest and a story fountain celebrating the power and music of iconic Disney storytelling.
◦A new pavilion will be the perfect place for live events, and the home base for Epcot’s signature festivals. It will provide a stunning elevated view of the entire park and an ideal spot to witness Epcot’s nighttime spectacular. This beautiful three-level structure will have one of the most remarkable architectural designs at any Disney park, featuring a plaza level, a middle expo level, and a park that sits in the sky on the top level.
As guests exit Spaceship Earth, they will discover a breathtaking new view of World Showcase from Dreamers Point. World Celebration will also feature a new statue celebrating the legacy of the original dreamer, Walt Disney, plus beautiful natural environments and global design elements filled with Disney magic and surprises, including a wishing tree in an enchanted forest and a story fountain celebrating the power and music of iconic Disney storytelling.
Journey of Water, Inspired by “Moana” will be the first experience inspired by the hit Walt Disney Animation Studios film. This lush exploration trail will invite guests to meet and play with magical, living water. The water will have a life of its own – just like Moana’s friend, the ocean – and guests will learn about the importance of the natural water cycle.
NEW RATAOUILLE ATTRACTION COMING TO EPCOT
NEW RATAOUILLE ATTRACTION COMING TO EPCOT
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind will be the first “other-world” showcase pavilion at Epcot. The attraction will feature a new storytelling coaster that rotates to focus guests on the action, and will include the first reverse launch on a Disney coaster. (Disney/Marvel)
Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind
Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind
Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind
The PLAY! pavilion at Epcot will open in time for the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort
The PLAY! pavilion at Epcot will open in time for the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort
The PLAY! pavilion at Epcot will open in time for the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort
The PLAY! pavilion at Epcot will open in time for the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort
The PLAY! pavilion at Epcot will open in time for the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort. In this digital metropolis, guests will discover an interactive city bursting with games, activities and experiences that connect them with friends, family and beloved Disney characters both real and virtual like never before. (Disney)
D23 Expo Star Wars Galactic Cruiser
Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida will invite guests aboard the Halcyon, a starcruiser known throughout the galaxy for its impeccable service and exotic destinations. Onboard, they will stay in well-appointed cabins, experience onboard dining, make a planet-side excursion to Black Spire Outpost on Batuu, and much more. (Disney)
