Since 1970, the Walt Disney Archives has safeguarded Disney’s legacy. For 55 years, they’ve preserved decades of creative history and magical memories. In 2025, the Archives mark this milestone with a lineup of events, exhibitions, and digital surprises that invite fans everywhere to join the fun.
Beginning June 1, fans can enjoy exclusive D23 experiences, behind-the-scenes presentations, and immersive exhibitions. These activities highlight the stories and artifacts that form the heart of Disney’s enduring magic
Special Events and Anniversary Highlights
The D23 Spotlight Series kicks off with two special events titled Walt Disney Archives 55th Anniversary Celebration:
- June 1 at Grand Central Air Terminal in Glendale, California
- June 22 at AMC Disney Springs 24 in Orlando, Florida
These gatherings offer fans a rare opportunity to see how the Archives collect and protect Disney’s most iconic treasures. Hosted by Director Becky Cline and special guests, the sessions include presentations, panel discussions, and sneak peeks at upcoming projects.
A Walt Disney Archives 55th Anniversary Luncheon is scheduled for June 20 at Walt Disney World Resort. More details will be shared soon.
Traveling Exhibitions and Destination D23
In August, the Archives will return to Destination D23 at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort in Florida. This year’s theme, A Journey Around the Worlds of Disney, will include a new exhibit titled Charting the Course: Disney’s Global Stories & Inspirations, highlighting how global cultures inspire Disney storytelling.
The Archives’ major touring exhibits also continue around the world:
- Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume
Now through October 26, 2025 at South Carolina State Museum
- Disney100: The Exhibition
Now through June 1 at the K Museum of Contemporary Art, Seoul, South Korea
Now through October 5 at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, Paris, France
Each exhibit features rare costumes, props, concept art, and behind-the-scenes items, bringing the Archives’ vast collection to life for fans of all ages.
Presentations, Digital Events & Exclusive Content
The Archives team will also appear throughout the year across Disney Cruise Line sailings, D23 Gold Member virtual events, and more surprise engagements. Fans are encouraged to follow along for opportunities to connect with the team in person and online.
Subscribers to Disney twenty-three, D23’s quarterly publication, can look forward to exclusive stories, rarely seen photos, and fan-favorite features like “Ask the Walt Disney Archives” and “Down the Rabbit Hole.”
Digital Downloads and 55th Anniversary Logo
To kick things off, the Archives has released new downloadable mobile wallpapers featuring its commemorative 55th Anniversary logo and spotlighting iconic items from the collection:
- Mickey Mouse Plush Doll (1930)
- Cinderella’s Glass Slippers (2015)
- Hitchhiking Ghosts from Haunted Mansion (1971)
- BB-8 from Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019)
These and more are just the beginning of the year-long celebration that honors five and a half decades of preserving Disney’s unforgettable magic.
For full details and the original announcement, visit the official D23 Fan Site.
