There’s nothing quite like the joy that Disney brings to its fans through their film, entertainment, and theme park attractions, and the D23 Expo is just another great way eager fans get to experience that magic. The convention takes place every two years in California and is a way for fans to come together and revel in exclusive perks, be the first to see sneak peaks from upcoming Disney projects, and be able to see major celebrities from their favourite franchises up close and personal.

Held in the Anaheim Convention Centre, the space boasts multiple massive tentpole attractions each day where various panels take place. As the convention kicked off on day one the must-see attraction on everyones check list was the Animation Panel where future projects like sequels to two major box-office hits are put on display, including Frozen 2 and everyones favourite superhero family, The Incredibes 2.

Day two’s hot spot of course centred around the Live Action Panel, and it was here that Disney showcased their upcoming live-action films including the Lion King, Mary Poppins’ Return starring Emily Blunt, the Nutcracker, and the very buzzed about A Wrinkle in Time, directed by Ava DuVernay (Selma) and features an all-star cast such as Reese Witherspoon, Chris Pine, Mindy Kaling, Gugu Mbatha-Raw and surely not least of all the extraordinary Oprah Winfrey.

Much like Comic Cons exhilarating surprise Star Wars concert in 2015, D23 also hosts exciting live performances which was what the final day of the convention was all about. It doesn’t get much better than listening to the amazing sounds of the great Alan Menkin, who throughout his career has composed for many famous Disney flicks including a few gems like Aladdin, and Beauty and the Beast.

At the end of the day D23 manages to excite the little kid in all of us. Whether it’s the dazzling concerts, the wondrous Star wars panels, or even not one but two parades that take place, if you wanted to feel what the magic of Disney is like up close than D23 is truly the convention for you.

Photography Credit: Marc Levy