As you may already know, last week was D23's (Disney's Official Fan Club) first ever Expo in Anaheim, California.  The event was touted as the "Ultimate Disney Fan Experience" and it kept true to its word.  I attended the all-day events on Thursday, September 10, and Saturday, September 12.  I'll definitely be posting more detailed information throughout the next couple of weeks, but I thought I'd do a quick post about my expo highlights. 

Thursday morning started off with a bang at the Bob Iger (President and CEO of Walt Disney Company) Presentation where (after surrendering cell phones, cameras, and photo ids) we were treated to an overview of what all of the facets of Disney ranging from Disney Parks, ABC, Disney Channel, Disney Studios and more are up to.  Iger also briefly mentioned how excited they are at Disney about the recent acquisition of Marvel Entertainment and how their commitment to quality and story telling make a perfect partnership.  We also were also lucky enough to preview the first 30 minutes of Disney's newest animated film: Disney's The Princess and the Frog, which looks as though it's bound to become a Disney classic.

The Disney's Legends Ceremony took place directly following the Bob Iger Presentation.  This is the first time the normally internal event has ever been held off Disney property or open to the public.  Ten new Disney Legends were inducted to the Disney Hall of Fame, including Harry Archinal,  Leota Toombs Thomas, Don Iwerks, Tony Anselmo, Bill Farmer, all four Golden Girls (Beatrice Arthur, Estelle Getty, Rue McClanahan, and Betty White), and Robin Williams.  It was a spectacular event.

On Saturday, Jay Rasulo presented at Imagineering the Future of Disney Parks.  With a focus on Fantasy, Adventure, Tomorrow, and New Frontiers, Rasulo unveiled new happenings at Walt Disney World®, Disney Cruise Line, Disneyland® Resort, and even Hong Kong Disneyland®.  Perhaps the most exciting part of the program for the crowd was when Darth Vader and about 60 storm troopers literally stormed the stage to object to the closing of Star Tours in Disneyland® Park in October 2010.  They were pacified when Rasulo announced that Star Tours II would be replacing the original attraction with never-been-done-before technology and a new story line.  That is slated to re-open in 2011 with a number of incredible attractions and events at the Disneyland® Resort.

Another highlight was definitely exploring the Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Pavilion.  Models of upcoming land and attractions, "live" animatronics, imagineers, and presentations were engaging, informative, and of course, entertaining.

More on these expo events and my other Disneyland® Resort adventures will be coming in the future, so check back for more detailed updates!  Or, book your own Disneyland® Resort adventure today and experience the magic for yourself.