Here is the official press release detailing the new discounts and added benefits.

BURBANK, Calif. – January 24, 2012 – From Broadway to Hollywood, from the Big Easy to the Aloha State, D23: The Official Disney Fan Club has added a bevy of new benefits and special discounts to bring new ways for its members to save when shopping, traveling, dining, entertaining… even decorating their homes.

From Disney collectibles to accommodations near the Disneyland Resort, D23’s most recently added special discounts include:

• From Thomas Kinkade, the Painter of Light™, 20% off a D23 Member’s entire order at ThomasKinkade.com, including art from the Disney Dreams Collection

• A 10% discount off of services at Niki Bryan Spas, meaning D23 Members can save at all spa locations at Disney Parks in the United States

• Special D23 rates at the famed El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, including its upcoming presentation of Disney’s classic Lady and the Tramp

• D23 Member discounts at House of Blues locations at both the Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort

• $5 discount off any adult, child or senior ticket to the Johnson Space Center in Houston, an official NASA Visitor Center

• 20% off any single admission ticket to the famed Miami Science Museum

• From Howard Johnson Anaheim, just across the street from Disneyland Resort, 15% off an entire stay

• At LittleMissMatched, D23 Members receive 15% off all Disney merchandise online and in-store, including Downtown Disney locations at Disneyland and Walt Disney World

• For fashion-conscious Disney fans, 10% off of purchases made at the Apricot Lane Boutique at Downtown Disney Anaheim

• $23 off purchases of $149 or more in-store or online at collectibles boutique Charming Shoppe in Orange County, Calif.

• Savings of 20% from Fantagraphics Books, which publishes hardcover versions of classic Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck comics

In addition to these special discounts, Disney Vacation Club® — Disney’s innovative approach to vacation ownership since 1991 — is celebrating the opening of Aulani, Disney Vacation Club Villas in Ko Olina, Hawai‘i, with a special limited-time offer.  Starting February 1, 2012, D23 Members have an exclusive opportunity to receive a vintage work of custom-matted art from Walt Disney’s 1937 animated short “Hawaiian Holiday” by simply learning more about the magic of Disney Vacation Club membership by phone.

The newest D23 Member discounts and offers are in addition to ongoing special deals, a full list of which can be found online at http://d23.disney.go.com/Discounts/. Continuing D23 Member offers also include:

• Special pricing on the ever-popular Mary Poppins on Broadway, with orchestra-seat pricing starting at just $67 for D23 Members

• Two ways to save on admission to the renowned Madame Tussauds in Hollywood, just across the street from the El Capitan Theatre; save $5 per ticket by or buy one adult ticket and get a child’s ticket for free

• A 10% discount on purchases at Two Scoops Ice Cream Parlor in Ko Olina, just down the street from Disney’s Aulani resort

• From and to virtually any airport in the country, 10% off all services offered by SuperShuttle, including its ExecuCar

private sedan service

• A 15% savings on all video game catalog titles and select hardware from game publisher THQ

• A savings of 10% at all Ralph Brennan restaurants in New Orleans and Metairie, La., including Red Fish Grill, Ralphs on the Park and Café NOMA, as well as Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen at Downtown Disney Anaheim

• 20% off all purchases made online at the ABC Store

• A savings of 20% on purchases made at Brookstone.com

This is just a sample of available the D23 Member discounts and offers–with more coming throughout 2012, saving members literally hundreds of dollars a year.

For Disney fans everywhere, becoming a D23 Member as simple as visiting www.Disney.com/D23 and selecting from a Gold or Silver D23 Membership.  Gold D23 Membership ($74.99 a year) offers a one-year subscription (four issues) to the glossy,award-winning Disney twenty-three magazine, plus four special, collectible gifts — unique surprises that accompany every issue of Disney twenty-three.

All new and renewing D23 Members, including Silver D23 Members ($34.99 a year), also receive a member-exclusive gift from the Walt Disney Archives Collection, and specially priced admission to the bi-annual D23 Expo, the largest Disney fan event in the world.

D23 Members can take advantage of the Official Disney Fan Club’s ever-increasing member benefits and offers, have full access to the D23 website (www.Disney.com/D23), and receive exclusive invitations to special, member-only events including private tours of The Walt Disney Studios and the Walt Disney Archives; D23-exclusive celebrations at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts; and movie screenings of classic Disney films.

The rest of this post is from the official press release. New benefits and savings include:

• $23 off orders of $149 or more at online retailer Brookstone.com

• 15% savings on video game entertainment from THQ, including the popular uDraw GameTablet

• A 10% discount on services offered by SuperShuttle and ExecuCar nationwide, including service to Southern California and Central Florida airports

• Special savings on admission to such popular Southern California attractions as:
  - The IMAX Theater at the California Science Center in Los Angeles
  - Madame Tussauds Hollywood
  - The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum and the Richard Nixon Library

• A cool 10% off purchases at Two Scoops Ice Cream Parlor in Ko’olina, Hawaii, close to the brand-new Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa

• Savings of 10% on a Ride-Along or Driving Experience at Richard Petty Driving Experience at Walt Disney World® Speedway in Florida

• At Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, save $10 on any purchase of $50 or more

These new offers join a wide of range continuing benefits and cost-saving deals that are available to all members of D23, including:

• A 10% discount on services at all Mandara Spa locations worldwide, including spas at the Disneyland® and Walt Disney World Resorts

• D23-exclusive pricing and offers for tickets to Mary Poppins on Broadway and The Lion King in Las Vegas

• D23 Member offers from ESPN Zone in Anaheim and The House of Blues at the Walt Disney World Resort

• D23 Member pricing at ESPN’s upcoming 76 Classic men’s basketball NCAA tournament in Anaheim

• Savings of 20% on items purchased at the ABC TV Online Store

• Plus a host of other special D23 Member discounts, offers and benefits.

Full details regarding D23 Member benefits and special offers – which can save members hundreds of dollars a year – can be found at www.Disney.com/D23.

“D23 is a fantastic way for our fans to experience everything Disney has to offer – and we also want it to be a tremendous value to all of our members every day of the year,” said Steven Clark, head of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club. “From where they live, to where they travel and shop, we are excited to be bringing these opportunities to our members and to expand our benefits.”

D23 offers two levels of membership, Gold ($74.99 a year) and Silver ($34.99 a year).  All D23 Members can take advantage of the Official Disney Fan Club’s ever-increasing member benefits and offers.

Gold D23 Members receive a one-year subscription (four issues) to the glossy, award-winning Disney twenty-three magazine, which presents an in-depth view of Disney’s amazing heritage and exciting new creations and projects.

In addition to having Disney twenty-three delivered directly to their home in protective packaging, Gold-level D23 Members also receive four special, collectible gifts every year, each one a surprise and sent with every issue of Disney twenty-three.

All new and renewing D23 Members also receive a member-exclusive gift from The Walt Disney Archives Collection, and specially priced admission to the bi-annual D23 Expo, the largest Disney fan event in the world.

D23 Members also have full access to the D23 website – located at www.Disney.com/D23 – and receive exclusive invitations to attend special events created by D23 that are available only to its members.

D23’s ongoing special events included private tours of The Walt Disney Studios and the Walt Disney Archives; D23-exclusive celebrations at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts; and member-only movie screenings of classic Disney films.

The Enchanted Storybook Castle is going to be the largest and most immersive castle at any Disney park around the world and it will be the first castle not dedicated to a specific princess because it will represent all of them. Inside, guests will be able to explore the multi-level castle, which will feature a princess meet and greet, the first ever Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique princess makeover experience inside a castle and Once Upon a Time Adventure, a large-scale, walk-through experience. Also for the first time, the castle will be part of a boat ride attraction that will be one of the anchor experiences of Fantasyland.

Below is a 3D video of what the castle will look like and some concept art as well.

Here is the official press release:

BURBANK, Calif. – August 9, 2011 – Exclusively at Disney’s D23 Expo August 19-21 at the Anaheim Convention Center, Disney film fans will go behind the scenes to explore the exciting roster of projects on the horizon at The Walt Disney Studios, with a variety of panel discussions, sneak peeks, and exhibits.

On Saturday, August 20, Rich Ross, chairman, The Walt Disney Studios; Sean Bailey, president, Production, The Walt Disney Studios; John Lasseter, chief creative officer, Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios; and Kevin Feige, producer and president, Marvel Studios, will present a not-to-be-missed look at The Walt Disney Studios’ upcoming film slate, which includes Disney’s The Muppets, John Carter, Disney•Pixar’s Brave, Marvel’s The Avengers, Tim Burton’s Frankenweenie, Oz: The Great and Powerful, and more.

With projects from Disney, Pixar Animation Studios, and Marvel Studios, this special presentation will feature never-before-seen footage and all-star appearances by Jason Segel, Kermit, and Miss Piggy (Disney’s The Muppets), Taylor Kitsch, Lynn Collins, and Willem Dafoe (John Carter), Kelly Macdonald and Kevin McKidd (Brave), Jennifer Garner (The Odd Life of Timothy Green), Jack McBrayer and Sarah Silverman (Wreck-It Ralph), cast members from Marvel’s The Avengers, and other surprise guests.

In celebration of 25 years of moviemaking magic, five sessions will be devoted to the artistry and technical wizardry of Pixar:

• A Conversation with the Pixar Creative Team – Enjoy a rare opportunity to spend some time with the key figures responsible for Pixar’s unprecedented success, including John Lasseter (chief creative officer, Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios), Jim Morris (general manager, Pixar Animation Studios), Pete Docter (director, Monsters, Inc., Up), Andrew Stanton (director, Finding Nemo, WALL-E), Bob Peterson (co-director, Up), Lee Unkrich (director, Toy Story 3), Mark Andrews (director, Brave), and Dan Scanlon (director, Monsters University).

• The Characters of Monsters University – Director Dan Scanlon and Production Designer Ricky Nierva discuss how they combine hair, horns, and a lot of heart to bring the wonderful Monsters University characters to life.

• Michael Giacchino’s Music of Pixar – In this musical presentation, award-winning composer Michael Giacchino explores his early influences through the creation of modern-day classic scores from Ratatouille, Up and Cars 2.

• The Art of Brave – Production Designer Steve Pilcher and Shading Art Director Tia Kratter show how they and their team put paint to canvas and fingers to computer keys to create the stunning visuals of Scotland for Disney•Pixar’s upcoming film Brave.

• Pixar Shorts – This retrospective screening of the animation studio’s legendary short films will be followed by a panel discussion with several of the filmmakers, including Ralph Eggleston (director, For the Birds), Andy Jimenez (director, One Man Band), Angus MacLane (director, BURN-E), Pete Sohn (director, Partly Cloudy), Teddy Newton (director, Day & Night), and Enrico Casarosa (director, La Luna).

Expo attendees will also have access to advance screenings of an all-new 3D version of The Lion King, presented by RealD 3D, coming to theaters and homes this fall, and the upcoming ABC holiday special Prep & Landing: Naughty vs. Nice from Walt Disney Animation Studios.

Out on the Expo floor, fans can explore the world of The Walt Disney Studios at their leisure with comprehensive exhibits, including:

• Walt Disney Studios Animation Pavilion – Experience the art, technology, culture, and legacy of Walt Disney Animation Studios with filmmaker demonstrations, drawing classes, book signings, meet-and-greets, and art exhibits.

• Walt Disney Studios In-Home Entertainment Pavilion – Dive into cutting-edge home entertainment technology and learn what the future holds for Disney movie fans, with sneak peeks of upcoming films in breathtaking high-definition Blu-ray 3D™ and more.

• Inside Tides: Pirates of the Caribbean Film Prop Collection – Get an up-close look at an exclusive collection of detailed set pieces, props, and costumes from the billion-dollar blockbuster Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.

Tickets to D23 Expo 2011 are available at http://www.D23Expo.com. Admission includes access to all experiences and entertainment at the D23 Expo and can be purchased for single days or for three full days of festivities. Admission is $42 for a one-day adult ticket and $32 for children 3-12. Three-day passes are $121 for adults and $91 for children. Members of D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans will receive a discount on admission as well as early entry to each day of the D23 Expo for themselves and their guests. More details about D23 Expo entertainment, events and special guests will be announced in the coming weeks. Fans can keep up with all the news by visiting www.D23Expo.com, as well as by following “Disney D23″ on Twitter and Facebook.

About D23 Expo 2011

The D23 Expo—The Ultimate Disney Fan Event—brings the entire world of Disney under one roof, providing attendees with unprecedented access to Disney films, television and theme parks. For schedules, live updates, interactive features and tools, polls and much more, check out the D23 Expo mobile app at www.D23mobile.com! To be part of the D23 Expo conversation, make sure to follow @DisneyD23 and tag your tweets with #D23Expo. For questions during the D23 Expo, get answers by sending tweets to @D23Expo.

About D23

The name “D23” pays homage to the exciting journey that began in 1923, when Walt Disney opened his fledgling studio in Hollywood. D23 is the first official club for fans in Disney’s 88-year history. D23 gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication Disney twenty-three; a rich website at www.disney.com/D23; a new collectibles line, the Walt Disney Archives Collection; and special events for D23 Members throughout the year, highlighted by the D23 Expo in Anaheim, California, August 19-21, 2011.

Here is the official press release:

BURBANK, Calif. – June 16, 2011 –Television icon Regis Philbin, Muppets creator Jim Henson, the extraordinary actresses who vocally brought to life many modern-day Disney Princesses including Jodi Benson (Ariel from The Little Mermaid), Paige O’Hara (Belle from Beauty and the Beast), Lea Salonga (singing voices of Jasmine from Aladdin and Mulan from Mulan), Linda Larkin (speaking voice of Jasmine from Aladdin), and Anika Noni Rose (Princess Tiana from The Princess and the Frog) plus other equally impressive contributors to the Disney legacy will be named and honored as official Disney Legends during the D23 EXPO at 11 a.m. on Friday, August 19, in the Anaheim Convention Center Arena.

The Disney Legends Awards program is a 24-year tradition of The Walt Disney Company, and the three-day D23 EXPO provides a rare opportunity for the public to be a part of the always touching and memorable presentation. The awards ceremony will kick off the first day of the D23 EXPO, hosted by noted television personality Tom Bergeron (host of ABC’s Dancing with the Stars and America’s Funniest Home Videos), and will take place at 11 a.m. on Friday, August 19, in the Anaheim Convention Center Arena.

“From giving voice to some of our most iconic and beloved Disney princesses to bringing a smile to millions of television viewers every morning for two decades, we are proud to present these 12 men and women with our highest, most coveted honor, The Disney Legends Award,” said Disney President and CEO Bob Iger. “Our newest honorees now join this unique and prestigious circle, which recognizes those whose incredible talents and outstanding contributions have had a lasting, meaningful impact on Disney’s great legacy.”

The 2011 Disney Legends Award honorees (listed alphabetically) are:

JODI BENSON is an acclaimed voice actress and soprano singer who provided both the singing and speaking voices for Disney’s Princess Ariel in The Little Mermaid and its sequels. For more than 20 years, Benson has voiced Ariel in film, television, video games, toys and at Disney Parks. She also starred as Sam in Disney’s Enchanted and voiced Barbie in the hit Disney/Pixar films Toy Story 2 and Toy Story 3, plus Weebo in the film comedy Flubber.

BARTON “BO” BOYD began his career at Disney 1968 as an Assistant Merchandise Supervisor at Disneyland. Continually advancing over the course of his 33-years with the company, Boyd was an integral part of the team creating merchandise specifically for Disneyland and Walt Disney World and held positions including Merchandise Division Director and Vice President, Retail Merchandising. In 1997, he was named Chairman of Disney Consumer Products where he oversaw one of the longest periods of sustained growth in the history of Disney merchandising with such initiatives as Licensed Merchandise, Walt Disney Records, the start of Hyperion Press, the entire line of Disney magazine products, Disney Catalog, Disney Interactive for computer games and educational software, ESPN—The Store, Walt Disney Classics Collection, Walt Disney Collectors Society and the establishment of the first Disney Store outside the grounds of the Disney Parks.

JIM HENSON, an Emmy Award-winning television producer and Oscar-nominated film director, was an American puppeteer and the creator of global phenomenon, The Muppets. The cross-cultural appeal of The Muppets propelled television shows like Sesame Street, The Muppet Show, and Fraggle Rock to new heights. The success of these series led Henson to explore feature films including The Muppet Movie, The Great Muppet Caper and The Muppets Take Manhattan, as well as the technologically ground-breaking fantasy classics The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth. The Muppet legacy continued with popular Disney films such as The Muppet Christmas Carol and Muppet Treasure Island, as well as the upcoming The Muppets, premiering this November.

LINDA LARKIN is a celebrated actress and popular voice performer best known for providing the voice of Princess Jasmine in the Disney animated feature Aladdin, its sequels, spin-offs and television specials. She has also been vocally featured in the Disney animated television series House of Mouse and the popular Kingdom Hearts video game.

PAIGE O’HARA is a Broadway actress and singer best known for providing the voice of Belle in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, its sequels, series and games. She also starred as Angela in the Disney film hit Enchanted. O’Hara has also been vocally featured in the Disney video game Kingdom Hearts and as Belle on the 64th Annual Academy Awards.

REGIS PHILBIN is an Emmy Award-winning, cultural icon who has entertained millions of people through talk shows, game shows, books and albums for more than 50 years. For the past 23 years, Americans have woken up to Philbin, thanks to the nationally syndicated hit talk show LIVE! with Regis and Kelly which originated in 1983 when Philbin created The Morning Show for WABC in New York. In addition to his daytime success, Philbin launched ABC’s Who Wants To Be A Millionaire into a primetime powerhouse and hosted a variety of shows including NBC’s America’s Got Talent, CBS’ Million Dollar Password, and the 37th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards.

JACK AND BONITA WRATHER struck a deal with their friend Walt Disney in 1954 to build a luxury family hotel on property adjacent to Disneyland in Anaheim, California. Ground was broken on March 18, 1955, and the hotel opened six and a half months later—104 rooms in five two-story buildings at a starting room rate of $15. The Disneyland Hotel, originally conceived as simply lodging, presaged future developments in how Americans entertained themselves, pioneering, as Jack’s son Chris wrote, “new forms of dining as entertainment, shopping as entertainment and the use of a waterfront setting” in an urban environment. The Disneyland Hotel has since played host to kings, queens, presidents, entertainment and sports legends and families from around the world.

ANIKA NONI ROSE is a renowned actress and singer who provided the voice of Princess Tiana in Disney’s The Princess and the Frog. In addition, some of her Broadway, television and film credits include her Tony Award-winning performance in Caroline, or Change, the blockbuster feature film Dreamgirls, and television series including The Starter Wife and The Good Wife.

LEA SALONGA is a celebrated actress and singer who provided the singing voice for two Disney Princesses: Jasmine in Aladdin, and Fa Mulan in Mulan and Mulan II. In addition to her recording and television career, Salonga’s vast Broadway credits are highlighted by her performance as Kim in Miss Saigon which garnered her numerous awards including a Tony, Drama Desk, Outer Critics’ Circle and Theater World Awards.

RAY WATSON was President of The Irvine Company when he was asked to join the Board of Directors for Walt Disney Productions in 1973. Watson’s early tenure on the Board saw the expansion of Walt Disney World, the 1976 opening of River Country—Disney’s first water park, and the opening of EPCOT Center, in 1982, which at a cost of $1 billion was the largest private land development project ever at that time. In 1983, Watson was elected as Chairman of the Board and after stepping down as chairman 1984, remained on the Board until he retired in 2004 after serving the Company for 30 years and establishing a worldwide reputation as a real estate development visionary.

GUY WILLIAMS was an acclaimed actor who starred in the hit Disney television series Zorro and two feature films, The Sign of Zorro and Zorro the Avenger. Williams’ charming portrayal of Zorro helped galvanized the character in the public’s imagination and made the series a favorite among the Baby Boomer generation and beyond. His other popular television credits include the hit series Bonanza and Lost in Space.

Each honoree receives a two-foot-tall bronze Disney Legends sculpture that signifies the imagination, creativity and magic they have brought to the Company. Disney Legends Award recipients also participate in a handprint ceremony, and their bronzed prints will be displayed in the Disney Legends Plaza at the Company’s Burbank headquarters.

The first Disney Legend, actor Fred MacMurray (The Shaggy Dog, The Absent-Minded Professor, The Happiest Millionaire), was named in 1987. Including this year’s honorees, a total of 237 Disney Legends have been named. Past Disney Legends include Tim Allen, Robin Williams, Julie Andrews, Howard Ashman, Annette Funicello, Peter Jennings, Angela Lansbury, Steve Martin, Alan Menken, Hayley Mills, Fess Parker, Sir Tim Rice, Dick Van Dyke and Barbara Walters. At the inaugural D23 Expo in 2009, the Legends Awards ceremony, which honored Robin Williams, Beatrice Arthur, Estelle Getty, Rue McLanahan, Betty White, Tony Anselmo, Bill Farmer, Harry Archinal, Don Iwerks and Leota Toombs Thomas, was presented to thousands of Disney fans for the first time.

Tickets to the D23 EXPO are available at http://www.D23Expo.com. Admission includes access to all experiences and entertainment at the D23 EXPO, including the Disney Legends Ceremony, and can be purchased for single days or for the full three days of festivities. Admission is $42 for a one-day adult ticket and $32 for children 3-12. Three-day passes are $121 for adults and $91 for children. Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club will receive a discount for up to four admissions, as well as early entry to each day of the D23 EXPO for themselves and their guests.

Here is the official press release:

BURBANK, Calif. – May 26, 2011 – D23: The Official Disney Fan Club and the Walt Disney Archives are proud to announce the return of the “Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives” exhibit to the D23 Expo. During the D23 Expo at the Anaheim Convention Center, August 19-21, 2011, the 12,000-square-foot exhibit, which has doubled in size since the 2009 Expo, will give fans unprecedented access and insight into more than eight decades of Disney history.

The expansive exhibit will showcase the crown jewels of the Walt Disney Archives Collection, many of which will be displayed publicly for the first time. The most memorable props, set pieces, photos, costumes and memorabilia from beloved Disney films such as the Pirates of the Caribbean films, Alice in Wonderland, National Treasure, Tron (1982), The Rocketeer, Pinocchio and Who Framed Roger Rabbit will allow fans to enjoy and explore their favorite movies and characters like never before.  In addition, the show floor will feature one-of-a-kind pieces including a 23-foot model of The Black Pearl, used in both Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest and Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End, the Dharma Initiative Volkswagen van from the ABC television series LOST, and Walt Disney’s limousine.

“Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives,” located on the second floor of the convention center, will feature numerous special exhibits including: an exhaustive collection of props, costumes and set pieces from ABC’s groundbreaking series LOST; a Mickey Mouse exhibit featuring the original Mickey Mouse doll, Mousegetar, and a retrospective of memorabilia; a House of de Vil exhibit commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the animated film 101 Dalmatians, featuring a Fan Art Gallery as well as costumes and props from the live action film, which is celebrating its 15th Anniversary; and a tribute to Zorro, the first ever episodic television series, featuring the largest collection of costumes and vintage memorabilia ever exhibited.

“This is truly a one-of-a-kind display that showcases the enormous creativity and imagination of Walt Disney and the artists who have created unforgettable moments in entertainment history,” said Steven Clark, head of D23. “From Mickey Mouse and Walt Disney to Pirates of the Caribbean and Wizards of Waverly Place, the ‘Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives’ will truly be something for Disney fans of all ages.”

The D23 EXPO 2011 will also feature the Disney Legends Awards – a tradition that pays tribute to the talented men and women who have made indelible contributions to the Disney legacy; the return of the D23 Live Auction, boasting extraordinary rarities and specially designed items for Disney fans; the all-new Ultimate Disney Trivia Tournament Presented by Hasbro® TRIVIAL PURSUIT: Disney For All Edition, where Disney fans will match wits to win a cruise on the new Disney Fantasy cruise ship; plus amazing live events, special celebrity appearances, panels and presentations and unique experiences from every corner of Disney – from upcoming feature film and television sneak peeks to what’s new and what’s next from our theme parks around the world.

About D23 Expo 2011

The D23 Expo—The Ultimate Disney Fan Event—brings the entire world of Disney under one roof, providing attendees with unprecedented access to Disney films, television and theme parks as never before. Tickets for the D23 Expo 2011 fall into different pricing tiers, based on purchase date (visit www.D23Expo.com for details), and D23 Members can enjoy additional savings plus members-only benefits. Multiday money-saving tickets are also available for both D23 Members and the general public.

About D23

The name “D23” pays homage to the wonder and excitement that began in 1923 when Walt Disney opened his fledgling studio in Hollywood.  D23 is the first official community for fans in Disney’s 88-year history. D23 gives its members a greater connection to the entire world of Disney by placing them in the middle of the magic through its quarterly publication Disney twenty-three; a rich website at www.disney.com/D23; a collectibles line, The Walt Disney Archives Collection; and special events for D23 Members throughout the year, highlighted by the D23 Expo in Anaheim, California, August 19-21, 2011.

Fans can join D23 at www.Disney.com/D23, select shops at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort and www.DisneyStore.com/D23 To keep up with all the latest D23 news and events, follow us “DisneyD23” on Twitter, YouTube and Facebook.

The weekend’s activities will illuminate the rich history of Walt Disney’s “Project Florida.” Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th will feature a remarkable gathering of Walt Disney World pioneers, retrospectives, screenings of rare and newly discovered film and TV footage and lively presentations that will give D23 members an unprecedented look at this truly spectacular World.

All Destination D guests will also receive a complimentary, limited-edition reproduction of the 1970 “Preview Edition” of the Walt Disney World souvenir guidebook from the Walt Disney Archives Collection. The 22-page, colorful book is just one of the gifts Members will receive.

The complete Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th line-up (as well as information about D23′s Great Disney Scavenger Hunt) is available at the D23 Web site and includes:

• Appearances by notable Disney Legends & Imagineers Marty Sklar, Bob Gurr, Jack Lindquist, Eric Jacobson, Tony Baxter, Charlie Ridgway and Ron Logan, in addition to Debra Browne, the 1971 Walt Disney World Ambassador.

• A special exhibit from the Walt Disney Archives featuring rare items and artifacts showing the creation and evolution of Walt Disney World Resort.

• A multitude of fantastic presentations covering topics such as bizarre and wacky moments in Walt Disney World’s past, Walt’s vision for EPCOT, and even a peek at the Walt Disney World that never was!

• Rare autograph session with Disney Legends and authors.

• An enchanting concert, Magic Journeys: A Flight of Fancy through 40 Years of Walt Disney World Musical Memories featuring Disney Legend and Academy Award®-winner Richard M. Sherman.

Tickets will go on sale February 24 at 10 a.m., Pacific Time (1 p.m. Eastern Time) in which D23 members can purchase tickets to the spectacular two-day event at the official event page. Last year’s Destination D event was sold-out so fans are encouraged to book early.

Guests may also now register for D23′s Great Disney Scavenger Hunt: Walt Disney World, which takes place May 12 & 13, and will send hundreds of teams across the Resort’s four theme parks in what will be the largest scavenger hunt to ever hit Walt Disney World! Registration for the Hunt is open to both D23 Member and the general public.

Here is the official press release:

BURBANK, Calif. – December 2, 2010 – D23: The Official Disney Fan Club is pleased to announce the coming year’s slate of special events, designed especially for its diverse and growing membership base.

Among the exciting offerings for 2011 are exclusive D23 Studio Tours throughout the year, four free 50 and Fabulous film screenings on the Walt Disney Studio Lot in Burbank, D23’s Great Disney Scavenger Hunt: Walt Disney World, the highly anticipated Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th, the perennial favorite Sip & Stroll event during the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, a D23/Disney Junior Jake and the Never Land Pirates event on the Burbank Studio Lot for the budding Disney fan, the festive Magic and Merriment event at the Walt Disney World Resort to kick off the holiday season and, of course, D23 Expo 2011.

D23 Members receive advance notification of all special events through D23’s biweekly FanFare email, and all events are offered on a space-available basis. More details on events, and on becoming a D23 Member, can be found at www.D23.com.

SAVE THE DATES!

D23’s 2011 special event lineup includes:

January 29: Special preview screening of Jake and the Never Land Pirates featuring David Arquette

D23 is partnering with Disney Junior — Disney Channel’s new broadcast initiative designed for kids ages 2 through 7 – inviting D23 Members to bring their young swashbucklers for an advance screening of two episodes of Jake and the Never Land Pirates, a new animated series coming to television this February.

David Arquette is the voice of Skully, the parrot who keeps an eye out for Jake and his crew of kid pirates as they navigate the familiar waters of Never Land while dodging the devious Captain Hook and Mr. Smee.

Following the screening of the two 11-minute episodes, Arquette will sit down for a Q&A with D23’s Disney Geek, Jeffrey Epstein, and will also take questions from the audience. Afterwards, the villainous Captain Hook will be available for photos and autographs in front of the Studio Theatre.

May 12-13: D23’s Great Disney Scavenger Hunt: Walt Disney World

In spring 2011, for the first time in the 40-year history of Walt Disney World, guests will have the chance to scour all four Florida theme parks to win incredible prizes in this official Disney scavenger hunt. Each team will consist of 2-4 participants, and additional rules and registration information will be available soon at the D23 Web site.

May 14-15: Destination D: Walt Disney World 40th

Following the rave reviews of Destination D: Disneyland ’55, this event will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Orlando resort, commemorating its history and heritage. Panels will include all-new presentations that build upon the successful panels at the Anaheim event, including:

• “Walt Disney World: The Way We Were,” hosted by Disney Legend Dave Smith
• “Weird Disney World” with Walt Disney Archives Director Becky Cline
• “Walt Disney World Through the Eye of Television”
• A special evening event featuring musical memories from throughout the history of Walt Disney World

Other panels, featured speakers and details will be announced soon on the D23 Web site.

August 19-21: D23 Expo 2011 in Anaheim, California

Affectionately dubbed “The Ultimate Fan Event” by Disney enthusiasts, the D23 Expo brings the entire world of Disney under one roof, providing attendees with unprecedented access to Disney films, television and theme parks as never before. An event that only occurs every other year, this is the first D23 Expo since the premiere event in 2009.

Highlights of D23 Expo 2011’s weekend activities will include:

• 2011 Disney Legends. Paying tribute to the talented men and women who have made indelible contributions to Disney entertainment
• Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives. Featuring dozen of props, artifacts and costumes, accessible to the public for the first time in Disney’s history
• Collector’s Forum. Where attendees can buy, sell and trade precious memorabilia and merchandise
• Fan Art Contest. Themed to 101 Dalmatians in honor of the 50th anniversary of the animated classic
• The Ultimate Disney Trivia Tournament will allow participants to demonstrate their Disney knowledge as they compete for outstanding prizes
• Many more one-of-a-kind D23 Expo panels, presentations and experiences which will be announced in the coming months.

October 14-15: Sip & Stroll at Epcot in Orlando

As part of the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, D23 is once again hosting their annual Sip & Stroll event exclusive to D23 Members. More details will be announced in 2011.

December 17-18: Magic and Merriment at Walt Disney World in Orlando

D23 brings back its annual holiday tradition celebrating the spirit of the season, exclusive for D23 Members. More details will be announced in 2011.

50 and Fabulous Screenings

At D23 Expo 2009, Disney fans were invited to view Disney film masterpieces that were celebrating their golden anniversaries — beloved animated classics and live-action family friendly films rarely seen on the big screen in the past 50 years. The D23 tradition continued in 2010, this time in the recently renovated, state-of-the-art 400-seat Studio Theatre on the Walt Disney Studio Lot in Burbank.

The 2011 season of 50 and Fabulous begins January 22 on the Burbank Lot. Tickets to the screenings are free (with a $5 ticket processing fee) for D23 Members and one guest, and will include special D23 surprises. The schedule is as follows:

• January 22:  101 Dalmatians - Released originally January 25, 1961, the smash hit was rereleased in 1969, 1979, 1985 and 1991. Along with the memorable song “Cruella de Vil,” 101 Dalmatians is known for originating the term “Twilight Bark” (the system which dogs across the countryside use to communicate with one another), which also happens to be the name of the quick news bits section of the D23 Web site!

• March 12:  The Absent-Minded Professor – Originally released March 16, 1961, the film stars Fred MacMurray — the first Disney Legend — as Medfield College’s Professor Ned Brainard, the inventor of the magical Flubber. The film also features the “Medfield Fight Song,” the first song ever penned by Richard and Robert Sherman for a Disney movie.

• June 18:  The Parent Trap – Originally released June 21, 1961, the film was lauded not just for its imaginative story but for its technical advances. Disney legend Hayley Mills plays both twins Sharon and Susan, separated as children by their divorced parents, who set in motion a plan to reunite their estranged parents. The Parent Trap earned Academy Award® nominations for editing and sound.

• Nov 19: Babes in Toyland – Starring Ray Bolger, Annette Funicello, Ed Wynn, Tommy Sands, Ann Jillian, Tommy Kirk and Kevin Corcoran, Babes in Toyland was released December 14, 1961 and has become a holiday favorite. Revisit Tom (Sands) and Mary (Funicello) as they prepare to wed in Mother Goose Village while dodging the evil Barnaby (Bolger). The Forest of No Return, an incredible gun that shrinks its targets and, of course, the many beloved songs, are all part of this magical adventure.

D23 Tours at the Walt Disney Studios and Archives

D23 continues to offer this rare opportunity for D23 Members to enjoy a two-and-a-half hour tour of The Walt Disney Studios and Walt Disney Archives, hosted by D23 and Walt Disney Archives staff. Space is very limited. The 2011 tour dates are:

• February 5
• April 30
• July 23
• November 5

As with all live events, dates and times are subject to change. D23 is in the planning stages for even more exciting 2011 activities, details of which will be revealed in the coming months.

Last year’s first ever expo was extremely crowded so if you want to attend, I’d advise that you get tickets now. I’m sure the event will sell out quickly.

Below is the official press release from Disney which contains all the details.

BURBANK, CALIFORNIA – The first-ever D23 EXPO in 2009 left Disney fans asking when there would be another. On Thursday, Aug. 19, D23: The Official Disney Fan Club begins ticket sales for the next adventure – an incredible three-day event that brings the entire world of Disney under one roof at the Anaheim Convention Center next Aug. 19–21.

Tickets for the D23 EXPO 2011 will be available at a discounted price for a limited time. From August 19–December 31, 2010, tickets will be $37 for a one-day adult admission and $27 for children 3-12. Tickets for members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club will be $30 for a one-day adult admission and $22 for children. Multi-day money-saving tickets are also available for both D23 Members and the general public, and D23 Members can save as much as $204 off the price of admission, based on the purchase of four three-day tickets at the D23 Member rate. For more information on tickets and the ticket pricing structure for D23 Members and general admission, visit www.Disney.com/D23.

In addition to these special advance-purchase savings, D23 Members can also buy new D23 EXPO VIP packages that are only available to members. These new packages offer incredible exclusive opportunities and will have very limited availability.

The PREMIERE PACKAGE includes:

• Three days of admission to the D23 EXPO

• Reserved seating at all events and presentations in the Arena

• Access to a relaxing Premiere Lounge with concierge and complimentary refreshments, as well as a special exhibit from the Walt Disney Archives

• A D23 EXPO autograph book

• A special Premiere Package gift bag

The SORCERER PACKAGE includes:

• All benefits in the Premiere Package

• A private tour of and reception in the “Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives” exhibit the night before the Expo opens

• Exclusive hardhat tour of the show floor prior to opening

• Limited edition artwork signed by Disney artist Dave Pacheco

• Reserved seating at all presentations and panels

• A voucher for an appointment with an on-site massage therapist

• Special shopping opportunities at the Disney Dream Store

• A hardbound, collectible D23 EXPO guidebook.

Only 250 Premiere Package tickets will be available at $500 per ticket. Availability of the Sorcerer Package will be strictly limited to 50 D23 Members at $1,000 per ticket. Both packages are only available to D23 Members.

All D23 Members – both Gold level and Silver level – can take advantage of these exclusive admission savings and access to the special packages when tickets go on sale on Thursday, Aug. 19 at www.D23Expo.com .

The D23 EXPO 2011 will also feature the Disney Legends Awards – a tradition that pays tribute to the talented men and women who have made indelible contributions to the Disney legacy; the return of the D23 Live Auction boasting extraordinary rarities and specially designed items for Disney fans; an all-new Fan Art Contest themed to the 50th anniversary of One Hundred and One Dalmatians; Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives with an expanded exhibit of costumes, props and set pieces from Disney’s rich history; plus amazing live events, special celebrity appearances, panels and presentations, sneak peeks and unique experiences that celebrate the past, present and future of Disney. The D23 EXPO 2011 is scheduled to take place Aug. 19-21 at the Anaheim Convention Center.

In 2009, the first D23 EXPO brought together all parts of The Walt Disney Company under one roof including The Walt Disney Studios, Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, Disney Consumer Products, The Walt Disney Archives, ABC, Disney Channel, Radio Disney, and Disney Interactive Media Group to celebrate all things Disney. Stars like Johnny Depp, Nicolas Cage, Courteney Cox, Betty White, Robin Williams, John Travolta and the cast of Wizards of Waverly Place made appearances; Miley Cyrus and Honor Society performed in concert. Imagineering legends took to the stage, and key Disney executives and creative talent including Walt Disney President and CEO Bob Iger and Disney and Pixar Chief Creative Officer John Lasseter.

Gold-level D23 memberships are $74.99, and Silver-level memberships – which provide all benefits with the exception of a Disney twenty-three subscription – are just $34.99 a year. All discounts and special promotions are available to both Gold- and Silver-level D23 Members.

Disney fans can become members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club at www.disney.com/D23 , select shops at the Disneyland® and Walt Disney World Resorts and at www.DisneyStore.com/D23.

Full information is included in the official press release below.

DISNEY’S D23 CELEBRATES DISNEYLAND’S 55TH ANNIVERSARY WITH ALL-NEW, TWO-DAY DESTINATION D EVENT

2011 Dates for D23 EXPO Also Announced as the Official Community for Disney Fans Marks First Year

BURBANK, Calif. – March 10, 2010 – It’s a milestone year for the Disneyland® Resort, and D23: The Official Community for Disney Fans is celebrating with the premiere of DESTINATION D, a brand-new, two-day event exclusively for D23 Members that illuminates Disney’s fascinating history.

D23 announced its latest members-only event on its first anniversary – capping a year in which Disney’s first-ever fan community grew to encompass tens of thousands of members from all 50 U.S. states and more than 30 countries worldwide.

The inaugural DESTINATION D, whose theme is “Disneyland ’55,” will be held this Sept. 24-25. DESTINATION D: Disneyland ’55 will take D23 Members on a journey through the design, creation, debut and magical history of the world’s first Disney theme park. The first DESTINATION D will be held in the Grand Ballroom of the Disneyland Hotel.

DESTINATION D: Disneyland ’55 will offer two full days of special presentations, panels, screenings and guest speakers that let fans meet and talk with key figures in Disneyland’s history. Future DESTINATION D events will explore other important aspects of Disney’s creative legacy.  Following its premiere in September, DESTINATION D will alternate annually with the enormously popular D23 EXPO.

The next D23 EXPO is set for Aug. 19-21, 2011, returning to the Anaheim Convention Center. Tickets for the 2011 D23 EXPO will go on sale Aug. 19 (one year in advance), with specially priced tickets available exclusively to D23 Members. In addition, D23 Charter Members will have access to a special Charter Member Lounge at the 2011 D23 EXPO, at no additional cost.

The first-ever D23 EXPO attracted nearly 40,000 Disney fans when it debuted last September, bringing the entire world of Disney under one massive roof.  During the D23 EXPO, fans were treated to appearances by superstars like Johnny Depp, Miley Cyrus and John Travolta; explored exciting, new concepts and attractions from Disney Parks and Walt Disney Imagineering; peered into Disney’s history at special panels, presentations and displays; and discovered the newest entertainment, products and events from throughout The Walt Disney Company.

“The first D23 EXPO surpassed all of our expectations, and our 2011 Expo is already shaping up to be a jaw-dropping, not-to-be missed showcase of the best and brightest Disney has to offer,” said Steven Clark, head of D23.

“We’re very excited to also be creating an entirely new event with DESTINATION D, which will bring Disney’s fascinating history to D23 Members in ways no other Disney fan can experience,” Clark said.  “There’s nowhere on earth quite as special as Disneyland, and we want fans to see it as they never have before.”

The D23 team is in the midst of developing exclusive programming for DESTINATION D – but an early peek at plans reveals a host of special speakers, presentations and panels throughout the two-day event, including:

• “Disneyland: The Way We Were” – Disney’s Chief Archivist Dave Smith will look back at highlights from Disneyland history;

• “Disney Undiscovered” – An exploration of never-built projects and attractions developed for Disneyland;

• “23 on 55” – The Walt Disney Archives celebrates Disneyland’s 55th anniversary;

• “Weird Disney” – A showcase for some of the quirky, little-known facts, places, people and ideas that even the most avid fan might not know.

More details on the programming and events planned for DESTINATION D: Disneyland ’55 – as well as details about the 2011 D23 EXPO – will be available soon at www.disney.com/D23. Tickets will go on sale early this summer.

DESTINATION D joins a lineup of special events throughout 2010 designed exclusively for D23 Members. Among them are free screenings of classic Disney movies during the “50 & Fabulous” film festival at the Walt Disney Studios in Burbank; members-only tours of the famed Walt Disney Archives; an exclusive Sip & Stroll event during the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival; and holiday-themed Magic and Merriment weekend at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.

Related: Get cheap Disneyland tickets today!