When the Destination D23 2025 schedule dropped without a dedicated Disney Parks panel, it left many fans (especially those holding weekend tickets) feeling a bit let down. Traditionally, Disney park executives like Josh D’Amaro have taken the stage at past events to share updates from Walt Disney Imagineering and occasionally drop some headline-making announcements.
Case in point: at Destination D23 2023, D’Amaro revealed the new version of Test Track, the Country Bear Musical Jamboree, Tropical Americas taking over DinoLand U.S.A., and DCA’s Avengers Campus news, along with other project updates — all accompanied by The Muppets throughout the panel. It was quite the performance for parks news and updates (which ironically didn’t include any Muppets news, but I digress).
This year, the panel lineup looks a little different. There’s no clear “Parks & Resorts” session, but that doesn’t mean park news is off the table entirely. A few panels in particular could provide opportunities for updates on ongoing projects… and maybe even a surprise announcement if we’re lucky. Thanks to @ScottGustin’s guidance, here are five panels that very well could contain park project updates and maybe some news in-between:
Saturday, 9:15 a.m. – Walt Disney Studios Showcase – “An exclusive look at the movies fans love, and a glimpse into what to look forward to from Disney’s film studios.”
While not park-focused, major film announcements often inspire future park tie-in; think Frozen, Encanto, and Moana.
Saturday, 3:00 p.m. – Creating the Happiest Place on Earth – “Join Disney Legend, filmmaker and author, Don Hahn, and acclaimed filmmaker with deep Disney roots, Leslie Iwerks, for a discussion on The Happiest Place on Earth. Together, they’ll explore Walt Disney’s vision and the legacy and nostalgia of Disneyland in honor of the resort’s 70th anniversary.”
While mostly retrospective, this panel could drop hints about future Disneyland Resort offerings, especially given the milestone year.
Saturday, 3:45 p.m. – What’s Cooking with Disney Eats? – “Take your seat at the table! We’re cooking up something special and you’re invited to be a part of the live audience in the Disney Eats kitchen. From Mickey bars to Michelin stars, this panel is a foodie experience you won’t want to miss!”
This food-focused panel could give us a peek at new theme park and resort dining offerings.
Sunday, 9:05 a.m. – Disney Villains: Icons of Evil – “Join Disney Experiences (and some of your favorite troublemakers) for a panel discussion on how Disney Villains experiences come to life around the world. Hear directly from the creative minds behind projects and attractions, plus enjoy a special Villains-themed medley to kick off Destination D23.”
This one has the biggest potential for concrete park news. Creative leads from Disney Experiences will share how villain-themed attractions and entertainment come to life worldwide; perfect timing for more details on the upcoming Villains Land at Magic Kingdom.
Sunday, 2:50 p.m. – Beyond the Spires: An Insider Look at Disney Castles – “Think you know everything about Disney castles? Think again! Join Imagineers as they peel back the plaster and pixie dust to share behind-the-scenes details and little-known facts from castles across the globe. Along the way, they’ll share the global inspirations, design challenges, and maybe even a few surprises that stretch beyond the spires.”
Imagineers will reveal behind-the-scenes details from Disney castles around the world. Could be the perfect setup for announcing the return of Disneyland’s Castle Dream Lights—or other castle enhancements. This sure would be a great opportunity to announce the return of Castle Dream Lights… just saying!
Tempering Expectations (But Keeping a Wish List)
With so many domestic projects already on the table, including Villains Land, Piston Peak, Tropical Americas, Monstropolis, and Lakeshore Lodge at Walt Disney World, plus Coco and Avatar additions at Disneyland, it’s likely updates will center on progress reports rather than brand-new reveals. Disney Cruise Line’s future ships could also get some spotlight.
That said, a little daydreaming never hurts. Here’s hoping for the return of Disneyland’s PeopleMover, and some long-overdue EPCOT news after the park’s transformation is supposedly “done” (Spaceship Earth and Journey into Imagination refreshes, anyone?).
Destination D23 2025 kicks off in two weeks, happening August 29th-31st at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort . What updates or news are you hoping to see?
