D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event brings together some of the most sought-after merchandise Disney offers all year. Between limited-edition collectibles, event-exclusive pins, and first-to-market books, there is a lot to take in. If you plan to shop, a little preparation goes a long way. Here is a breakdown of where to go, what to look for, and how the checkout tools work so you can spend less time in line and more time browsing.
World of Disney: The Product Experience
The main hub for shopping is World of Disney: The Product Experience. This destination gathers limited-edition and event-exclusive merchandise in one place, giving you a chance to interact with products and stories from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars.
Inside, you will find the D23 Marketplace, a large retail space that combines popular products from DisneyStore.com and Disney Parks. This is the spot to look for fan-favorite collections like Disney Limited-Edition Dolls, along with debut items such as Disney Lacers, a new vinyl collectible series. Pin traders will want to stop here too. The Marketplace carries new limited-edition styles and a special capsule that marks the 25th anniversary of Disney Pin Trading.
Readers have a reason to visit as well. Disney Publishing sets up within World of Disney: The Product Experience with first-to-market titles, including books from Disney and Pixar creative leaders. If you enjoy the behind-the-scenes side of Disney, this is worth a look.
Show Floor Shopping Experiences
Beyond the main product hub, several stores are spread across the show floor. Knowing which hall to head to can save you time.
The Walt Disney Company Store makes an appearance with two locations. The Main Store in Hall D features branded merchandise from The Walt Disney Studios, The Walt Disney Archives, and The Walt Disney Company, ranging from collectibles to apparel. It also serves as the home for official D23 event merchandise. Pin collectors should head to The Walt Disney Company Pin Store in Hall B, which offers a large selection of limited-edition pins with new releases appearing each day.
Mickey’s of Glendale, the store tied to Walt Disney Imagineering, returns with two locations in Hall C. Here you will find work from Disney’s Imagineers, including apparel and collectibles inspired by characters, attractions, and memorable Disney moments. There is also a Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store that rolls out new limited-edition pins throughout the weekend. One important detail: this pin store is cashless and requires the Disneyland app to make a purchase. Download the app and set up your account before you arrive so you are ready to check out without any delays.
Fans of Hollywood-themed items can visit Disney Studio Store Hollywood in Hall B. This shop carries newly released limited-edition pins, framed pin sets, and official Disney Studio Store apparel.
Mobile Checkout and Virtual Queue
Disney offers a few tools to make shopping smoother. Merchandise mobile checkout and virtual queue return at select locations, and both are accessible through a direct link from the D23 app to the Disneyland app.
To be ready, download both apps ahead of time. The D23 app helps you navigate presentations, photo opportunities, shopping, and everything else happening at the event. The Disneyland app handles the purchasing side. Keep in mind that many locations are cashless and accept only credit or debit cards, so plan your payment method accordingly. Setting up your accounts in advance means you can jump straight into shopping rather than fumbling with logins on the floor.
Shopping After the Event
If you cannot attend in person, or if a coveted item sells out before you reach it, you still have options. Select event items and new products from collections that launched at D23 go on sale through DisneyStore.com after the event wraps. Availability is limited and items sell while supplies last, so setting a reminder for the online release is a smart move if there is something specific you have your eye on.
Final Thoughts
Shopping at D23 rewards a bit of planning. Map out the halls you want to visit, download the D23 and Disneyland apps early, set up your accounts, and have a card ready for the cashless locations. With those steps handled, you can focus on finding the collectibles, pins, and books that matter most to you. And if you miss something, DisneyStore.com gives you one more chance to bring a piece of the event home.
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
