Ten years of D23!

10th March 2009 D23 was introduced to the world by CEO of The Walt Disney Company, Bob Iger. It held its first expo in September 2009 Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California.

During the three day event there's behind the scenes tours, presentation and big announcements. So going to this convention means you have the first look at everything new coming to Disney and get your hands on all the new merchandise coming out.

From videos and pictures I've seen it isn't all smooth sailing though! There are obviously thousands of others who also want to grab the new pins or the freebies so I think if you're going to go you both need to plan massively and certainly go for the three days its on.

At the first D23 announcements were made regarding expansion of the theme parks and sneak peeks of upcoming projects such as Tangled.

It has been such a success that since then it has continued every two years. In many ways it is similar to Comic con- Disney fans dress up, mingle with other fans and meet Disney legends such as the people who voice the characters and the directors who have worked with the company.

Now you may be wondering what D23 stands for the D of course stands for Disney and the 23 refers to the year 1923 when Walt founded the company.

There are two memberships. The free version which gives you updates on the new things happening with Disney or the Gold membership where you pay a minimum of $99.99 a year. The gold membership does seem worth it especially if you visit Disney often. It entitles you to exclusive gifts such as pins, discounts to the expo, promotional offers and I believe discounts to certain restaurants inside the park.

Many people say that joining D23 is only worth it either during an Expo year (obviously if you're planning to go) and if there's a major pin set that you have your eye on.

I have only really skimmed the surface of D23 and so if you're considering it its definitely worth doing more research to ensure its for you. Right now the free membership works for me as I haven't got a Disney trip planned for anytime soon and it just means I can share new information with all of you!

Image from the D23 website. Not my image.