Destination D23: Castle Makeover, Villains Takeover & more!

Disney fans were treated to a weekend full of surprises as Destination D23 returned to Walt Disney World from August 29–31, 2025. The fan-favorite event delivered a mix of nostalgic tributes and exciting new announcements for both theme parks and upcoming films. From a refreshed Cinderella Castle to major updates across Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars, here’s everything you need to know.

Film & Entertainment Announcements

The first panel of the weekend revealed a powerhouse slate of films spanning the next several years:

Marvel & Star Wars

• Avengers: Doomsday – the biggest Marvel project yet, directed by the Russo brothers, with Robert Downey Jr. expected to return to the franchise.
• The Mandalorian & Grogu – arriving May 22, 2026, a new movie with your favorite characters.

Pixar & Animation

• Toy Story 5 – officially confirmed for June 19, 2026, introducing “Smarty Pants,” a new character voiced by Conan O’Brien.
• Hexed – Disney Animation’s next original film, coming November 2026, about a teen and his mom stumbling into a magical hidden world.
• Zootopia 2 – hitting theaters November 26, 2025, with an expanded voice cast.
• The Incredibles 3 and Coco 2 – both announced for 2028.

Other Films

• Ice Age: Boiling Point – scheduled for February 5, 2027.
• Hoppers – an original animated film slated for March 6, 2026.

Parks & Resorts Announcements

Cinderella Castle Makeover

Walt Disney World’s centerpiece is getting a fresh new (old) look. Cinderella Castle will be repainted in a color scheme inspired by its original design—grays, creams, blues, and golds—restoring a touch of classic elegance. Disney shared that the updated finish uses automotive-grade paint to keep it vibrant and weather-resistant for years to come. No date has been announced, but we’re hopeful to see this return in time for the 55th Anniversary!

Carousel of Progress Update

For the first time in a long time, Carousel of Progress will be getting an updated scene. In a heartfelt nod to Walt himself, the Carousel of Progress will debut a brand-new Audio-Animatronic figure of Walt Disney, offering a modern tribute to the man behind the magic.

“The introduction of a new Audio-Animatronics figure of Walt Disney in ‘Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress’ marks an exciting milestone in our shared mission to celebrate the story of the man behind the magic and inspire new generations with his innovations and vision for the future. We appreciate the continued efforts and meticulous care that Imagineering has taken to keep Walt’s legacy alive,” Kirsten Komoroske, Executive Director of the Walt Disney Family Museum said.

TRON: Ares Ride Overlay

To celebrate the upcoming film Tron: Ares, TRON Lightcycle / Run in Florida and Shanghai Disney will feature a special limited-time overlay. Guests can expect bold visuals, high-tech effects, and an all-new soundtrack from Nine Inch Nails beginning mid-September.

Disneyland Handcrafted Documentary

Fans of Disneyland history can look forward to Disneyland Handcrafted, a new documentary by Leslie Iwerks that dives into the artistry behind the park’s creation. Featuring rare archival footage and even ASMR-style sound design, it will premiere this winter on Disney+ and YouTube.

World of Frozen

Explore the extraordinary world of Arendelle in an immersive new land, opening in Spring 2026 at Disneyland Paris.

Villains Takeover

From land to sea and everything in between, Disney Villains are taking over!

Villains Land – Disney’s Darkest Expansion Yet

Imagineers shared that the land will evoke dark, ornate, and gothic architectural inspirations—designed to immerse guests in a world where villains reign supreme. Research trips have begun in Paris and Barcelona to study Art Nouveau architecture, a unique design form that flourished in the late 1800s. They have coined the term “conjourned architecture” to reference the blend of historical components and fantastical worlds that have merged to create something wicked.

Villains on the Disney Destiny

From Cruella De Vil to Loki, your favorite villains will be roaming the ship and causing havoc.

• “Treble Making with Cruella” is a new interactive musical experience taking place in the piano bar on the Disney Destiny. After hearing the “horribly inaccurate” song written about her, Cruella enlists the help of a piano player and guests to compose a new, more flattering and musically accurate theme song for herself.
• Loki, the god of mischief himself, will be interacting with guests in the Grand Hall and inviting them to join his schemes to take over the ship.
• “Parlor Tricks” with Dr. Facilier will be a unique character interaction, but there’s a catch: you have to find him first!

Villains Bath & Body Works

Fragrances inspired by the Evil Queen and Maleficent can be found in an all-new Bath & Body Works Collection. Products include candles, soaps, sanitizers, and more!

Fan Favorites & Nostalgia

The weekend wasn’t just about what’s new, it was also about honoring Disney’s legacy. Fans enjoyed:

• A Disney Family Legacy panel with Roy P. Disney.
• A reunion panel of beloved Disney Channel stars.
• A celebration of 80 years of The Three Caballeros.
• A celebration of 30 years of A Goofy Movie featuring the voice actors of Goofy and Max.
• A lively 80s/90s throwback concert to close out the event.

Looking Ahead

The next opportunity to experience a Disney fan event will be in 2026. D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will officially return to Anaheim, California, from August 14-16, 2026. Disney fans can expect a weekend of fun, that’s promised to be even bigger than before!