Comprehensive Guide To Freebies And Exclusive Offers At The D23 Expo

The D23 Expo, the official fan event for Disney enthusiasts, is renowned not only for its major announcements and panels but also for a wide array of free items, exclusive discounts, and promotional gifts available to attendees. These opportunities are primarily extended to D23 Gold Members and Disney+ subscribers, with specific offers varying by sponsor and availability. This article details the types of freebies and offers reported from the event, the eligibility requirements, and the processes for accessing them, based on information from attendee reports and official promotional guidelines.

Understanding the D23 Expo and Its Attendee Perks

The D23 Expo is a three-day convention that brings together fans of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and more. A significant component of the experience involves navigating the expansive show floor, where sponsors and "Friends of Disney" provide exclusive perks. Attendees can identify participating vendors by looking for the circular "OFFER SPOT" sign, which denotes locations offering freebies and discounts.

Access to most exclusive offers requires proof of eligibility. For D23 Gold Members, this can be a physical membership card or a virtual card accessed through the D23 app. The virtual card is found by selecting "My D23" in the app's bottom menu and choosing the "My D23 Membership Card" option. It is recommended that attendees take a screenshot of this card for easy access. Disney+ subscribers may also need to show proof of their subscription to access certain offers.

Free Items Available at the D23 Expo

According to attendee reports, a variety of complimentary items were distributed during the event. These items were often tied to specific activities, panels, or membership status.

General Attendee Freebies

All attendees, regardless of membership level, had access to some basic free items. Upon scanning in for the first time, attendees were encouraged to pick up an event guide and a lanyard. The event guide included a detailed timetable, general expo information, and a floor plan. Attendees also received a reusable bag featuring the D23 2019 logo on one side and an ad for Disney+ on the other.

Panel-Specific Freebies

Certain panels offered exclusive free items to attendees. For example, those who attended the Disney+ panel received a hat and a pin. The pin featured the phrase "better ruins everything." Additionally, after viewing the "Heroes & Villains: the Art of the Disney Costume" exhibit, attendees were given bookmarks displaying some of the costumes.

D23 Gold Member and Disney+ Exclusive Freebies

D23 Gold Members had the opportunity to pick up an event-exclusive gift at the D23 Ultimate Fan Lounge in Hall D. This gift was a commemorative pin featuring Sorcerer Mickey Mouse.

Several sponsors offered free gifts specifically to D23 Gold Members and Disney+ subscribers. These offers were subject to availability and often required a purchase or specific action. Examples of free gifts reported include:

• Disney+: A special gift was available for Disney+ subscribers, and they could also participate in the "Great Pin Pursuit."
• ECG: A free Authentic Marvel Infinity Gauntlet Comic was available with a purchase.
• FigPin: A free FigPin lanyard was offered.
• Honda: An exclusive D23 pin was available, along with a video op booth and a special surprise.
• House of Sillage: Gold Members received a Disney x House of Sillage Reusable Tote Bag with a 10% discount. Disney+ subscribers received the tote bag with a 5% discount.
• Pinnacle by Dapper Labs: Gold and Disney+ members received a free Mystery Capsule containing an open edition digital pin.
• Rock Em Socks: A free gift was available with a purchase.
• RSVLTS: Gold and Disney+ members received a free exclusive Kunu Kooler.
• Steiff: Gold members received an exclusive gift with a purchase.
• Sunglass Hut: With a purchase, Gold and Disney+ members received a free jumbo pin featuring Mickey and Minnie.
• Veve: Gold members received a 3D digital collectible of the D23 logo with a premium finish, while general members received a standard version. Disney+ subscribers could also redeem a special limited edition 3D digital collectible logo.
• Disney Visa Cards Chase Fan Experience: Gold and Disney+ members received a complimentary Disney Lanyard Charm.

Discounts and Special Purchases

In addition to free gifts, many sponsors offered exclusive discounts. These discounts often required proof of D23 Gold or Disney+ membership.

• Disney Fine Art and Cyclops Print Works by Collectors Editions: 20% off all purchases of Limited Edition artwork at the D23 Expo location.
• Girls Crew: 10% discount.
• Her Universe: $10 off total purchase only at the HU booth.
• Iron Studios: Gold Members received 10% off an item at the booth, and Disney+ subscribers received 10% off an item on the website.
• Lionel Trains: Gold Members received 20% off a D23 exclusive locomotive, and Disney+ subscribers received 10% off the same item.
• Rocklove: Exclusive charm styles were available.
• Swarovski: Gold and Disney+ members received 20% off a purchase, and all D23 attendees received 15% off a purchase.
• Thomas Kinkade: Gold and Disney+ members could purchase a Brushstroke Vignette for $199, compared to a retail price of $399.

Navigating the Expo for Freebies

Successfully obtaining freebies and offers at the D23 Expo requires planning and preparation. The event features over 250 presentations, panels, concerts, demonstrations, and meet-and-greets. The D23 app is a critical tool for planning, as it contains the complete schedule and show floor map. Attendees are advised to favorite all events of interest, even if there are schedule conflicts, as long lines and capacity limits often prevent attendees from accessing all desired sessions.

The event is characterized by extensive lines and potential delays. Attendees should be prepared for congestion and wait times for popular panels, restrooms, and vendor booths. The "OFFER SPOT" signs are key to locating sponsor booths with freebies and discounts. To ensure eligibility, attendees should have their D23 membership card (physical or virtual screenshot) or Disney+ subscription proof readily available.

Conclusion

The D23 Expo offers a significant opportunity for attendees to receive free items, exclusive merchandise, and substantial discounts from Disney and its partners. The availability of these offers is largely contingent on membership status, with D23 Gold Members and Disney+ subscribers receiving the most extensive benefits. Key freebies include event essentials like guides and lanyards, panel-specific items like pins and hats, and exclusive gifts for members, such as the Sorcerer Mickey pin. Success in obtaining these items requires careful planning using the D23 app, readiness to show proof of membership, and patience in navigating the large crowds and long lines that are characteristic of the event. The information presented is based on attendee reports from the 2019 D23 Expo, and specific offers may vary for future events.

Sources

1. What I got for free at D23!
2. D23 Offers for Gold and Disney+
3. D23 Expo Announcements
4. D23 Expo Survival Guide