D23: The Official Disney Fan Club is bringing back one of its most beloved events. Marceline Magic, the immersive celebration held in Walt Disney’s childhood hometown of Marceline, Missouri, is returning September 18 and 19, 2026, to mark a very special milestone: the 125th birthday of Walt Disney himself. Disney Legend Bill Farmer, the iconic voice of Goofy, will serve as the event’s special host throughout the weekend.
Walt Disney’s 125th Birthday
Walt was born on December 5, 1901, making 2026 his 125th anniversary year. D23 has framed the return of Marceline Magic as part of its year-long celebration, Walt Disney: 125 Years of Inspiration. This year’s event promises more stops than ever before, a record 25 locations throughout Marceline, each with a meaningful connection to Walt’s life and creative legacy.
What The Event Includes
The weekend kicks off the evening of September 18 in Chillicothe, Missouri, Marceline’s sister city, with a hosted Sweets and Sips welcome reception. On September 19, guests travel together to Marceline for a full day of storytelling and exploration. Highlights among the 25 stops include the Walt Disney Hometown Museum (celebrating its own 25th anniversary this year), the Walt Disney Post Office, Walt Disney Elementary School, and the Santa Fe Museum. At each stop, guests will receive a piece of a collectible souvenir that, once assembled from all 25 pieces, forms a unique commemorative gift representing Marceline and Walt’s boyhood years there.
The day concludes at the Walt Disney Family Farm, the actual property where the Disney family lived starting in 1906 and where Walt found the deepest roots of his imagination. The evening finale features a conversation with Bill Farmer, live entertainment, food and drinks, photo opportunities, and a “kiss goodnight” fireworks show over the farm.
A Big Year For Walt Disney’s Legacy
The 125th birthday is arriving at a moment when Disney is celebrating Walt’s legacy across multiple fronts. Walt famously said that Marceline influenced everything he ever did, particularly his love of small-town American life that found its way into Main Street USA at every Disney park around the world. Visiting Marceline is as close as a Disney fan can get to understanding where it all began.
Tickets are priced at $399 (plus a $3 processing fee) for D23 Gold Members and are available now at D23.com. Quantities are extremely limited. Hotel is not included, but special rates will be shared with ticket holders after purchase. For more D23 news, check out our coverage of the D23 Black Flame Ball returning to Salem this fall.
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