Disney Memorabilia

In 1992 the first Disneyana convention was held at Walt Disney World in Orlando.  The original event was created in response to the ever-growing sector of Disneyana collectors. 

The convention became an annual event through 2002, and regularly drew thousands of Disney collectors.  The highlight of each event was the unique themed buttons and badges that were given out to each attendee in their welcome kit.  Each convention also featured a limited edition resin figure that was sold through a lottery system.  The limted production and distribution of these pieces made them instant treasures.

2003 marked the end of the Disneyana convention being hosted by the Walt Disney Company.  Although there are numerous rumors as to why the popular tradition was cancelled, most collectors believe it to be the backlash of the many complaints filed about the 2002 show.  Many attendees complained that the 2002 show was held at the Epcot Center as opposed to the traditional theme park.  When the 2003 version was announced as another Epcot event, the complaints poured in.  Most out-of-state collectors incorporated their annual visit to Disney world with the convention, and they wanted the opportunity to experience the full resort instead of one segregated area.  Disney made no official comment on the reason for the cancellation.

It has been five years since the last official Disneyana convention, and the future of the event remains in doubt.  No announcements have been made in regards to future events, and the general consensus is that Disney is still upset over the 2003 backlash.  The NFCC continues to hold their national convention every year, and there are number of regional shows hosted by local chapters of the NFCC.  While these shows are always well supported, it is safe to say that collectors would ultimately like to see the original convention return.  Part of being a Disney collector is to enjoy the hobby with fellow collectors.  There is no better way to do this than with the full sponsorship and support of the Walt Disney Company.

You can view a complete history of the original Disneyana Convention at MouseTreasures.com

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