Passion, Profit, and the Spirit of D23

Let me start by saying that this blog is not meant to judge anyone. The Disney community is filled with incredible people, including collectors, traders, buyers, and sellers. Many of us participate in the hobby differently, and that's okay. My intention isn't to point fingers, but to share some personal thoughts about a side of D23 and Disney collecting that I've found increasingly difficult to reconcile with the values that Walt Disney inspired.
Every two years, Disney fans from around the world gather in California for D23. It's a celebration of storytelling, imagination, creativity, and the community that Disney has built over generations. For many of us, it is more than an event. It's a chance to connect with people who share the same passion and love for Disney.
But there is one aspect of the event that I have struggled with more and more over the years.
Limited edition merchandise, particularly collectible pins, has become a major focus for some attendees. It is not uncommon to see a pin purchased for $50 and then offered for resale just hours later for $200, $300, or even $500, depending on the character or rarity. While reselling is not new, and people certainly have the right to collect, trade, and sell their items, the culture surrounding it can sometimes feel disappointing.
What troubles me is not the selling itself. It is the mindset that can emerge when profit becomes the primary goal. When fans wait in long lines hoping to purchase a special item, only to discover that it was bought primarily for immediate resale at a significant markup, the experience can start to feel less like a celebration of fandom and more like a marketplace.
I say this with respect because I know many wonderful people who participate in this side of the hobby. Many are passionate Disney fans, and I do not question their love for Disney. My concern is less about individuals and more about a trend that I believe is worth discussing.
When I think about Disney, I think about what Walt Disney set out to create: a place where families could come together, where wonder, imagination, and joy were available to everyone regardless of age. The parks, films, and events were built around shared experiences and lasting memories. At its best, Disney brings people together.
That is why the growing focus on exclusivity and profit can sometimes feel at odds with that vision. When collectible items become financial opportunities first and fan experiences second, something important risks being lost.
D23 remains an incredible event filled with talented creators, dedicated fans, and unforgettable moments. My concern is not with the event itself, but with a culture that can occasionally place dollar signs ahead of community. I hope we can continue encouraging an environment where collecting is driven by passion, appreciation, and shared excitement rather than by the pursuit of the highest markup.
There will always be another pin, another event, and another opportunity. Don't let fear of missing out convince you to spend beyond your means. Disney magic isn't found in owning everything. It's found in enjoying the journey.