By the Numbers: Method
How We Counted
Every number on these pages came out of the archive, and most of them needed a decision along the way. This is where we show our work.
Prices
Ticket prices are the advance price. A full-event ticket is the adult pass for every day of the show. Prices in pounds, euros and yen are converted to US dollars using the exchange rate at the time. The "In 2026 dollars" option then adjusts for inflation using the US Consumer Price Index. Autograph and photo op prices are each guest's standard price at the show. Free signings are listed but not included in averages.
Attendance
Some figures were published by the organizer; the rest are estimates reported in the press at the time. The table lists the figure we use for each show.
| Celebration | Figure |
|---|---|
| Celebration I 1999 | 20,000 |
| Celebration II 2002 | 27,000 |
| Celebration III 2005 | 34,000+ |
| Celebration IV 2007 | 35,000 |
| Europe 2007 | 30,000 |
| Japan 2008 | 17,000 |
| Celebration V 2010 | 32,000 |
| Celebration VI 2012 | 35,000 |
| Europe II 2013 | 20,000+ |
| Anaheim 2015 | 60,000 |
| Europe 2016 | 60,000 |
| Orlando 2017 | 70,000 |
| Chicago 2019 | 65,000 |
| Anaheim 2022 | 60,000+ |
| Europe 2023 | 97,000 |
| Japan 2025 | 105,000 |
Guests and panels
Guest counts include everyone who appeared. Canceled appearances are not counted. Each panel is counted once, with repeat sessions shown separately. Pre-show events are not counted.
Predictions
The predictions are based on averages and growth rates from recent Celebrations, with the last five counting most. They are not based on any rumors or inside knowledge, just the numbers.