June 26 marks 626 Day, an annual fan-fueled holiday celebrating Disney’s Stitch — also known as Experiment 626 — and the story that has sparked an incredible fandom in people of all ages around the world.
This year, Disney is celebrating the occasion across its segments with new content, special programming, experiences for fans, and a wave of products inspired by the beloved character.
The celebration follows a milestone year for the franchise. In 2025, Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch crossed $1 billion at the global box office, helping introduce the story to a new generation while bringing to life the world of Stitch in an all-new way for longtime fans to experience. A sequel is now in development, with more stories still to come.
The excitement includes the announcement at the 2026 Annecy International Animation Festival of the all-new animated short Lilo & Scratch, from directors Fawn Veerasunthorn and Malcon Pierce, which debuts in theaters this November with Disney’s Hexed. This is the first project starring Stitch from Disney Animation since the 2002 original animated feature. The directors gave a sneak peek at the new short, which features the voices of Chris Sanders, reprising his role as Stitch, and Maia Kealoha, reprising her role as Lilo from the live-action 2025 version of the film.
New Content, Throwbacks, and a Closer Look at Stitch
In addition to Lilo & Scratch, other new and returning content is at the center of this year’s 626 Day.
Disney Animation is sharing behind-the-scenes videos and artist-driven features that explore how Stitch was brought to life, offering fans a closer look at the creative process.
There is also new storytelling. A stylized animated short, Stitch & Angel’s Perfect Summer Day, follows the pair as they set out to create the perfect beach day — only for Stitch’s chaotic energy to get in the way. The short is available now globally on Disney+ and Disney Kids YouTube.