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Disney Celebrates America Brings Patriotic Magic to the Parks, Screens, and Skies for the Nation’s 250th Anniversary
The Walt Disney Company is rolling out the red, white, and blue in a big way with a sweeping new initiative called Disney Celebrates America, honoring the United States’ 250th anniversary. The celebration began on Veterans Day 2025 and will continue through the July 4, 2026 holiday weekend, blending Disney storytelling with national pride across theme parks, television, streaming, merchandise, and community initiatives.
Related: Disney Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary in 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade
Disney’s goal is to celebrate America’s past, present, and future through stories, experiences, and support for veterans, military families, and communities nationwide. From historic storytelling to modern-day moments, the initiative highlights the imagination, optimism, and ambition that have shaped both the country and Disney itself for more than a century. According to Disney CEO Robert A. Iger, the celebration reflects the same ideals that have guided the company since its earliest days, honoring a nation that never stops dreaming about what comes next.
For theme park fans, the biggest headline lands in Summer 2026 with the debut of Soarin’ Across America at Disney California Adventure and EPCOT. This limited-time update to the beloved attraction will take guests on a breathtaking flight over iconic American landscapes and cityscapes, serving as a patriotic love letter to the country’s natural beauty and innovation. Fireworks fans will also have plenty to celebrate, as “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” will light up the skies at both Disneyland and Magic Kingdom across three nights, July 3 through July 5, instead of just one.
The celebration extends far beyond the parks. On the July 4th weekend, Disney will present a massive 24-hour, multi-platform broadcast titled “Disney Celebrates America,” airing across Disney+, Hulu, ABC, ESPN, National Geographic, and more. The nationwide event will spotlight anniversary celebrations from across the country and conclude with a special fireworks presentation from Walt Disney World and Disneyland. ABC News anchor David Muir will lead the coverage, joined by journalists, ESPN commentators, and National Geographic explorers sharing stories that define the American spirit.
Across Disney’s media brands, special programming will roll out throughout 2026. Good Morning America will continue its “50 States in 50 Weeks” series, National Geographic will highlight extraordinary places through its “America in Superlatives” storytelling, and ESPN will debut a new SportsCenter segment called “America’s Team,” searching for the sports franchise that best embodies the nation. ABC News Studios will also air a primetime special connecting iconic American locations to the real-world inspirations behind Disney park lands.
Merchandise fans can expect a patriotic shopping spree as well. A military-inspired collection is already available at select locations in Walt Disney World and Disneyland, with a broader Americana merchandise line launching in May 2026, including items commemorating the 250th anniversary. These collections will also be available online through DisneyStore.com while supplies last.
Related: Your Ultimate Guide to the runDisney Experience 2026
At the heart of Disney Celebrates America is a renewed commitment to military members, veterans, and their families. Disney is expanding its partnership with Blue Star Families through a $2.5 million donation and will continue offering special events, movie screenings on military bases, and educational programs like Blue Star Books. Additional announcements later in 2026 will reveal new Disney vacation offers for eligible service members, along with expanded career and training opportunities through SkillBridge and corporate fellowship programs.
More details about park experiences, entertainment, and special offerings tied to Disney Celebrates America are expected in the coming weeks. As the countdown to America’s 250th birthday continues, Disney is inviting families everywhere to reflect on where we’ve been, celebrate who we are, and imagine the future together.
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