Fourth of July Fireworks Expands at Disney World and Disneyland

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October 20, 2025

Disney World & Disneyland Expanding Fourth of July Fireworks for Nation’s 250 Anniversary

Today, The Walt Disney Company announced “Disney Celebrates America,” a company-wide celebration commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States. Beginning on Veterans Day 2025 and culminating on the July 4, 2026 weekend, Disney will feature special programming, storytelling, and experiences across its iconic brands and businesses to celebrate the nation’s remarkable journey, spotlight the people and places that make this country so unique, and inspire patriotism in every generation.

As a pillar of American storytelling, innovation, and imagination, the company will bring the semiquincentennial to life in uniquely Disney ways, leaning into the dreams, stories, and optimism that have touched the lives of people across the country and around the world for the past century. Disney will spotlight and celebrate the nation’s many vibrant communities and expansive landscapes, encouraging audiences and guests to discover the people and places that have shaped America for the last 250 years.

Disney CEO Bob Iger said:

At its heart, America’s story is one of imagination, ambition, and possibility – the same ideals that have guided Disney since the beginning. This celebration honors both a nation and a spirit that never stop dreaming about what’s next.

Fourth of July Fireworks Expands at Disney World and Disneyland

Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort will celebrate coast to coast with the summer 2026 opening of “Soarin’ Across America,” an immersive new flight experience aboard the beloved Soarin’ attractions at Disney California Adventure Park and EPCOT. “Soarin’ Across America” will take guests on a breathtaking journey, highlighting some of the country’s natural beauty and iconic cityscapes.

To mark the occasion, both Disneyland and Walt Disney World will feature expanded patriotic offerings. Most notably, the Fourth of July fireworks spectacular will be presented for three consecutive nights—July 3, 4, and 5, 2026—at both Magic Kingdom Park and Disneyland Park.

The celebration will culminate on the July 4th weekend with a 24-hour, multi-platform broadcast, “Disney Celebrates America,” highlighting America’s 250th anniversary events nationwide across Disney’s linear networks and streaming platforms, including Disney+, Hulu, ABC, ESPN, Freeform, FX and National Geographic, ending with a special evening fireworks broadcast from Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort. David Muir, anchor and managing editor of “World News Tonight with David Muir,” is set to lead the daylong coverage, accompanied by ABC News anchors and correspondents, iconic ESPN commentators and National Geographic Explorers reporting from across the country for this once-in-a-lifetime presentation featuring top entertainers, athletes and historians — all coming together to spotlight the wonder, achievements and dreams that define the American spirit.

More Cross-Company Celebrations

ABC’s “Good Morning America” will continue its popular “50 States in 50 Weeks” series, which kicked off earlier this year, highlighting unforgettable places and people across the nation.
National Geographic’s “America in Superlatives” series will feature, across all platforms, a range of National Geographic storytellers and photographers highlighting unique places and events from around the United States, offering surprising and inspiring stories that explore what makes America special.
ESPN will premiere a new SportsCenter segment, “America’s Team,” a cross-country search to find out which team most embodies the country, plus special patriotic programming across its flagship platforms, including exclusive live coverage of the 2026 Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest on July 4.
In June 2026, ABC News Studios will present a two-hour primetime special that journeys through the heart of our nation — where the real-life spirit of iconic locales like New Orleans and the American frontier comes alive through the beloved lands of Disney Parks, connecting audiences to the extraordinary people, places, histories, and traditions that make America unique.
Expanding beyond Independence Day, the beloved fireworks show “Disney’s Celebrate America! — A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky,” will play across all three nights of the holiday weekend, July 3 – 5, at both Disneyland and Magic Kingdom Park.
Disney Consumer Products will once again honor our nation’s heroes with a new special military-inspired assortment now available at select locations across Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, while supplies last. In addition, debuting in May 2026, an array of Americana merchandise, including select items commemorating America’s milestone anniversary, will be available for purchase at Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, and DisneyStore.com.

Veterans and Military Families

Throughout the celebration, Disney will continue its legacy of honoring U.S. military service members, veterans, and their families — a commitment that has been part of the company’s story since its founding.

Disney is expanding its longstanding relationship with Blue Star Families through a $2.5 million donation to help strengthen military families across the country. As part of this, Disney and Blue Star Families will continue to create unique events and experiences, including a special celebration marking our 25th “Blue Star Books” event, which brings military families together through the joy of reading and play.

Additionally:

Disney will invite Military families across the US to attend special movie screenings of new releases on military bases and in key markets throughout the US.
ABC News will provide live coverage of celebrations and activations featuring veterans and active military service members stationed around the world. Disney’s platforms will cover additional milestones throughout the anniversary year.
In November, Disney Experiences will unveil 2026 offers available at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, and Disney Cruise Line for eligible service members in appreciation of their service and in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
Disney will expand its use of the US Chamber Corporate Fellowship and Skillbridge programs, providing networking, professional training and hands-on experience for military veterans entering the civilian workforce.

To learn more about Disney’s legacy of support for veterans and military families, click here.

More information on these and additional Disney Celebrates America activations, programming, and offerings from across the company will be released over the coming weeks.

From the company’s earliest days, Disney has shared stories that bring people together and celebrate the spirit that defines America. As we mark this historic milestone, Disney invites families everywhere to reflect on where we’ve been, celebrate who we are, and imagine the extraordinary future we can create together.

Disney to Launch “Celebrates America” Event for Nation’s 250th Anniversary

By

Chip

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October 20, 2025

Disney Celebrating America Announced for America’s 250th Anniversary

The Walt Disney Company has announced “Disney Celebrates America” a massive, year-long initiative to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. Kicking off on Veterans Day 2025 and culminating on the July 4, 2026, weekend, the event will span all of the company’s brands and platforms.

“At its heart, America’s story is one of imagination, ambition, and possibility – the same ideals that have guided Disney since the beginning,” said CEO Robert A. Iger, noting the celebration honors a spirit of dreaming about “what’s next.”

Disney to Launch "Celebrates America" Event for Nation's 250th Anniversary

The celebration will be anchored by the debut of “Soarin’ Across America” in Summer 2026. This new, immersive flight experience will replace the current film at both EPCOT and Disney California Adventure, taking guests on a journey over America’s natural wonders and cityscapes to honor the nation’s semiquincentennial.

The festivities will culminate in a 24-hour, multi-platform broadcast, “Disney Celebrates America,” on the July 4th weekend. Led by “World News Tonight” anchor David Muir, the event will air across Disney+, Hulu, ABC, ESPN, and National Geographic, ending with a special fireworks broadcast from both Disneyland and Walt Disney World.

Other cross-company activations include:

An expanded three-night run (July 3-5) of the “Disney’s Celebrate America!” fireworks at Magic Kingdom and Disneyland.
New patriotic programming from ESPN, including live coverage of the 2026 Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest.
A two-hour primetime special from ABC News Studios in June 2026, connecting Disney Parks’ themed lands to the real-life history of America.
Continuation of “Good Morning America’s” “50 States in 50 Weeks” series.
New Americana merchandise, including a military-inspired assortment, will be released in 2026.

As part of the initiative, Disney will also expand its long-standing support for the U.S. military by donating $2.5 million to Blue Star Families. The company will also unveil new 2026 vacation offers for service members at its resorts and on Disney Cruise Line. More details are expected to be released in the coming weeks.

New Soarin Across America Coming to Disney World and Disneyland

By

Chip

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October 20, 2025

New ‘Soarin’ Across America’ Attraction Coming to Disney Parks in Summer 2026

The fan-favorite attraction Soarin’ will receive an all-new flight path, as Disney has announced “Soarin’ Across America” is coming to its U.S. parks. The new experience will debut in Summer 2026 at both EPCOT in Walt Disney World Resort and Disney California Adventure park at the Disneyland Resort.

New Soarin Across America Coming to Disney World and Disneyland

According to the announcement, the new bi-coastal offering will showcase the United States “from sea to shining sea,” highlighting some of the country’s most breathtaking natural beauty and iconic cityscapes. Disney confirmed that the experience will retain the classic elements that make the attraction unforgettable, including the immersive flight motion, a new grand musical score, and location-specific scents.

The Summer 2026 premiere is timed to honor the heart and spirit of the nation as it soars into its 250th birthday celebration. Guests at both parks will be able to take part in the new journey.

Walt Disney Imagineering is currently in production, capturing more than a dozen new, breathtaking locations across the country for the new flight path.

First Night of Jollywood Nights in 2025 Sells Out

By

Sara

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October 20, 2025

First Jollywood Night of 2025 is Officially Sold Out

The inaugural night of Disney’s Jollywood Nights 2025 is officially sold out. With Disney World’s highly anticipated holiday season drawing near, guests who missed out on tickets for the first evening will now have to select an alternative date to experience the event.

Disney Jollywood Nights is an exclusive, after-hours holiday celebration at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This limited-capacity event masterfully blends classic vintage Hollywood flair with brand-new, seasonal entertainment. Guests can enjoy twinkling lights, festive décor, unique character interactions, and event-exclusive food and beverage offerings. The magic unfolds on select nights between November 8 and December 22, 2025.

Saturday, November 8 (SOLD OUT)
Saturday, November 15
Monday, November 17
Saturday, November 22
Monday, November 24
Saturday, November 29

Monday, December 1
Saturday, December 6
Wednesday, December 10
Saturday, December 13
Wednesday, December 17
Saturday, December 20
Monday, December 22

First Night of Jollywood Nights in 2025 Sells Out

While tickets remain for the other event dates, guests should act fast—they likely won’t last long! Disney Jollywood Nights offers a vastly different experience from the traditional Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom, featuring exclusive shows, rare character encounters, and unique holiday choreography that gives it a distinct, sophisticated vibe.

The 2025 event is packed with memorable experiences. Guests will be surrounded by sparkling decorations and glamorous touches across Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Highlights include the new Glisten! ice skating spectacular on Hollywood Boulevard, the return of Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!, and the highly anticipated Holidays in Hollywood Stage Show featuring Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy. Plus, you can join Jack Skellington for The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along, capture the perfect photo with 20+ Disney characters in their Christmas attire, and enjoy tasty, event-exclusive snacks, sweets, and shimmering sips throughout the evening.

Will you be attending Jollywood Nights?

Disney Making Fast Work of Animation Courtyard Demolition in Hollywood Studios

By

Chris B

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October 19, 2025

Disney Making Fast Work of Animation Courtyard Demolition in Hollywood Studios

Disney Making Fast Work of Animation Courtyard Demolition at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Demolition continues at full speed inside Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where new aerial photos from @bioreconstruct show crews making quick progress clearing out the Animation Courtyard area. What was once home to Disney Junior Live on Stage! and Star Wars Launch Bay is being quickly demolished, with several debris bins present as Disney prepares the site for its next big project.

The demolition officially began after the area closed to guests on September 24, marking the start of a full reimagining that will turn Animation Courtyard into an all-new area themed to The Walt Disney Studios. While much of the space is behind walls, the new photos reveal extensive clearing around the former Launch Bay complex and surrounding walkways—just as concept art had promised.

According to Disney, the reimagined space will bring back the beloved Magic of Disney Animation, the park’s opening-day attraction that once showcased real Disney animators at work before closing in 2015. The new version, opening in 2026, will feature a vibrant Sorcerer’s Hat façade modeled after the Roy E. Disney Animation Building in Burbank and will blend the charm of classic animation with interactive experiences inspired by the Emmy-winning short Once Upon a Studio.

Inside, guests will explore whimsical “studio departments” where animated characters have taken over the workspace. Expect living portraits, creative play zones, and even an Alice in Wonderland-themed indoor playground called Drawn to Wonderland, featuring Mary Blair–inspired design, musical flowers, and a Mad Tea Party–style playset. Character meet and greets will also return in full force throughout the new space.

The refreshed land, officially renamed The Walt Disney Studios, will replace the old Animation Courtyard archway with a more open entrance, offering a clear view into a central park-like hub filled with trees, character spaces, and shaded seating. The theater housing The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure will remain open and untouched during construction, allowing guests to continue to enjoy this show as work continues on the rest of the courtyard.

Once again, huge thanks to @bioreconstruct for capturing these incredible aerial views that give us a front-row seat to the transformation happening at Hollywood Studios.

Last Track from Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Demolition Visible in Universal Studios

By

Chris B

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October 19, 2025

Last Track from Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Demolition Visible in Universal Studios

Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit Demolition Nearly Complete

Universal Studios Florida is officially saying goodbye to one of its most recognizable icons. New aerial photos from @bioreconstruct reveal that the last remaining section of track from Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit has now been torn down, marking the complete demolition of the high-speed roller coaster that dominated the park’s skyline for 15 years.

Rip Ride Rockit officially closed on August 18, and Universal wasted no time revving up demolition crews. Within weeks, the towering lift hill and bright red track were methodically dismantled, leaving behind a wide construction zone stretching from the Music Plaza Stage to the Hard Rock Cafe entrance at CityWalk. The new aerials show construction vehicles hard at work clearing debris and installing new infrastructure for what’s next.

According to site schematics submitted through public permits, the yet-to-be-named replacement attraction will also be a roller coaster—though its footprint appears larger than Rip Ride Rockit’s based on current construction. Several concrete footers are already visible in the cleared areas, hinting that early foundational work for the new coaster is well underway. The boundaries of the project now extend further toward the lagoon, indicating a reimagined layout that could take better advantage of the park’s available space.

While Universal has yet to announce any details or theming for the replacement, the pace of progress suggests the company is moving full speed ahead—no pit stops in sight. The removal of Rockit’s final track section officially closes one chapter of Universal Orlando history, but the groundwork being laid makes it clear that something thrilling is already racing toward the future.

Once again, huge thanks to @bioreconstruct for capturing these incredible aerial shots that give fans a bird’s-eye view of Universal’s evolving skyline.

Aerial View of Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America Demolition at Magic Kingdom

By

Chris B

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October 19, 2025

Aerial View of Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America Demolition at Magic Kingdom 1

Aerial Photos Reveal Complete Demolition of Tom Sawyer Island Structures at Magic Kingdom

It’s the end of an era on the Rivers of America — and thanks to incredible new aerial photos from the one and only @bioreconstruct, we now have our clearest look yet at just how far demolition has progressed on Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom. Spoiler alert: every single building is gone.

Aerial View of Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America Demolition at Magic Kingdom

Once home to rustic cabins, winding caves, and the beloved Potters’ Mill, the entire island complex now looks like a bare construction site as Disney clears the way for the park’s largest expansion ever. From above, you can see the southern island (traditionally known as Tom Sawyer Island) stripped of every structure, while the northern island — home to the former Fort Langhorn — has been completely leveled as well. Even some of the island’s signature cave systems have started to crumble under the excavators’ reach.

According to Disney, the decision to redevelop the Rivers of America area came from a desire to revitalize what they described as an “underutilized space.” The result? Two massive new lands — one themed to Pixar’s Cars franchise called Piston Peak National Park, and another darkly delightful Villains Land that will stretch toward the former Fort Langhorn site.

The new aerials by Bioreconstruct show the cleared footprint that will one day host Lightning McQueen’s scenic stomping grounds, likely filled with pine forests, red rock cliffs, and roaring engines instead of rowboats and wooden bridges. Potters’ Mill — once the most recognizable structure on the island — is now completely gone, leaving nothing but dirt trails and construction access roads in its place.

While it’s bittersweet for longtime fans of the classic Mark Twain-inspired attraction, the transformation promises to bring some serious horsepower to Frontierland’s future. Between Piston Peak’s national park aesthetic and the gothic grandeur teased for Villains Land, this corner of Magic Kingdom could soon become one of the most immersive and varied expansions in park history.

Volkswagen Partners with Walt Disney Animation Studios for ‘Zootopia 2’ Release

By

Chris B

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October 18, 2025

Volkswagen Partners with Walt Disney Animation Studios for 'Zootopia ' Release

Volkswagen Goes Full “Wolfswagen” in Disney’s Zootopia 2

Start your engines, Zootopia fans — Volkswagen is heading back to the big screen! The automaker has announced a global collaboration with Walt Disney Animation Studios for the release of Zootopia 2, speeding into theaters November 26.

As part of the partnership, Volkswagen will appear in the film as “Wolfswagen” — a playful nod to the brand’s hometown of Wolfsburg, Germany. Three custom-animated vehicles inspired by Volkswagen’s all-electric ID. models (the ID.3, ID.4, and ID.7 Tourer) will make cameo appearances throughout the movie, seamlessly blending into the animal metropolis’ sleek city streets.

To kick off the collaboration, Volkswagen released a Zootopia 2-themed 30-second spot showcasing its “Zootopified” designs alongside the debut of Gazelle’s new song “Zoo.” The ad will roll out worldwide across TV, theaters, and social media as part of a major 360° campaign.

Christine Wolburg, Volkswagen’s Chief Brand Officer, shared that emotional storytelling is key to reaching new audiences: “‘Zootopia 2’ shows how important it is to question prejudices and break new ground together — values that Volkswagen also embodies. We’re thrilled to ‘Zootopify’ our brand in such a funny and meaningful way.”

This isn’t the first time Volkswagen has cruised into Disney territory — previous collaborations include the Star Wars series Obi-Wan Kenobi and Marvel’s Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania. But this one might just be the most charming yet, with the automaker rolling into the whimsical world of Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, and Gazelle.

Zootopia 2 brings back the Oscar-winning directing duo Byron Howard and Jared Bush, with a voice cast that includes Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Ke Huy Quan, Idris Elba, and Shakira. The story sees Judy and Nick going undercover once more, this time to solve a mystery that will test their partnership like never before.

Hollywood Studios Archway Completely Demolished

By

Chris B

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October 18, 2025

Hollywood Studios Archway Completely Demolished

Animation Courtyard Arch Demolished Overnight at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

In a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moment of Disney history, the iconic Animation Courtyard arch at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has been completely demolished—seemingly overnight.

Disney Hollywood Studios Removes Animation Courtyard from Park Maps — The iconic arch has been removed from Hollywood Studios

The arch, which once framed the walkway into Animation Courtyard and proudly displayed the Disney’s Hollywood Studios logo, was one of the last remaining landmarks of the park’s earlier identity as a celebration of movie-making magic. As of the morning of October 18, the structure is gone, with construction walls now blocking off the area where it once stood.

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The removal comes as part of the park’s ongoing reimagining of Animation Courtyard, which closed to guests on September 24. The area is being transformed into a newly themed Walt Disney Studios district, centered around a reimagined version of The Magic of Disney Animation—a callback to the park’s opening day attraction that was replaced by Star Wars: Launch Bay. The construction walls in the area contain artwork depicting how the new courtyard will look once completed.

While the Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure theater remains open just beyond the construction walls, the rest of Animation Courtyard is now a full-scale work zone. The new layout promises a more open entrance with wider walkways and better sightlines as Hollywood Studios continues evolving from its studio backlot roots into a celebration of cinematic storytelling.

New Breakfast Items at Golden Oak Outpost in the Magic Kingdom

By

Chris B

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October 18, 2025

New Breakfast Items at Golden Oak Outpost in the Magic Kingdom cover

Banana-Caramel Beignets Bring a Sweet Sunrise to Magic Kingdom

Frontierland just got a little sweeter! The Banana-Caramel Beignets at Golden Oak Outpost are the latest must-try treat for guests who like to start their park day with something indulgent.

New Breakfast Items at Golden Oak Outpost in the Magic Kingdom

These fluffy, golden bites come dusted with powdered sugar and topped with sliced bananas and a drizzle of rich caramel sauce. The result? A sweet, sticky, and totally decadent take on the classic beignet that’s sure to satisfy any morning sweet tooth.

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The banana flavor is strong—in the best way—and pairs beautifully with the warm caramel. It’s a combination that feels right at home in Magic Kingdom’s rustic Frontierland, though it might be a little too sugary for those who prefer something lighter before rope drop.

While not quite as airy as the classic New Orleans-style beignets found over at Port Orleans French Quarter, the fruity twist makes this version a standout breakfast dessert. It’s a great grab-and-go pick if you’re looking to treat yourself before your first spin on Big Thunder Mountain.

Abu Statue Returns to its Original Location in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom

By

Chris B

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October 18, 2025

Abu Statue Returns to its Original Location in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom

Abu Swings Back Into Adventureland at Magic Kingdom

It looks like everyone’s favorite little monkey has found his way home again! The mischievous Abu Fab 50 statue has returned to his perch on the Adventureland sign at Magic Kingdom following a recent refurbishment.

The sign itself—adorned with tribal masks, spears, and shields—underwent a facelift earlier this fall, with the original props temporarily removed back in August. After a few weeks of sprucing up, a new banner and refreshed details were installed in mid-September, though eagle-eyed guests noticed Abu had wandered off to a nearby post on the bridge during the work.

Now, the golden monkey is back where he belongs, hanging playfully on the right side of the iconic wooden entryway once more. Originally installed in 2021 as part of Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary “Fab 50” collection, Abu and his shiny friends have remained throughout the parks even as the celebration ended. Their signature “50” medallions were swapped out in 2023 for compass-style tokens that tie into the continuing interactive experience with MagicBand+.

Guests can tap their MagicBand+ near the statues to trigger sounds, spark character interactions, and unlock animations through the Play Disney Parks app. It’s a fun way to let the magic (and mischief) continue as you set off on your next Adventureland journey!

Spaceship Earth Reopens Early at EPCOT After Refurbishment

By

Sara

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October 18, 2025

Surprise! Spaceship Earth Reopens Early at EPCOT

The multi-month refurbishment of Spaceship Earth is officially complete! The iconic EPCOT attraction soft opened to guests earlier than expected this evening, November 18, 2025.

Guests who experienced the unexpected soft opening reported no significant changes to the attraction. The ride itself, including the show scenes and narration, appears identical to how it was before the August closure. However, Spaceship Earth is still officially listed as closed until October 25, 2025, on the Walt Disney World website. It remains unclear if this early operation is the beginning of an unannounced soft reopening or merely a temporary testing phase before the official return later this month.

The refurbishment, which began on August 25, was primarily intended for essential ride system maintenance and behind-the-scenes work, with expectations for only minor updates to the in-vehicle display screens.

Are you excited to ride Spaceship Earth again?