The Walt Disney Company has announced a comprehensive, company-wide initiative, "Disney Celebrates America," to mark the 250th anniversary of the United States. This extensive program will span from Veterans Day 2025 through the July 4, 2026 weekend, featuring special programming, new attractions, and significant community contributions.
The celebration aims to highlight America's journey, its diverse people, and unique landscapes, fostering patriotism across generations through Disney's signature storytelling and innovative experiences. The company emphasizes its role as a pillar of American imagination and optimism.
Key Takeaways
- Disney's 250th anniversary celebration runs from Veterans Day 2025 to July 4, 2026.
- New "Soarin' Across America" attractions will debut at Disneyland and EPCOT.
- A 24-hour multi-platform broadcast will culminate the festivities on July 4, 2026.
- Disney is donating $2.5 million to Blue Star Families to support military members.
- Special patriotic merchandise and military offers will be available.
Coast-to-Coast Park Experiences and New Attractions
Both Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida will host special events. A major highlight is the summer 2026 debut of "Soarin' Across America." This reimagined immersive flight experience will be available at the popular Soarin' attractions in Disney California Adventure Park and EPCOT. Guests will embark on a breathtaking journey showcasing the country's natural beauty and iconic cityscapes.
Did You Know?
The original Soarin' Over California attraction opened in 2001, offering guests a simulated hang-gliding tour of California's landmarks. Its popularity led to the creation of Soarin' Around the World.
Beyond new attractions, the beloved fireworks show, "Disney's Celebrate America! — A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky," will extend its run. It will play across all three nights of the holiday weekend, July 3-5, at both Disneyland and Magic Kingdom Park, offering more opportunities for guests to experience the patriotic display.
Extensive Broadcast Coverage and Special Programming
The celebration will reach its peak on the July 4, 2026 weekend with a 24-hour, multi-platform broadcast titled "Disney Celebrates America." This broadcast will highlight anniversary events from across the nation, airing on Disney's linear networks and streaming platforms.
- Disney+
- Hulu
- ABC
- ESPN
- Freeform
- FX
- National Geographic
The day-long coverage will conclude with a special evening fireworks broadcast directly from Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort.
"At its heart, America’s story is one of imagination, ambition, and possibility – the same ideals that have guided Disney since the beginning," said Robert A. Iger, Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company. "This celebration honors both a nation and a spirit that never stop dreaming about what’s next."
David Muir, anchor and managing editor of "World News Tonight with David Muir," will lead the extensive coverage. He will be joined by ABC News anchors, ESPN commentators, and National Geographic Explorers reporting from various locations across the country. The broadcast will feature entertainers, athletes, and historians, all coming together to spotlight the American spirit.
Cross-Company Activations and Storytelling
Various Disney brands will contribute to the celebration with unique content and initiatives:
ABC's "Good Morning America"
The popular "50 States in 50 Weeks" series, which began earlier this year, will continue. It will highlight unforgettable places and people throughout the nation, showcasing the diverse fabric of America.
National Geographic's "America in Superlatives"
This series will feature National Geographic storytellers and photographers across all platforms. They will explore unique places and events from around the United States, offering surprising and inspiring stories that define what makes America special.
ESPN's "America's Team"
ESPN will premiere a new SportsCenter segment, "America's Team." This segment will involve a cross-country search to determine which team best embodies the country's spirit. Additionally, ESPN will provide special patriotic programming across its flagship platforms, including exclusive live coverage of the 2026 Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest on July 4.
ABC News Studios Primetime Special
In June 2026, ABC News Studios will present a two-hour primetime special. This program will journey through the heart of the nation, bringing to life the spirit of iconic locales like New Orleans and the American frontier. It will connect audiences to the extraordinary people, places, histories, and traditions that make America unique, often drawing parallels to beloved Disney Parks lands.
Honoring Veterans and Military Families
Disney is extending its long-standing commitment to U.S. military service members, veterans, and their families. This commitment has been a core part of the company's story since its inception.
Disney's Military Legacy
Walt Disney himself served in the American Ambulance Corps during World War I. The company has a rich history of supporting the military, from creating morale-boosting films during wartime to offering special benefits to service members and their families today.
The company is expanding its relationship with Blue Star Families, a non-profit organization, through a $2.5 million donation. This funding aims to strengthen military families nationwide. As part of this collaboration, Disney and Blue Star Families will continue to create unique events and experiences. This includes a special celebration for their 25th "Blue Star Books" event, which promotes reading and play among military families.
Additional initiatives for military families include:
- Invitations to special movie screenings of new releases on military bases and in key markets across the U.S.
- Live coverage from ABC News of celebrations and activations featuring veterans and active military service members stationed globally.
- Coverage of other milestones throughout the anniversary year on Disney's various platforms.
In November, Disney Experiences will unveil 2026 offers for eligible service members. These offers will apply to Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, and Disney Cruise Line, recognizing their service and celebrating America's 250th anniversary.
Furthermore, Disney will expand its use of the US Chamber Corporate Fellowship and Skillbridge programs. These programs provide networking opportunities, professional training, and hands-on experience for military veterans transitioning into the civilian workforce.
Merchandise and Future Announcements
Disney Consumer Products will introduce a new special military-inspired assortment, now available at select locations across Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, while supplies last. Additionally, beginning in May 2026, an array of Americana merchandise, including items commemorating America’s milestone anniversary, will be available for purchase at Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, and DisneyStore.com.
More information on these and other "Disney Celebrates America" activations, programming, and offerings will be released in the coming weeks. Disney invites families everywhere to reflect on the nation's past, celebrate its present, and imagine its future together.
