Walt Disney World Resort has lowered American flags to half-staff across its properties. This action honors former Vice President Dick Cheney, who passed away on November 3, 2025. The directive aligns with a federal proclamation for flags to be flown at half-staff.
Reporters observed flags at half-staff at both Disney's Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom this morning. While Disney is a private entity, it often follows federal guidelines for flag protocols during national periods of mourning.
Key Takeaways
- American flags at Walt Disney World are at half-staff.
- This honors former Vice President Dick Cheney, who died November 3, 2025.
- The action follows a federal proclamation from President Trump.
- Disney typically observes national flag protocols despite being private property.
Flags Lowered Across Disney Properties
Visitors to Walt Disney World Resort today will notice American flags flying at half-staff. This change is visible at various locations, including the main entrances to theme parks. The gesture is a mark of respect following the death of former Vice President Dick Cheney.
Dick Cheney served as the 46th Vice President of the United States. He held this office from 2001 to 2009 under President George W. Bush. His passing at the age of 84 marks the end of a long career in public service.
Fact File
- Name: Richard Bruce Cheney
- Born: January 30, 1941
- Died: November 3, 2025
- Vice President: 2001-2009 (under President George W. Bush)
- Other Roles: Secretary of Defense, White House Chief of Staff, U.S. Representative
Federal Proclamation Directs Flag Protocol
President Trump issued a proclamation ordering all American flags throughout the U.S. to be flown at half-staff. This directive began on November 4, 2025, and will continue through the period of interment for Vice President Cheney. The exact date of interment has not yet been publicly announced.
Private entities like Walt Disney World are not legally bound to follow federal flag proclamations. However, the resort often chooses to observe these national traditions. This demonstrates a consistent approach to honoring national figures and events.
"The lowering of flags at Disney World reflects a long-standing tradition of the resort aligning itself with national periods of mourning and respect for prominent figures in American history."
Observation at Theme Parks
Our reporters visited two of Disney's major theme parks this morning. At Disney's Hollywood Studios, the large American flag outside the park entrance was clearly at half-staff. The same was true for the flag displayed at Animal Kingdom.
These observations confirm that the policy is being implemented across multiple locations within the vast Disney property. The flags serve as a visible symbol of national remembrance.
Historical Precedent for Disney's Actions
This is not the first time Walt Disney World has lowered its flags in honor of a notable individual. The resort has a history of observing national periods of mourning.
In recent years, flags at Disney World were also lowered following the passing of other significant figures. These included Charlie Kirk, Pope Francis, and former President Jimmy Carter. Each instance reflects Disney's practice of acknowledging national and international moments of loss.
Understanding Flag Protocol
Flying a flag at half-staff (or half-mast on a ship) is a tradition dating back centuries. It signals mourning, distress, or a salute to the dead. In the United States, the President or a state governor can issue proclamations for flags to be flown at half-staff. This typically occurs for national tragedies, deaths of prominent government officials, or other significant events.
Impact on Visitors and Resort Operations
The lowering of flags is a subtle but noticeable change for guests visiting Walt Disney World. It serves as a visual reminder of a national event within the typically vibrant atmosphere of the parks.
Resort operations continue as normal. The flag protocol is a symbolic gesture, not impacting rides, shows, or other guest experiences. It is a quiet moment of reflection amidst the daily activities of the theme parks.
The decision to follow federal flag protocols underscores Disney's role as a major American institution. It shows a willingness to participate in national expressions of respect, even on private land.
Looking Ahead
The flags will remain at half-staff until Vice President Cheney's interment. This period allows for a sustained national tribute. The exact duration of the half-staff period will depend on the timing of the funeral services.
Further updates regarding the interment schedule will likely determine when the flags return to their full-staff position. For now, the lowered flags stand as a solemn tribute across the magical kingdom.
