The Walt Disney Company has announced a new initiative “Disney
Celebrates America” in celebration of our nation’s 250th
anniversary.
Running through the 4th
of July weekend, the celebration brings together Disney’s brands and platforms
to honor America.
“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, former Chief Executive Officer, The Walt
Disney Company in a statement. “This celebration honors both a nation and a
spirit that never stop dreaming about what’s next.”
LA Fleet Week at Disneyland
Disneyland Resort marked Los Angeles Fleet Week and the 250th
anniversary of the United States Navy and the Marine Corps. Guests on Main
Street applauded service members as they marched down the street and included
the largest U.S. Navy band ever to perform at Disneyland along with and a
moving flag retreat ceremony.
A patriotic performance by the Navy Band Southwest was
capped off with a thunderous flyover by the U.S. Navy F/A-18E Super Hornets
from the “Mighty Shrikes” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 94 from Naval Air
Station Lemoore. Throughout the day, service members enjoyed classic Disney
attractions followed by a “Wondrous Journeys” nighttime spectacular.
Portraits of Courage Extended
Portraits of Courage: A Commander in Chief’s Tribute to
American Warriors at the American Adventure Pavilion in EPCOT has been extended
through the July 4th weekend. The art exhibit features more than 60
vibrant oil paintings by former U.S. President George W. Bush, portraying post-9/11
service members and veterans.
Soarin’ Across America
Disneyland Resort and Walt
Disney World Resort also announced the summer 2026 opening of Soarin’
Across America, taking guests on a breathtaking journey featuring America’s
natural beauty and iconic landscapes.
More Celebratory Moments and Activations
- ABC’s “Good Morning America” continues its “50
States in 50 Weeks” series, highlighting unforgettable places and people across
the nation.
- National Geographic’s “America in Superlatives”
series features a range of National Geographic storytellers and photographers
highlighting unique places and events from around the U.S.
- 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.
- In June 2026, ABC News Studios will present a
two-hour primetime special that journeys through the heart of our nation – from
New Orleans and the American frontier through the lands of Disney Parks.
- Beyond Independence Day, the 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.
Veterans, Military, and Families
Throughout the yearly celebration, Disney will continue its
proud legacy of supporting U.S. military service members, veterans, and their
families. This includes:
- Expanding its long-standing partnership with the
nonprofit Blue Star Families with a $2.5 million donation to help strengthen
military and veteran families across the country.
- Military families will be invited to attend
special movie screenings of new releases on military bases and in key markets
throughout the U.S.
- ABC News will provide live coverage of
celebrations and activations featuring veterans and active military service
members stationed around the world throughout the anniversary year.
- 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.
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