The Walt Disney Company has announced plans for a large-scale, company-wide celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. The initiative, called “Disney Celebrates America,” will begin on Veterans Day 2025 and run through July 4, 2026.
According to Disney, the event will include special programming and experiences across its various brands and businesses. “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 of The Walt Disney Company. “This celebration honors both a nation and a spirit that never stop dreaming about what’s next.”
As part of the festivities, Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort will debut “Soarin’ Across America” in summer 2026 at Disney California Adventure Park and EPCOT. This new version of the Soarin’ attraction will feature views of U.S. landscapes and cityscapes.
The celebration is set to culminate during the July 4th weekend with a 24-hour multi-platform broadcast titled “Disney Celebrates America.” The broadcast will air on Disney’s networks and streaming platforms such as Disney+, Hulu, ABC, ESPN, Freeform, FX, and National Geographic. David Muir of ABC News will anchor coverage alongside other network personalities.
Additional activities are planned across Disney properties:
– ABC’s “Good Morning America” continues its “50 States in 50 Weeks” series.
– National Geographic launches an “America in Superlatives” series featuring stories from around the country.
– ESPN introduces a new SportsCenter segment called “America’s Team” and provides exclusive coverage of events like the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest on July 4.
– ABC News Studios presents a two-hour primetime special connecting viewers to iconic American locations via Disney Parks.
– Fireworks shows titled “Disney’s Celebrate America! — A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” will be held from July 3–5 at both Disneyland and Magic Kingdom Park.
Disney Consumer Products is releasing military-inspired merchandise at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort locations. An Americana-themed collection commemorating America’s anniversary will also become available starting May 2026 at select parks and online at DisneyStore.com.
Supporting veterans remains central to these plans. The company announced it would expand its relationship with Blue Star Families through a $2.5 million donation to support military families nationwide. Special events are scheduled throughout the year for service members, including movie screenings on military bases and live coverage by ABC News featuring veterans worldwide.
In November, details about offers for eligible service members at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, and Disney Cruise Line for 2026 will be released. Furthermore, Disney intends to broaden its involvement with programs like US Chamber Corporate Fellowship and Skillbridge to help veterans transition into civilian careers.
More information about upcoming activities related to this celebration is expected in the coming weeks.
“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. “This celebration honors both a nation and a spirit that never stop dreaming about what’s next.”
