The Walt Disney Company has announced a large-scale celebration marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. The initiative, called “Disney Celebrates America,” will begin on Veterans Day 2025 and run through the July 4, 2026 weekend. The company’s plans include special programming, storytelling, and experiences across its various brands to highlight American history and communities.
Robert A. Iger, Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company, 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.”
Among the highlights is a new attraction titled “Soarin’ Across America.” Opening in summer 2026 at both Disney California Adventure Park and EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort, this ride will take visitors on an aerial tour featuring natural landmarks and major cityscapes across the country.
The festivities will culminate in a 24-hour broadcast event over July 4th weekend in 2026. Titled “Disney Celebrates America,” this multi-platform broadcast will air nationwide across Disney-owned networks such as Disney+, Hulu, ABC, ESPN, Freeform, FX, and National Geographic. David Muir of ABC News will lead coverage alongside other anchors and correspondents from ESPN and National Geographic.
Other elements of the celebration include:
– Continued coverage by ABC’s “Good Morning America” with its “50 States in 50 Weeks” series.
– National Geographic presenting an “America in Superlatives” series to explore unique locations around the country.
– ESPN launching a SportsCenter segment called “America’s Team,” along with live coverage of events like Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest on July 4.
– A two-hour ABC News Studios primetime special connecting audiences to historic American places through stories linked to Disney Parks.
– Extended fireworks shows titled “Disney’s Celebrate America! — A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” from July 3–5 at Disneyland and Magic Kingdom Park.
In addition to entertainment offerings, Disney is focusing on supporting veterans and military families during this period. The company announced it would donate $2.5 million to Blue Star Families to support military families nationwide. Joint events will include celebrations like the 25th “Blue Star Books” event for military families.
Military families are also being invited to attend special movie screenings at bases throughout the U.S., while ABC News will provide live coverage featuring veterans and active service members worldwide. In November, new offers for eligible service members will be introduced at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, and aboard Disney Cruise Line.
Further efforts involve expanding participation in US Chamber Corporate Fellowship and Skillbridge programs aimed at helping veterans transition into civilian careers by providing training opportunities within Disney.
The company states more details about additional activations or programming related to “Disney Celebrates America” will be released in coming weeks.
“As we mark this historic milestone,” reads part of Disney’s announcement statement, “Disney invites families everywhere to reflect on where we’ve been, celebrate who we are, and imagine the extraordinary future we can create together.”
