Disney Celebrates America: How Disney Will Honor the U.S.

It’s not every day that a nation turns 250, and Disney knows how to throw a party. In a January 2 2026 post on the Disney Parks Blog, the company announced “Disney Celebrates America,” a year‑long initiative marking the United States’ 250th anniversary. The celebration kicks off on Veterans Day 2025 and runs through July 4 2026, weaving patriotic storytelling, special events and new attractions into Disney’s parks and media outlets. Here’s what you can expect and how it may affect your future trips.

A coast‑to‑coast salute

The program began with a splash at the 137th Rose Parade in Pasadena, where Disney unveiled a patriotic float featuring Mickey and Minnie riding a Main Street U.S.A. horseless carriage decked out in red, white and blue. More than 50 U.S. military veterans who now work as Disney cast members marched alongside the carriage, underscoring the company’s longstanding “Heroes Work Here” commitment to hiring veterans. The float’s floral design used poppies and irises symbolizing remembrance and honor, while an on‑board brass band played American favorites.

Disney plans to continue the patriotic theme through live experiences, television specials and park offerings. CEO Bob Iger described the anniversary as celebrating the imagination, ambition and possibility that shaped both the nation and the Disney brand. Throughout the year, “Good Morning America” will feature a weekly “50 States in 50 Weeks” segment, National Geographic will release a documentary series called America in Superlatives, and ESPN will launch a special SportsCenter feature titled America’s Team. These media tie‑ins aim to inspire viewers to explore America’s landscapes and stories.

Soarin’ Across America takes flight

The biggest park‑specific news in the announcement is the introduction of Soarin’ Across America, an immersive flight experience coming to both EPCOT and Disney California Adventure. According to Disney, this new version of the beloved Soarin’ attraction will open in summer 2026 and will soar above iconic American landscapes and cityscapes. While Soarin’ has previously taken guests around the world, this iteration promises a red‑white‑and‑blue twist, letting riders glide over national parks, bustling cities and historic landmarks. Expect updated projections, an original score and perhaps a whiff of apple pie in the scent mix.

EPCOT’s version will likely replace the existing Soarin’ Around the World film on at least some screens, while Disney California Adventure may rotate the new film into its lineup. Disney hasn’t announced an exact debut date beyond “summer 2026,” so plan your trips accordingly. If you love flight simulators, this will be a must‑do.

Support for veterans and military families

Beyond floats and rides, the initiative underscores Disney’s commitment to service members. During the Rose Parade announcement, the company donated $2.5 million to Blue Star Families, a nonprofit supporting military families. Disney also highlighted its ongoing veteran hiring program, which has already employed thousands of former service members. Expect special military appreciation events at parks and resorts throughout 2025 and 2026, though details are still forthcoming.

Grand finale on Independence Day

The celebration culminates during the July 4 2026 weekend with a 24‑hour multi‑platform broadcast. Disney describes this as a coast‑to‑coast “event of a lifetime,” featuring a fireworks extravaganza from both Walt Disney World and Disneyland broadcast on ABC, Disney+, Hulu and other Disney networks .David Muir and other ABC News anchors will host, and the lineup promises entertainers, athletes, explorers and historians to tell America’s story. If you’re planning a holiday trip, expect large crowds and limited park reservations, but also one of the most patriotic displays Disney has ever staged.

What it means for guests

For travelers, “Disney Celebrates America” is an opportunity to experience new entertainment and attractions while participating in a once‑in‑a‑generation celebration. If you’re visiting between November 2025 and July 2026, watch for pop‑up shows, special merchandise and patriotic decor. The Soarin’ update alone will likely draw big crowds, so securing Lightning Lane reservations or Early Entry for Soarin’ might be wise.

Because the initiative spans both coasts, consider planning trips to Walt Disney World and Disneyland. You could see the parade float at Disneyland (if it returns for a park parade) and ride Soarin’ Across America in EPCOT, making your own cross‑country celebration. Don’t forget that multi‑day tickets and park reservations will be in high demand around Independence Day, so book early. And if you’re a military family, watch for discounts and special events offered as part of Disney’s celebration.

Behind the Wish sign‑off

We’ll be following the Disney Celebrates America initiative as more details emerge. From patriotic floats to new rides, 2026 is shaping up to be a banner year for Disney fans and history buffs alike. Stay tuned to Behind the Wish for updates on Soarin’ Across America, special events and how to make the most of this star‑spangled celebration.