By India McCarty
Disney is celebrating America’s 250th birthday with a very special 24-hour 4th of July broadcast.
“At its heart, America’s story is one of imagination, ambition, and possibility — the same ideals that have guided Disney since the beginning,” Disney CEO Bob Iger said. “This celebration honors both a nation and a spirit that never stops dreaming about what’s next.”
The 24-hour telecast, titled “Disney Celebrates America,” will air across Disney+, Hulu, ABC, ESPN, Freeform, FX, and National Geographic, ending with a broadcast of a fireworks show from both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort.
The 2026 4th of July special is part of a months-long celebration of America from Disney, kicking off on this year’s Veterans Day.
“As a pillar of American storytelling, innovation, and imagination, the company will bring the semiquincentennial to life in uniquely Disney ways, leaning into the dreams, stories, and optimism that have touched the lives of people across the country and around the world for the past century,” a press release from Disney read.
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The release continued, “Disney will spotlight and celebrate the nation’s many vibrant communities and expansive landscapes, encouraging audiences and guests to discover the people and places that have shaped America for the last 250 years.”
Part of the celebration includes a revamp of the beloved ride “Soarin’,” which takes riders on an airborne journey across the world. However, in 2026, the ride will be retitled “Soarin’ Across America,” showing off the beauty of the United States.
“The new bi-coastal offering will showcase the United States — from sea to shining sea — highlighting some of the country’s natural beauty and iconic cityscapes,” a press release about the changes to the ride explained. “This will be brought to life with the iconic elements that make Soarin’ unforgettable – the flight, the sights and score, even the scents! Walt Disney Imagineering is hard at work capturing more than a dozen breathtaking locations for the new flight.”
Disney will also continue its partnership with veterans group Blue Star Families, donating $2.5 million to support the families of servicemen and women.
“As part of this, Disney and Blue Star Families will continue to create unique events and experiences, including a special celebration marking our 25th ‘Blue Star Books’ event, which brings military families together through the joy of reading and play,” the press release explained.
Disney fans can’t wait to see these patriotic plans brought to life over the next few months!
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