The company's multi-platform initiative will include primetime specials, live broadcasts, theme park experiences, and support for military families.
The Walt Disney Company is preparing to mark one of the most significant milestones in American history with a nationwide initiative that will extend across television, streaming, theme parks, cruise ships, and community programs.
Disney's America 250 celebration will span television, streaming, theme parks, and live events nationwide.
Called Disney Celebrates America, the effort commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States through a wide range of programming, attractions, live events, and educational experiences designed to highlight the country's history, culture, achievements, and people.
The celebration officially begins June 29 with a two-hour ABC special, Disney Celebrates America: The Pursuit of Happiness. Hosted by ABC News' Deborah Roberts from Walt Disney World Resort and national correspondent Will Reeve from Disneyland Resort, the broadcast will explore American milestones and accomplishments through stories from across the country.
Disney's largest anniversary effort arrives July 3 and July 4 with a 24-hour cross-platform event carried across ABC, Disney+, Hulu, ESPN, National Geographic, FX, Freeform, ABC News Live, ABC-owned stations, and affiliated broadcasters.
ABC News anchor David Muir and veteran journalist Diane Sawyer will lead the coverage alongside a large group of ABC News personalities. The programming will feature stories from all 50 states, highlighting key moments in American history as well as contemporary stories of innovation, resilience, culture, and community.
Planned programming includes Disney Celebrates America: Nashville's Star-Spangled Bash, a live concert event expected to draw large crowds to downtown Nashville. The celebration will feature performances from artists representing multiple genres and conclude with a major fireworks and drone display accompanied by the Nashville Symphony.
Additional segments include special access inside the Statue of Liberty, the conclusion of Good Morning America's "50 States in 50 Weeks" series, historical features focused on the nation's founding, military tributes, and a partnership between ABC News and National Geographic exploring some of the country's most remarkable locations.
One of the initiative's signature projects is the unveiling of the "Seven Natural Wonders of America," developed through a collaboration between National Geographic and ABC News. Hawaii's volcanoes were the first destination announced, with the remaining locations scheduled to be revealed during the July 4 broadcast.
National Geographic will expand the effort throughout the summer with additional coverage across its print, digital, and social media platforms beginning June 16.
Sports will also play a role in the anniversary programming. ESPN plans a special edition of SportsCenter examining athletes, moments, and stories that helped shape American sports culture. ESPN.com will support the initiative with a multi-part series exploring how sports have influenced communities across the country.
Disney Parks will serve as major hubs for the celebration. At both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, guests will find patriotic entertainment, themed décor, specialty food offerings, character appearances, and limited-time experiences tied to the anniversary.
A centerpiece attraction is Soarin' Across America, which is currently available at EPCOT and arrives at Disney California Adventure Park on July 2. The attraction takes guests above some of the nation's most recognizable landmarks, including the New England coastline, Mount Rushmore, Washington, D.C., New York City, and the Grand Canyon.
National Geographic has also enhanced portions of the attraction experience with photography exhibits and interactive educational elements focused on geography, history, and natural wonders.
Beyond entertainment, Disney is continuing its support of military families through its partnership with Blue Star Families. The company previously announced a $2.5 million commitment to the organization, helping fund programs, experiences, and community events for military families nationwide.
Recent efforts included the 25th Disney and Blue Star Books event at the Library of Congress, where more than 500 military children and family members received donated Disney and National Geographic books while participating in activities and character experiences.
Disney says additional announcements and experiences will be revealed in the months ahead as preparations continue for America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
