Disney is going all-in on America’s 250th anniversary. The company launched a new initiative called “Disney Celebrates America,” which kicked off on Veterans Day 2025 and runs through the July 4, 2026 weekend, honoring the nation’s semiquincentennial.
CEO Bob Iger summed it up this way: “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.”
Portraits of Courage Extended Through July 4, 2026
One of the centerpieces of the initiative is the Portraits of Courage: A Commander in Chief’s Tribute to America’s Warriors exhibit at EPCOT’s American Adventure Pavilion. Originally set to close earlier, the exhibit – featuring portraits of U.S. military veterans painted by former President George W. Bush – has been extended through the July 4, 2026 weekend.
The extension was announced on February 18, 2026. It’s a fitting move given the significance of the year and the exhibit’s connection to service members and their families.
One of the veterans featured in the exhibit, Dave Smith, visited EPCOT with his family on Presidents’ Day to see his portrait for the first time. Smith served as a U.S. Marine Corps Corporal from 2003 to 2007, including combat tours in Iraq with 1st Battalion, 4th Marines. He shared that adjusting to civilian life was challenging and emphasized that veterans should not shy away from seeking mental health support.
Smith said: “To stand there with my family at Disney, looking at a portrait of me painted by a President of the United States, is incredibly humbling. I’m deeply honored – but more than anything, I’m grateful: grateful to have served, grateful to have healed, and grateful to share this moment with my family, knowing the best chapters of our lives are still being written.”
If you’re heading to EPCOT this year, this exhibit is absolutely worth your time. I covered Presidents’ Day festivities at EPCOT recently – the Voices of Liberty had special echo sets running at the American Adventure Pavilion as well.
Disney Marched in the 137th Rose Parade
Disney was part of the 137th Rose Parade on January 2, 2026, with a “Disney Celebrates America” float. More than 50 U.S. military veterans who work as Disney cast members marched alongside the float. The company also announced a $2.5 million donation to Blue Star Families as part of the celebration.
Soarin’ Across America at Both Resorts
The “Soarin’ Across America” experience is part of the celebration at both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World. This version of the fan-favorite Soarin’ attraction puts a patriotic lens on the iconic flying theater experience.
For everything else happening at Walt Disney World this year, check out our complete guide to what’s new at Walt Disney World in 2026. And if you’re planning a trip around any of these events, see what to expect at Disney World for key holiday weekends.
A Year-Long Celebration Through July 4, 2026
The full “Disney Celebrates America” initiative runs from Veterans Day 2025 through the July 4, 2026 weekend – covering some of the most significant patriotic moments on the calendar. The company is framing it as a celebration of America’s past, present, and future, with a focus on storytelling, veterans, and community.
You can read the full announcement on the Disney Parks Blog.
