Disney and Blue Star Families hosted a Toy Story 5 screening at Camp Pendleton for military families, then surprised every family in attendance with Disneyland Resort tickets.
For the military families in the room, the private base screening turned into a Disney park visit for nearly 500 children and family members.
The surprise
Close to 500 military children and family members attended the screening of Disney and Pixar’s Toy Story 5 at Camp Pendleton in California. Josh D’Amaro, Chief Executive of The Walt Disney Company, appeared at the event and surprised every family there with tickets to Disneyland Resort.
The event also included appearances by Woody and Buzz Lightyear, a special greeting from talent connected to the film, Toy Story 5 giveaways, and other family activities.
The partnership
The Camp Pendleton screening was organized by Blue Star Families and The Walt Disney Company as part of Disney’s broader Disney Celebrates America initiative for the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Disney said the event builds on a 15-year partnership with Blue Star Families. The company has also committed $2.5 million to Blue Star Families to support military family well-being and help create more opportunities for military families to connect.
What families received
The Disneyland Resort tickets were given to families who attended the Camp Pendleton event. Disney framed the tickets as a surprise for those families in recognition of their service.
Blue Star Families CEO and co-founder Kathy Roth-Douquet said military families often serve without recognition, and events like this help create connection and community. D’Amaro said Disney is proud to continue honoring U.S. military service members, veterans, and their families alongside Blue Star Families.
America 250 connection
The screening is one of several Disney and Blue Star Families activations planned or held in 2026. The official release lists events tied to Blue Star Books, MacDill Air Force Base, American Idol, Lucasfilm, Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, and other military family programs across the country.
Toy Story 5 is rated PG and is now playing in theaters. The film brings Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, and the rest of the toys into a story about a new tablet device named Lilypad.
For Disney fans, the practical takeaway is simple: this was a targeted military family recognition event. Anyone looking for regular Disneyland tickets should still use Disney’s normal ticket channels.
Related Articles
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- Disney Details America 250 Celebration for Fourth of July Weekend
- Toy Story 5 Hits Theaters June 19, 2026: What to Know
- Disneyland Honors 100-Year-Old Iwo Jima Veteran Charles Cram at Flag Retreat
Source: Disney Experiences and Blue Star Families press materials dated July 1, 2026
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