We have been celebrating the birth of America for 239 years and Disney Parks have been doing their best to contribute for the past 59 (Disneyland opened on July 17th). In 1976, to commemorate the Bicentennial, both Walt Disney World and Disneyland (seen here) ran the same parade for the first time, ‘America on Parade.’
For as long as I can remember, one of the special touches at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World was walking through the gate and receiving a American Flag pin, a tradition that continues to this day!
Each day since 1982, Epcot has been celebrating our country with the American Adventure. But July 4th is always a special day at Epcot with small events like a American History scavenger hunt and patriotic characters.
By far one of the biggest highlights of the day (before the fireworks) has to be a special concert from the Voices of Liberty at the American Gardens Stage.
Of course, no Independence Day would be complete without some bombs bursting in air! Which takes us to the Polynesian Village Resort beach, my favorite place to watch any Magic Kingdom fireworks from, but even more so on the 4th of July with a “mirror launch” barge. The additional barge and use of the Electric Water Pageant floats was added years ago to try and help alleviate the sheer number of guests who flood into Magic Kingdom for the big fireworks show by adding extra viewing ability to guests along the Seven Seas Lagoon. Not only is it a spectacular show, it is also very touching as it goes through our history not just shooting shells in the air.
Even Skipper MErica got into the fun at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto with her stamp art!