Fireworks, hot dog eating contests, my youngest son’s birthday: All reasons why the 4th of July is one of my favorite holidays of the year. And no doubt, it’s a popular holiday within the Disney family. Biographies on Mr. Walt Disney portray him as a true red-blooded American who shared his patriotism within his parks. Thus making Disney Theme Parks the ideal locations for a 4th of July trip.
Welcome to Believe Vacations Top 10 where today, we’ll look at the Top 10 Patriotic Disney Experiences. For this list, we’re looking at attractions, lands, restaurants and moments within Disney Parks that will make you proud to wave Old Glory. Now, put on your best red, white and blue and join in the fun as we start with:
Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World
10) Voices of Liberty (Epcot – The American Adventure) – As a music fan, I can listen to this group sing all day. A wonderfully group of talented ladies and gentlemen will provide you with American classics a Capella style in the lobby of the American Adventure attraction. From their vintage colonial garb to the effortless harmonies of their vocals, this is one 10-minute show that’ll light a patriotic fire in your heart.
Photo courtesy of WDWMagic.com
9) Spirit of America Fife and Drum Corps (Epcot – The American Adventure) – Snare drums, fifes, Revolutionary War attire and patriotic music. What a combination! Performing a couple of times a day outside the American Adventure attraction in Epcot, watch as a group of young men celebrate our armed forces with choreographed routines and themes. It’ll take you back to the doorstep of the first Independence Day in 1776!
8) Liberty Square/Frontierland (Magic Kingdom) – Two of the most popular lands in the Magic Kingdom, both represent the history of America separated by a hundred years. While the shops, streets and wardrobes of Liberty Square represent Colonial times, Frontierland brings us into the Gold Rush era of the 1800s. While vastly different in looks, attractions and heritage, it is united in the past that has made us the wonderful nation we are today.
Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World
7) Liberty Tree Tavern (Liberty Square – Magic Kingdom) – Of course we were going to mention food at some point, right? Taking place in a colonial inn setting, Liberty Tree Tavern will make you wish it was already Thanksgiving. From its famous Patriot’s Platter of turkey breast, pot roast and mac & cheese, to drinking a Samuel Adams, dine in one of 6 rooms, each named after one of our Founding Fathers.
6) Liberty Bell (Liberty Square – Magic Kingdom) – No need to make a separate trip to Philadelphia. Enjoy seeing one of our most cherished national landmarks near Lake Buena Vista, FL. Cast exactly like the original up North, The Liberty Bell in the Magic Kingdom is a perfect photo opportunity for kids to use to reflect on and research about when they return home.
5) “A Salute to all nations, but mostly America.” (Muppet Vision 3D – Hollywood Studios) – Ah yes, Sam the Eagle’s glorious 3 hour finale that pays tribute to all nations but mostly to the country he so proudly represents. This classic line is a favorite among Disney regulars. One day we’ll see the remaining 2 hours, 58 minutes and 30 seconds of this salute but alas, for now, we’ll just stick with the minute and a half abbreviated version.
Photo courtesy of Disney Parks
4) The Muppets present Great Moments in American History (Liberty Square – Magic Kingdom) – We just keep rolling with the Muppets and, is it just me, or are the Muppets becoming more and more of an American institution every day? Using historical, yet hysterical songs and recounting a few of America’s most famous legends and lore, Kermit, Piggy, Fozzy, Gonzo and the gang put their own twist on some classics. With shows multiple times during the day, you may get a different story each time. Just bring the laughs and the patriotism along with you!
Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World
3) Flag Retreat (Main Street USA Flag Pole – Magic Kingdom) – At Disney, everyone is considered a guest and I’ll be the first to admit that I may not be the most important guest that enters into the parks. That honor is reserved for the brave men and women who have once served or are currently serving to protect our country. It will not surprise you that Disney goes above and beyond to welcome these honored guests and for one distinguished service man or woman, a special honor awaits at the Flag Retreat. As the flag is lowered for the day, the cast members assigned provide the flag to the special guest as a gift for their service. Truly emotional indeed!
Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World
2) American Adventure (Epcot) – For 30 solid minutes, you will get one of the most complete and historical overviews of America. Narrated by Mark Twain and Benjamin Franklin, the duo take us on a journey from colonial times through the Great Depression. With animatronics that pop up on all sides of the stage, the show combines stunning scenery, original songs and plenty of history.
Honorable Mention
Living with the Land – Visit working greenhouses as we celebrate those who have farmed our lands for years.
Carousel of Progress – Journey through a century’s worth of inventions and progression with John, our wonderful narrator.
Fireworks – I mean, is there anything more patriotic?
1) Hall of Presidents (Liberty Square – Magic Kingdom) – With the upcoming refurbishment to be completed later this year, you will be in the same room with animatronics representing the 44 men who have held the title of the President of the United States of America. While robots can only do so much justice, there is something patriotic about witnessing the stunning visual of all of them in one spot. Regardless of political views, which side of the aisle you fall on, and how you vote, we can all agree that these men have used their combined resources to give us a free nation. And if it means celebrating that freedom in a place that all started with a mouse, well then God Bless America!
Did we miss anything? What patriotic moments do you enjoy within the Disney properties. Leave your comments below and remember, there’s a great, big, beautiful tomorrow.
