Summer is a time for vacations, and nothing says vacation more than the 4th of July holiday weekend. Especially when the holiday falls on a Monday, like it does this year, giving you a nice, long holiday weekend to get away! There are plenty of popular vacation destinations that make celebrating the 4th extra special, but have you ever considered a Disney park? Aside from the obvious magic and fun there is to be had while visiting a Disney theme park, there are several reasons spending the 4th of July holiday is just better when spent at Disneyland or Walt Disney World!

Spectacle!

Fireworks are synonymous with two things: 4th of July and Disney parks. Imagine putting them together! That’s right, both Disneyland and Walt Disney World will feature the most impressive display of fireworks to be seen on the 4th of July! Disney’s Celebrate America! – A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky can be seen on both coasts. This patriotic nighttime spectacular celebrates the traditions that make our country great, while surrounding guests with the traditional American tunes we all grew up with.

In addition to the fireworks, both parks feature other forms of patriotic entertainment. In the past, the Dapper Dans have appeared on Main Street, USA (on both coasts) in red, white, and blue versions of their barbershop quartet uniform to perform all those patriotic songs we know and love. Be sure to keep an eye out on the Disneyland and My Disney Experience (Walt Disney World) apps for showtimes.

Disneyland will present several opportunities for guests to enjoy the musical talents of the 1st Marine Division Band. The band from the local Camp Pendleton will first appear during a special Fourth of July Flag Retreat Ceremony at 4:30pm. This will be followed by a performance on Main Street, USA at 4:55pm. Your final opportunity to see the 1st Marine Division Band will be at the Fantasyland Theatre at 7:15pm.

Treats!

Now that we’ve covered the entertainment offerings, it’s time to dig in to the seasonal treats! Both the Disneyland and Walt Disney World resorts will feature several American themed eats. There are entirely too many options to list! But there are two treats in particular that have my mouth watering. The Berry Shortcake, which is shortcake topped with blueberries, strawberries, whipped cream and festive red, white and blue sprinkles can be found at the Columbia Harbour House in Magic Kingdom.  Also, the Experiment 0341: Red, White and Blue Slush from Pym’s Test Kitchen in Disney California Adventure looks like the perfect refreshment for a July day at Disneyland!  This treat is a lemon-lime and blue raspberry flavored slush topped with grenadine and cherry flavor-filled boba.

If you’re interested in seeing all of this year’s 4th of July treats, visit this Disney Parks Blog Post for details and photos!

Attractions!

After enjoying your favorite red, white and blue dish, it might be a good time to explore some attractions! Walt Disney was extremely fond of American history and for that reason, there are attractions themed to that aesthetic. While they are available year round, their traditional American nature will be sure to get you in the patriotic spirit!

At Disneyland, you can’t miss Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln. This iconic show, located on Main Street, USA, pays homage to Walt Disney’s favorite president, Abraham Lincoln.  While you’re on Main Street, be sure to catch a ride on one of the Main Street Vehicles!  The Omnibus in particular is a great way to take in the views of Main Street, which Walt envisioned as the perfect representation of small town America in the early 20th century.

The next Disneyland attraction I’ll recommend for a great 4th of July experience is an original opening day attraction.  You’ll find the Mark Twain Riverboat in Frontierland, right across from Big Thunder Mountain.  Taking a leisurely ride through the Rivers of America on this gorgeously appointed steamboat is a wonderful way to relax and take in the sights.  The Mark Twain is covered with patriotic paraphernalia and gives you all those wonderful nostalgic vibes that transport you back in time.

Further down the banks of the Rivers of America in Critter Country, there are the Davey Crockett Explorer Canoes.  I recommend this attraction to everyone! It’s definitely more of a rustic experience than the Mark Twain Riverboat, but because you are actually powering the boat yourself, you feel one with the great American wilderness! The cast members taking you on this exciting journey may have some jokes up their sleeve, as well.

If you’re spending the holiday at Walt Disney World, there are wonderful patriotic attractions you can enjoy! Let’s start in EPCOT. In the World Showcase, you will find areas dedicated to countries and their distinctive cultures.  The United States of America is represented by The American Adventure, a show set in a colonial theater that takes you through historic landmarks throughout our American history. Benjamin Franklin and Mark Twain take you on this journey through time. Located in the same area, you can catch an acapella musical experience from Voices of Liberty on the hour every hour from noon to 5pm. Eight voices harmonizing your favorite patriotic tunes is the perfect way to top off the American experience in EPCOT.

In Disney’s Magic Kingdom, there is an entire land themed around colonial America, called Liberty Square.  Here you can see an exact replica of the Liberty Bell! This area is also home to the Liberty Belle Riverboat, which is very similar to the Mark Twain Riverboat at Disneyland, and the Hall of Presidents. This show takes you through the nation’s founding history and you’ll also be able to see Audio-Animatronic depictions of all 45 presidents that have served the United States. If you happen to find yourself in Hollywood Studios, Sam Eagle from the Muppet Vision 3D show is sure to raise your patriotic spirit, as well!

Well folks, there you have it. From entertainment to treats to attractions, Disney Parks have you covered if you plan to visit over the 4th of July holiday. Be sure to contact us here at ConciEARS if you’d like to plan a vacation to Walt Disney World or Disneyland for next July 4th. Our experience and knowledge of Disney destinations will make your vacation something you will never forget!

Happy Fourth of July!