A Guide to 4th of July at Walt Disney World

As we head into summer, the 4th of July is at the front of my mind. In the words of Elle Woods - ‘you look like the 4th of July. It makes me want a hot dog real bad’. One of my favorite places to spend the 4th of July is at Walt Disney World, where you can enjoy all the parks have to offer, as well as some special extras, like different fireworks, some great festive food options, and fun dance parties in The Magic Kingdom. Today, in our guide to spending the 4th of July in Walt Disney World, we will cover all the festive fun that you don’t want to miss, so you can have the best vacation ever. Don’t forget - our specialists at Be Our Guest Vacations are available to plan your trip, and they’re EXPERTS at all things Walt Disney World!

Special Fireworks

Historically, there are special fireworks available at both The Magic Kingdom and EPCOT for the 4th of July. At Magic Kingdom, guests will find a special celebratory atmosphere where they can dance the night away with DJs mixing tunes at a dance party in front of Cinderella Castle and throughout the park. Sensational patriotic fireworks display, “The Heartbeat of Freedom,” will follow the new nighttime EPCOT fireworks show Luminous “The Symphony of Us.” This performance at EPCOT will take place July 4 at 9 p.m.

Festive Food

Nothing says ‘let’s celebrate America’, more than our national pastime - trying new food and drinks! Walt Disney World always has an offering of things that are only available for this patriotic week. Last year we saw special cupcakes, frozen beverages, patriotic BBQ platters, and much more, all around Walt Disney World. These were announced a week before the holiday - a great place to check for any special food that might be around for your trip is at the Disney Parks Blog under the ‘eat’ section! One of my favorite 4th of July treats, which is normally available year-round, is at the Fife & Drum in the American Pavillion at EPCOT. It’s called ‘The American Dream’ and it’s made from Frozen Fanta Wild Cherry, Vanilla Ice Cream, and Frozen Fanta Blue Raspberry Slushy. It tastes similar to the rocket pops that you would eat around the pool as a kid - in other words, it’s five stars all around!

Dance Parties

The Magic Kingdom will have dance parties that are fun for the whole family on both the 4th. In years past, we’ve seen dance parties in Tomorrowland, Frontierland, and in front of Cinderella’s Castle. We’ve also seen some characters get into the fun and cut a rug on the dance floor - including The Country Bears! Speaking of everyone's favorite bears - the new Country Bear Jamboree will be open on July 17th!

Misc Extras

EPCOT will have a limited-time patriotic overlay for the nighttime lights on Spaceship Earth. If you haven’t seen the lighting on Spaceship Earth, it’s a must-see and a great example of the ambient extras around the parks that make them such a magical place. Another great addition to EPCOT is Portraits of Courage, which opened on June 9th. This special addition to The American Pavilion includes portraits of veterans painted by former President George W. Bush. In addition, you’ll find characters in their 4th of July outfits in EPCOT in The America Pavilion. The Magic Kingdom usually has a small amount of decor, with special Patriotic touches added to Main Street U.S.A.

The Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios will not do anything special for the 4th of July, except some special treats and food throughout the parks. If you aren’t interested in celebrating the holiday, these parks will have fewer crowds, and might be a good alternative for lower lines! The 4th is a great time to be at Walt Disney World - make sure to also check out our blog about beating the heat at the parks, for more summertime tips and tricks. Reach out to Be Our Guest Vacations today, so we can help plan your summer getaway!