Disney recently celebrated the 250th anniversary of America by participating in the 2026 Tournament of Roses. The procession included Mickey & Minnie, as well as over 50 veterans who now serve as Disney Cast Members.
Disney Celebrates America
Mickey & Minnie lead the procession in a Disneyland vehicle, which was decorated with red, white, and blue flowers. More than 50 veterans who now serve as Cast Members and their families joined them.
Each of the vibrant flowers on the car holds significance for military veterans. They include the red poppies widely recognized as a symbol of remembrance for fallen military personnel, dating back to World War I. Other flowers featured in Disney’s entry include rosemaries, blue irises, white lilies, chrysanthemums, and red roses to express love, honor, and appreciation for veterans everywhere.
Cast Members also held a banner reading “Disney Celebrates America,” matching the sign nestled between the flowers on the Disneyland car.
Prior to the parade, Bob Iger issued a statement about the partnership between The Walt Disney Company and Tournament of Roses Parade:
“The Walt Disney Company is proud to participate in the 2026 Tournament of Roses Parade as part of our ‘Disney Celebrates America’ initiative honoring our nation’s 250th anniversary,” said CEO Bob Iger. “Both Disney and the Tournament of Roses Parade have long celebrated the spirit of America and the people who make it extraordinary — including our service members, veterans, and their families. By featuring our own veteran cast members, we’re excited to kick off the year at this iconic event and share the Disney magic that connects generations.”
See the full post on Instagram:
Both Disney World and Disneyland have several offerings planned for 2026. Learn more about Disney’s extensive celebration of America’s 250th anniversary here. Soarin’ Across America has an opening date for EPCOT and California Adventure. Watch this behind-the-scenes look for the making of the attraction.
Did you catch the parade on January 1? Let us know in the comments and on social media.
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