In this week's episode, Shannon, Peter, and Sue discuss Disney's United States of America's 250th anniversary celebration next year, including updating Soarin' to Soarin' Across America, extended fireworks displays, and great discounts for military members and their families. EPCOT also revealed dates and entertainment for the 2026 Festival of the Arts. Among other news, Disney Vacation Club Members have opportunities to watch A Christmas Fantasy Parade at Disneyland from a special reserved section in the Small World Promenade, Remy's Ratatouille Adventure is converting from 3D to enhanced 2D visuals, and more! N172 My DVC Points is proudly sponsored by: DVC Resale Market - Industry Leader in DVC Resales DVC Rental Store - DVC Point Rentals Monera Financial - Exclusively Financing DVC Contracts Patreon supporters in the My DVC Points VIP Producer Club. Disney celebrates America's 250th with new version of Soarin’ Last month, Disney announced that the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States will kick-off on Veterans day, November 11th, and continue through July 4th, 2026. The biggest piece of news is that Soarin’ will be updated to “Soarin’ across America” in summer 2026. In addition, both coasts will have extended fireworks presentations for from July 3rd through July 5th. In addition, there will be a 24-hour long media event across Disney platforms on July 4th, as well as merchandise surrounding the holiday. To celebrate veterans, on November 11th Disney announced steep discounts for veterans, including a Walt Disney World ticket valid for 2026 for all active and retired military members for only $499+ tax. In addition Disney is also offering a 6-day Park Hopper pass for $449+ tax, as well as 5-day and 4-day ticket deals for military members. These offers are valid January 1 through December 18, 2026, with an advanced theme park reservation and subject to blockout dates from March 29 – April 11, 2026 and November 22 – 28, 2026. Discounts are also offered on Disneyland tickets for active and retired military, with discounted 3-Day and 4-Day Park Hopper tickets valid for visits January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026, and a 1-Day, 1-Park Disneyland Resort Military Adult Ticket. Disney Cruise Line is offering special military rates on select cruises, and eligible active and retired US military personnel can earn a $250 onboard credit per stateroom for all 2026 sailings from Florida aboard the Disney Wish and Disney Dream. Source: Disney Parks Blog - 250th Celebration Details, Disney Parks Blog - Military Ticket Offers EPCOT Festival of the Arts official dates announced The 2026 Festival of the Arts at EPCOT is slightly extended from past years, running a full 39 days from January 16 to February 23rd,2026. The event will continue to showcase Broadway entertainers now expanded to seven nights per week. There will also be food booths, artists sales, and the return of a special display of costumes and memorabilia from Disney’s Broadway at Communicore. The displays are promised to be significantly different from last year.
