Patriotic Flag Retreat Returns to Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts

A time-honored tradition has returned to both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts. The patriotic flag retreat ceremonies have returned daily to Magic Kingdom and also Disneyland. This beautiful ceremony happens daily at the flag pole in Town Square on both parks’ Main Street, USA. During the retiring of the colors, Disney honors and offers its sincere thanks to those who serve and defend the United States of America.

The Disneyland Resort saw this beautiful ceremony return as the parks reopened on April 30, 2021. Disney shared what Navy veteran Nick Filippone, senior production manager for the main entrance at Disneyland, had to say about the ceremony.

“I was so proud to see our Disneyland security and entertainment teams once again present our beloved flag retreat ceremony in Town Square from the very first day we were able to welcome Guests back,” said Filippone. “We have been honored to continue Walt’s patriotic legacy with keeping the American flag flying throughout the park’s closure showing that no matter what else was happening, we could maintain this element of our heritage.”

In Florida, the Magic Kingdom saw this ceremony return on July 1, 2021. For this park’s tradition, an active-duty military member is selected to join members of the Magic Kingdom’s security team as they lower the flag and then carry it in a processional down Main Street, USA. This beautiful ceremony includes the Pledge of Allegiance, and singing of God Bless America, and also the Star-Spangled Banner. The ceremony is accompanied by the Main Street Philharmonic marching band.

“It has been an honor for our security cast to keep our flag flying every day over Magic Kingdom since the park first opened in 1971,” said Army veteran Eileen Underwood, Magic Kingdom’s senior security manager. “We were thrilled to resume our daily flag retreat ceremonies to honor our country and those who serve around the world in defense of our freedoms. It’s a special moment for all our guests that really reaffirms the feeling that this is truly a magical place.”

The patriotic flag retreat takes place in both parks daily. It is suggested that guests who want to experience the ceremony to check with Guest Services or the Times Guide to know when it will be happening.

Have you seen the patriotic flag retreat at Disneyland or Magic Kingdom? Below is a video of the ceremony at Disneyland with the Disneyland Resort All-American College Band from a couple of years ago. Share your thoughts and opinions about the ceremony in the comments below!

YouTube player

Comments

2 responses to “Patriotic Flag Retreat Returns to Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts”

  1. Tom Seaton Avatar
    Tom Seaton

    It’s a wonderful ceremony and I always enjoy watching it. I hope to again with friends who are veterans when we’re at the park on July 20.

  2. nick boyer Avatar
    nick boyer

    I don’t believe that “Yankee Doodle Dandy” is appropriate song for the South. I personally love and the other songs well played and sung wonderfully.

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