Happy 4th of July! There are many different ways to celebrate Independence Day. Since this was declared as a Federal holiday in 1941, the 4th of July has officially been a celebration of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the 13 colonies that would become the United States of America. Since the origins of this nation, celebrations of the birth of American independence have taken place on the 4th of July (although John Adams argued celebrations should take place on the 2nd of July). Traditionally they have included parades, barbecues and other meals, time with family and friends, and fireworks. In recent years, technology has also enabled people to celebrate around the country and globe from the comfort of their homes. For some people, this means throwing something on television that celebrates another year of the United States of America.
In recent years, this has been possible thanks to Disney’s streaming service, Disney+. There are multiple patriotic programs that can be enjoyed on the 4th of July on Disney+. Below is a look at the top 5 that currently can be found on the streaming service. This is followed by several honorable mentions! Feel free to add your own suggestions in the comments below to help those who might be looking for something to watch on this Independence Day.
5. The Liberty Story
The Liberty Story, originally released in 1957, follows the stories of Johnny Tremain and Amos The Mouse in their race for freedom. It has both live-action and animated segments in it. This one is fun as it is hosted by Walt Disney himself. It also introduces Liberty Street, a Disneyland expansion that ended up never ended up coming to fruition at the original Magic Kingdom but instead at Walt Disney World. This program was originally on The Magical World of Disney on May 29, 1957.
4. Captain America: The First Avenger
Captain America: The First Avenger is a great movie to watch on the 4th of July. What is more patriotic than the Marvel’s star spangled man’s origin story? Decked out in red, white, and blue, Captain America fights for what is right and also epitomizes might for right not and not right is might. Not only is it one of the best films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it’s a great patriotic film as well that reminds people what it is to be an American.
3. Pollyanna
Pollyanna, starring Hayley Mills, was released in 1960. It was Mills first of six films for Disney. It tells the story of a 12-year-old orphan who arrives in a small town to live with her aunt. Her arrival changes the town from a one that was bitter and tended to look at the worst in people to one that saw the good in others. It also has a charming 4th of July portion of the film. The whole movie is an idealized glimpse at small town America of the past. It is full of charm and optimism and is a good reminder of what we can be when we come together as a community.
Doug also wrote recently about where the opening of Pollyanna was filmed. You can read his piece here.
2. National Treasure
In National Treasure, Ben Gates steals the Declaration of Independence in order to protect it from real thieves steal it. This is because of a hidden treasure map that is on the back of the Declaration of Independence that leads to a massive Freemason treasure. Along with being an incredibly patriotic film, the Independence Hall at Knott’s Berry Farm was used in this movie!
1. Hamilton
Hamilton, the hit Broadway musical that was recorded for Disney+ is also a fantastic film to watch on the 4th of July. This is the story of the origins of America as seen through the life of founding father Alexander Hamilton. Creator Lin-Manuel Miranda describes the musical as “America then, as told by America now.” This unique musical draws from multiple inspirations including hip hop, R&B, soul, and also traditional-style show tunes. This is an entertaining program that also is educational. It really nails the Disney definition of edutainment.
Honorable Mentions
There are several other programs on Disney+ that are worth watching on the 4th of July. Obviously there are other movies that continue the story of Captain America that can be included and also a sequel to National Treasure. On top of that, the following should also be given honorable mentions:
- America’s National Parks
- America the Beautiful
- America’s Heart and Soul
- Night at the Museum
- Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian
- Miracle
- Diary Of A Future President
These are a few favorite patriotic programs that can be enjoyed on Disney+ on the 4th of July (or really any time). What are your favorites for the 4th of July that are on Disney+? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
