On Friday, September 11, 2026, people across the country and around the world paused to remember the tragic events in New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. The horrific events of that day changed the course of history. 25 years later, the impacts of that day are still felt. From how people enter airports to how they visit theme parks, the effects of this day can be seen on a regular basis.
During the Patriotic Flag Retreat on Friday, a moment was taken to pause and remember the events of this day, remember those who were lost, and thank those who serve. In many regards, this Patriotic Flag Retreat was like the ceremony that takes place in Town Square on a daily basis. However, there was an added seriousness felt in Town Square as guests began to congregate for this moment. As one looked around, there were people wearing FDNY shirts that commemorated the 25th anniversary of this day. Other people could be seen representing the branches of military service that they had served in (more than normal). Throughout Town Square, people could be heard sharing stories. Some of these stories were about 9/11, others were about service, and still others were about remembering those who had given the ultimate sacrifice.
Disneyland is known as The Happiest Place on Earth. For a few brief moments, this corner of Disneyland was one of the most solemn places on Earth. As the Patriotic Flag Retreat began, the people watched as the Dapper Dans, Disneyland Band, and Disneyland Security Honor Detail marched down Main Street, USA, and into Town Square. Behind me, a sniffle could be heard. The ceremony itself was very similar to what is presented on a daily basis in this special place. A few moments were modified to commemorate the anniversary. The most poignant of these was a moment of silence for reflection and remembrance. This moment was shockingly silent for being in the middle of an operating theme park with thousands of people nearby. Following this moment, the flag was lowered until the rising of the new day. More tears could be seen and heard around Town Square as this happened.
After the ceremony ended, the day continued. Families could be seen meeting with their favorite Disney characters. People took photos in front of the giant Mickey Jack-O-Lantern, and Walt Disney’s vision of Disneyland as a “source of joy and inspiration for all the world” was on full display.
The daily tradition of the Patriotic Flag Retreat at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resort comes from a dedication to military service that dates back over 100 years, before The Walt Disney Company was founded. Both founders, Walt Disney and his brother Roy, served during World War I. Over a century later, Disney continues to remain committed to those who serve. On September 11th, the weight of that service was felt even more. It could be seen on the faces of those who had lost loved ones, who had sacrificed themselves, and who had served for a country they love.
September 11th is a day that will never be forgotten by those who lived through it and were aware of the horror happening in front of their eyes. On this day, 25 years later, a moment was taken at the Disneyland Resort to stop and remember the events of that horrible day and the people who were lost. Around the country and the world, ceremonies were held, hymns were sung, and speeches were given to commemorate this day. At Disneyland, a powerful moment of silence was observed.
