ABC is taking viewers on a coast-to-coast journey through Disney Parks with a brand-new primetime special celebrating American history, innovation, and culture.
Disney Celebrates America: The Pursuit of Happiness will air Monday, June 29, from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. EDT on ABC, with streaming available the following day on Disney+ and Hulu.
The two-hour special will be hosted by 20/20 co-anchor Deborah Roberts, broadcasting from Walt Disney World Resort, alongside ABC News national correspondent Will Reeve, reporting from Disneyland Resort.
Rather than focusing solely on the Disney Parks themselves, the program uses iconic locations throughout Walt Disney World and Disneyland as the backdrop for stories highlighting American achievements, innovation, and culture.
Disney Parks Become the Backdrop
Throughout the special, viewers will visit familiar locations across both resorts while exploring stories that helped shape America.
Main Street, U.S.A. serves as a symbol of small-town America, while Cars Land celebrates the country’s long-standing love affair with the open road. Toy Story Land becomes the setting for a look back at some of America’s most iconic toys and the memories they created for generations of families.
Stories Featured in the Special
The program will spotlight a wide variety of people and topics, including:
- Hawaiian performer Moana Jones Wong, who shares her perspective on Hawaii’s culture and community.
- National Geographic Explorer-at-Large Dr. Sylvia Earle, discussing her groundbreaking work in ocean conservation.
- Grammy-winning musician Jon Batiste, visiting New Orleans’ legendary J&M Recording Studio, often referred to as the birthplace of rock ‘n’ roll.
- The history of Pan American World Airways and its impact on modern air travel.
- ESPN’s look at baseball, featuring the Savannah Bananas and the legacy of America’s Black baseball players.
- The rise of the American automobile industry and its influence on personal freedom.
- A tribute to Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe at the historic TCL Chinese Theatre.
- A look back at ABC News’ coverage of the Apollo 11 moon landing, while exploring the future of space exploration.
When to Watch
Disney Celebrates America: The Pursuit of Happiness premieres on ABC on Monday, June 29, from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. EDT.
If you miss the original broadcast, the special will stream beginning the next day on Disney+ and Hulu. ABC will also air an encore presentation on Friday, July 3, from 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. EDT.
Whether you’re a Disney fan, a history buff, or simply looking for an inspiring way to kick off Independence Day week, this new special promises a unique look at the people, places, and stories that have helped shape America, all through the familiar settings of Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort.
