Annual Passholders will get a preview of Soarin’ Across America, as Walt Disney World prepares for the United States’ 250th anniversary. The EPCOT attraction will be getting a temporary overlay featuring scenes across the United States.
The patriotic overlay will open to all guests May 26. Before the public opening, Disney will offer a Soarin’ Across America Annual Passholder preview on May 19 and 20. During these preview dates, eligible Annual Passholders can experience the attraction by joining the standard attraction queue.
The new overlay will replace “Soarin’ Around the World” for a limited time, with the standard ride closing May 14. The updated film will highlight locations across the United States, including natural landscapes and major cities.
The poster for Soarin Across America – Disney Parks Blog
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Soarin’ is not the only attraction passholders can preview as Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets will also be available to passholders on May 21, 22, and 23, ahead of its May 26 opening.
Disney’s Broader Plans for the 250th Anniversary
“Soarin’ Across America” is part of a wider celebration tied to the country’s 250th anniversary. Disney has introduced the initiative across its U.S. parks and resorts. The effort includes themed entertainment and seasonal offerings.
At Magic Kingdom, the nighttime show “Disney’s Celebrate America! — A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” will return for the holiday period. The fireworks display is expected to run on multiple nights around Independence Day.
In addition, Disney has also confirmed a touring exhibition called Portraits of Courage: A Commander in Chief’s Tribute to America’s Warriors, which will be extended at EPCOT’s American Adventure Pavilion through the 250th anniversary weekend.
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“At its heart, America’s story is one of imagination, ambition, and possibility — the same ideals that have guided Disney since the beginning,” former Disney CEO Bob Iger said. “This celebration honors both a nation and a spirit that never stop dreaming about what’s next.”
History of the Soarin’ Attraction
The Soarin’ attraction began at Disney California Adventure in 2001. The original version, titled Soarin’ Over California, focused on landmarks across the state. It featured locations such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Yosemite National Park. The attraction quickly became one of the park’s most popular experiences.
Disney later expanded the concept to EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort in 2005. This version used the same ride system and film. It introduced the experience to a wider audience on the East Coast.
In 2016, Disney updated the attraction at both locations. The new version, Soarin’ Around the World, replaced the California-focused film. It featured global landmarks, including the Great Wall of China and the Eiffel Tower. The update also introduced a new musical score and improved projection technology.
Over time, Disney has brought back Soarin’ Over California for limited engagements. These seasonal returns have taken place at both parks during special events. The upcoming Soarin’ Across America continues this pattern of updating the film while keeping the core ride system the same.
Overview
The Soarin’ Across America Annual Passholder preview will provide early access before the official opening date of May 26th.
Passholders can experience the limited time overlay to the attraction May 19 and 20, with standard park admission to EPCOT.
What do you think of the patriotic overlay for Soarin’? Are you excited for Disney’s celebrations for the country’s 250th anniversary? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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