Historic Disney World Ride Undergoes Surprise Update After 52 Years

As summer approaches, Walt Disney World Resort is bringing a fresh wave of patriotic spirit to the Magic Kingdom, just in time for Memorial Day and the Fourth of July. On Wednesday, Disney Park guests noticed a stunning transformation as red, white, and blue decorations appeared seemingly overnight, dressing up the Liberty Square Riverboat and Main Street, U.S.A., with vibrant Americana flair.

Walt Disney himself was deeply patriotic, and Main Street, U.S.A., was his loving tribute to the nostalgia of small-town America. That sense of pride remains alive at Walt Disney World Resort today, with places like Magic Kingdom Park’s Liberty Square—including the Hall of Presidents—and the American Adventure Pavilion at EPCOT. Every evening, the Magic Kingdom honors the United States with its Flag Retreat ceremony in Town Square, where a veteran helps retire the American flag for the night.

The Fourth of July is a particularly special occasion at Walt Disney World Resort. Along with New Year’s Eve, it’s one of only two days when the Magic Kingdom Park puts on its breathtaking 360-degree fireworks display. The show lights up the entire sky above Cinderella Castle and draws enormous crowds. The theme park often hits capacity, and guests line up hours ahead to secure the perfect fireworks viewing spot.

With just over a month left before Independence Day, Main Street, U.S.A., is already decked out for the holiday. According to WDWNT, red, white, and blue bunting now adorns windows, balconies, railings, and rooftops across iconic locations like the firehouse, City Hall, Town Square Theater, Main Street Train Station, and the car barn. The decorations continue down the street, gracing The Emporium, Main Street Confectionery, the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor, and Casey’s Corner.

Patriotic adornments have also made their way onto the Liberty Square Riverboat (Liberty Belle) in Liberty Square. This beloved 52-year-old attraction will likely celebrate one of its last Fourth of July holidays this year. Walt Disney World Resort has confirmed that it will soon close along with much of Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island to make way for two new Cars (2006) themed attractions in Frontierland. An exact closing date has not been announced.

Do you agree with Walt Disney World Resort’s decision to replace the Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and Liberty Square Riverboat with two Cars rides? Share your opinion with Disney Tips in the comments!