Top 5 Disney+ Shows and Movies to Enjoy on the 4th of July

Happy Independence Day! There are many ways to celebrate Independence Day. Since being declared a federal holiday in 1941, the Fourth of July officially commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the 13 colonies that became the United States of America. Since the country’s founding, celebrations of the American birth have taken place on the Fourth of July (though John Adams argued that the celebration should take place on July 2nd). Traditionally, this included parades, barbecues and other meals, time with family and friends, and fireworks. In recent years, technology has made it possible for people across the country and around the world to celebrate from the comfort of their own homes. For some people, that means something broadcast on television that celebrates another year for the United States of America.

In recent years, this has become possible thanks to Disney’s streaming service, Disney+. Here are some patriotic programs you can enjoy on Disney+ this Fourth of July. Below are the top five currently available on the streaming service, followed by a few honorable mentions. Feel free to add your own suggestions in the comments below to help out anyone looking for something to watch this Independence Day.

5. Liberty Story

First published in 1957, Liberty Story tells the story of Johnny Tremain and Amos The Mouse, who fight for freedom. The film contains both live action and animation. It’s interesting because it’s hosted by Walt Disney himself. It also showcases Liberty Street, an expansion of Disneyland that ultimately didn’t come to fruition in the original Magic Kingdom, but did come to fruition at Walt Disney World. The show originally aired on Disney’s Magical World on May 29, 1957.

4. Captain America: The First Avenger

Captain America: The First Avenger is a great movie to watch for Independence Day. What could be more patriotic than Marvel’s Star-Spangled Man origin story? Dressed in red, white, and blue, Captain America fights for what is right and embodies the power for justice, not the power of justice. Not only is this movie one of the best movies in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it’s also a great patriotic movie that reminds people what it means to be an American.

3. Pollyanna

Pollyanna starring Hayley Mills was released in 1960. It was the first of Mills’ six Disney films. It tells the story of a 12-year-old orphan who comes to a small town to live with her aunt. Her arrival changes the town from a harsh one that tended to see the bad in people to one that sees the good in others. There’s even a lovely Independence Day scene in the film. The whole movie is an idealized portrayal of small-town America of the past. It’s full of charm and optimism, and it’s a reminder of what we can do when we come together as a community.

2. National Treasure

In National Treasure, Ben Gates steals the Declaration of Independence to protect it from a real thief. The reason is that there is a treasure map hidden on the back of the Declaration that leads to a huge Freemason treasure. Not only is this movie incredibly patriotic, but it was also filmed in Independence Hall at Knott’s Berry Farm.

1. Hamilton

The hit Broadway musical Hamilton, featured on Disney+, is also a great movie to watch for Independence Day. It’s the origin story of America told through the eyes of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton. Creator Lin-Manuel Miranda describes the musical as “America then, as told by America now.” This unique musical draws inspiration from many influences, including hip hop, R&B, soul, and traditional show tunes. It’s both entertaining and educational; it truly meets Disney’s definition of edutainment.

Honorable Mentions

Disney+ has a few other shows worth watching on Independence Day. Of course, there are other movies that continue the Captain America story, and there’s also the sequel to National Treasure. In addition, the following should also receive honorable mentions: