There’s going to be a patriotic new Disney Parks overlay coming to Soarin’, the giant flight simulation attraction at Walt Disney World and the Disneyland Resort in 2026—and it’s already sparked a wave of memes.
Originally, the ride was a main feature at Disney’s California Adventure as Soarin’ Over California before its second iteration, Soarin’ Around the World, took over. But during the summer of 2026 as part of Disney Celebrates America, Soarin’ Across America will make its debut to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the United States’ founding. You know, when we picked a democracy over a king back in 1776.
And while Disney’s intention is “to honor America’s past, celebrate the present, and inspire its future,” there’s a little matter at hand of the political divide remaining heated during the country’s current administration.
Surely, Disney, as it celebrates all cultures, will potentially include people from all walks of life that make up the fabric of its audiences. Obviously we’d like to see the farms tended by those who make sure there’s food on our tables, the lives of Native Americans who were here before the European immigrants, rich cultural celebrations like Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Pride parades with rainbow crosswalks, and peaceful protests protected by the First Amendment. In other words, all the people who make up the best of what a united America can be today.
Fans of the parks, who have been less enthused by movements the company has made of late in regard to standing up for representation of marginalized communities, have their own thoughts about what might more accurately reflect America. Here are the best memes that pointedly call out what might really depict the state of a nation currently having quite an identity crisis. (But also enjoy some lighthearted, 100 percent ‘Murican funnies too!)
From folks hoping to see this Lady Liberty from the defunct Muppet*Vision 3-D fountain…
How I think Soarin' Across America should look. I've also included a transparent png so you can create your own. Look for it in the first comment. pic.twitter.com/dAn29bEyJF
— Diservations (@diservations) October 20, 2025
To the maximum effort of this Home Depot core memory many of us have of going with our families for weekend housework supplies…
"Soarin' across America" pic.twitter.com/klfwiX05aB
— Imemegination For Good (@imemegination) October 20, 2025
To the alarming…
Soarin’ Across America lets goooo!!! 🇺🇸 https://t.co/Un9ReHsfRJ pic.twitter.com/pM1ziyepgK
— DERICK+ (@esplanerd) October 20, 2025
Needs more traffic:
Soarin' Over I-4 pic.twitter.com/tyoJJiDkZH
— Phil ✦ The Horizoneer (@TheHorizoneer) September 25, 2023
Okay, this one we’re still proud of, I think—especially since many depend on that $5 rotisserie chicken, $10 whole pizza, and $1.50 hot dog combo to feed families (mine included so I can roast the state of our economy) at Costcos across America.
Soarin’ Across America looks great pic.twitter.com/ad9eQSQfOL
— Van 🎃 (@van_more_) October 20, 2025
Then there’s, of course, how the internet remembers what really happened in America on January 6.
Soarin over America is gonna go crazy pic.twitter.com/syogOrD9iu
— HIM CURRY (@ShawnNOrlando) October 20, 2025
All kidding aside, here’s the real trailer for Soarin’ Across America featuring Patrick Warburton, the original attraction host, making a comeback to his iconic Disney Parks universe role. The overlay will arrive next summer at Epcot in Walt Disney World and Disney California Adventure at the Disneyland Resort.
Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.
English (US) ·