As Independence Day weekend comes to a close, we’re looking back at one of the most memorable and heartwarming events at the Magic Kingdom. On July 4, 2007, Walt Disney World Resort welcomed 1,000 immigrants as they took the Oath of Allegiance and became American citizens in the shadow of Cinderella Castle on Main Street, U.S.A.
It’s hard to imagine in 2025, when immigration is such a divisive and hate-fueled topic in the United States. But 18 years ago, a thousand people from more than 100 countries came together, setting aside their differences and focusing on the one thing they had in common: the American Dream.
TikTok user @mousevault recently shared this video recapping the unforgettable event:
@mousevault What a cool moment in Disney history. #mousevault #parkvault #disneyhistory #disney #history #todayilearned #waltdisney #waltdisneyworld #magickingdom #cinderellacastle #naturalizationceremony #fourthofjuly #4thofjuly #independenceday #historytok #disneytok
“On July 4, Cinderella Castle became the backdrop for something rare and unforgettable,” the TikToker began. “Instead of fireworks and fanfare, the morning began with 1,000 immigrants from more than 100 countries standing together in front of the castle – not for a show, but to take the oath of U.S. citizenship.”
Gloria Estefan sang the National Anthem, and a military Honor Guard raised the American flag. The event featured speeches from U.S. Senator Mel Martinez, then-Walt Disney World Resort President Meg Crofton, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) District Director Kathy Redman, USCIS Acting Deputy Director Michael Aytes, and actor Andy Garcia.
“America is a country more diverse than any other, built on the backs of millions of people who sought liberty and a better life for themselves and their families,” Garcia said. “A country not defined by race, religion, or ethnicity, but by shared civic ideals and values.”
“While it wasn’t your typical Independence Day celebration, it may have been one of the most meaningful ever held inside the Magic Kingdom,” the TikToker continued. “Rain started just as the oath ended. Disney staff handed out ponchos, and the crowd stayed put. The event rolled on through speeches, music, and even a flyover by two F-15 jets that soared right down Main Street, U.S.A.”
After taking the oath, the new U.S. citizens joined a parade down Main Street, U.S.A., waving American flags as they marched toward Town Square behind Mickey Mouse and a marching band.
“For a moment, the symbolism was easy to see,” the TikToker concluded. “Main Street has always been a vision of America, and now it had 1,000 new citizens walking right down the middle of it.”
Walt Disney World Resort hasn’t brought back this event, but Magic Kingdom Park still celebrates July 4 with a 360-degree fireworks show, special entertainment, and themed food and drinks throughout the park.
What’s your favorite piece of Disney history trivia? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments!
The post On July 4, 1000 Immigrants Marched Down Disney World’s Main Street, U.S.A. appeared first on Inside the Magic.
