In honor of tomorrow being the 4th of July, I wanted to tell you about the daily Flag Retreat ceremony that takes place each day at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.

Every afternoon at 5pm in the Magic Kingdom Town Square, a full honor guard lowers the American flag with a simple, but moving ceremony.  It’s an experience done in true Disney-style – with grace, respect and pride.

In addition to the honor guard, a special guest is chosen each day to participate.  This guest is a veteran visiting the park, and I’ll admit I’m not sure how this person is chosen, but here’s some info from MilitaryDisneyTips.com.

Here are some more pictures I took from the flag retreat ceremony back in May. I’m not even ashamed to tell you that I cried during the ceremony.  It’s so moving to see everyone on Main Street stand still in silence as the flag is lowered.  What a fantastic way to celebrate our country and also honor veterans.

On your next trip to Walt Disney World, I’d highly recommend you experience this ceremony.  It’s definitely a highlight in my Disney experience and one I will now rearrange my schedule around to see each time I’m at the park.  Truly magical.

Have you seen the Flag Retreat Ceremony at the Magic Kingdom? Or know someone who has participated?  Tell us about it…