Walt Disney World Resort has made a significant change at its parks this week, following an order from President Donald Trump after the death of former Vice President Dick Cheney. Several guests at Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park noticed the change on Wednesday, November 5.
On the morning of November 5, Walt Disney World Resort’s American Flags were lowered to half-staff as a tribute to the late Dick Cheney, who passed away on November 3 due to complications from pneumonia and heart disease. Cheney, 84, served as the 46th Vice President of the United States from 2001 to 2009 during both of President George W. Bush’s terms. He was widely recognized for his role in the “war on terror” following the 9/11 attacks and for his influence in the Iraq War.
President Trump’s order, which was issued on Tuesday, November 4, directed that the American flags be flown at half-staff “through internment.” However, at the time of publication, it is unclear when the flags will be raised again.
Although Walt Disney World Resort is private property, the park has long followed the U.S. Flag Code, which outlines the proper procedures for flying American flags during times of national mourning. This is not the first time the Central Florida Disney parks have lowered their flags to honor a politically significant figure. Earlier this year, the resort lowered its flags to honor Republican activist Charlie Kirk, who was killed during a college speech in Utah. Additionally, Disney has previously honored former President Jimmy Carter and Pope Francis in the same manner.
Flags flying at half-staff for Charlie Kirk at Disney World send a powerful message—respect transcends politics. Whatever your views, honoring someone’s life this way shows compassion and humanity. ❤️🙏 #Disney #CharlieKirk
Flags flying at half-staff for Charlie Kirk at Disney World send a powerful message—respect transcends politics. Whatever your views, honoring someone’s life this way shows compassion and humanity. ❤️🙏 #Disney #CharlieKirk pic.twitter.com/FwJO3UQ0d3
— Rosie Rose (@RosieRose1211) September 15, 2025
As part of Disney’s commitment to honoring U.S. Flag traditions, Magic Kingdom Park holds a daily Flag Retreat Ceremony. Each evening, a veteran visiting the original Central Florida Disney park is invited to help retire the flag, accompanied by the playing of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” This special ceremony is held daily at 5:00 p.m. in Town Square. Guests can find updated scheduling information on the official Walt Disney World Resort website or through the My Disney Experience app.
Have you ever noticed half-staff flags around Walt Disney World Resort? Share your story with Disney Fanatic in the comments.
