New York — There was a special light and sound celebration on Liberty Island at one of the country’s most iconic landmarks.
The Statue of Liberty is more than just a place to visit – it represents something much bigger. It is a symbol of freedom, democracy and enlightenment.
It was a gift from the French in 1886 – a promise of copper.
Now that promise takes on a new glow with another gift from France, this one celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.
It’s called the “Lights of Freedom” — lighting that’s the first of its kind and it’s amazing.
“We wanted to make something special for our American friends,” French Consul General Cédric Forescot said.
You’ll get to see it up close and personal during Disney Celebrates America – 24 hours, 50 states and 1 country – and the people and places that make it so special.
Debra O’Connell, president of Disney Entertainment Television, helped kick off the ceremony, which included a special flyover by the French Air Force.
It all led to a stunning light show, which was a gift from France.
“It’s really the ultimate moment when you think about what the Statue of Liberty represents, and what it represents so much,” O’Connell said. “All I know is that we believe in it and how special this country is, and what it means to be able to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, and to do it in a way that only The Walt Disney Company can bring these special moments to people across the country and around the world.”
Fighter planes helped get things started and ABC News’ Deborah Roberts was on board the lead plane. On the floor, ABC News correspondent Stephanie Ramos sang the national anthem.
“As a veteran, I have been in the Army Reserve for 24 years, and it has been an amazing journey to be able to serve my country and also be a journalist and reporter at ABC News,” Ramos said.
Ramos said the light display moved her to tears.
It’s a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds and a beacon of hope as Lady Liberty shines like you’ve never seen her before.
ABC is celebrating America’s 250th anniversary with 24 hours of unparalleled programming called “Disney Celebrates America.”
Led by David Muir, anchor of ABC News’ “World News Tonight,” the multiplatform broadcast will include coverage of all 50 states, beginning July 3 and continuing through July 4.
Coverage begins at 10 PM ET on Friday, July 3 with an unforgettable artistic event that transforms the public’s experience of the Statue of Liberty with the Consulate General of France and Muir taking viewers for a rare look inside Lady Liberty.
As the clock strikes midnight on Saturday, July 4, ABC News will bring audiences to the nation’s first show in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
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