25 4th of July Movies for Kids That Will Spark So Much Joy

Captain America embodies patriotism simply through his name—and his purpose. However, the true American story lies in how a small, unassuming young man transformed into the best version of himself, ultimately saving the country (and later the world) in the process.

"Life is like a box of chocolates..." is the famous line from this movie that practically everyone knows. The heartwarming story follows a wholesome man who is able to defeat the odds that the world has stacked against him—all with the steadfast support of his devoted mother.

Samantha is the president's daughter, a role she's still learning to navigate. All she wants is to live like an ordinary girl, and with college on the horizon, this might finally be her chance to make that dream a reality.

The President of the United States has everything under control—except his love life. That all changes when he meets a captivating environmental lobbyist who turns his world upside down.

"Houston, we have a problem." Tom Hanks utters this iconic (if slightly erroneous) line as astronaut Jim Lovell in this gripping film about NASA's most remarkable failure-turned-success.

Falling in love is what finally gets this con man to change his ways and turn his life around. This feel-good, flag-waving movie is perfect for your family's Independence Day viewing.

As a small beach town faces a deadly shark threat, the fight for survival becomes a gripping tale of courage and teamwork. Since this suspenseful flick takes place during 4th of July weekend, it's a patriotic pick by default. 😉 🦈

This classic film explores President Abraham Lincoln's early years as a young lawyer tackling his most challenging court case. Henry Fonda delivers a compelling performance, making it a must-watch.

Rocky tells the inspiring story of a small-time boxer on his journey to stardom. Sylvester Stallone delivers a standout performance, creating an underdog tale that has become a true American classic.

The Sandlot follows a group of young baseball players growing up in the early '60s, but it’s about more than just the game. It’s a heartwarming tale of friendship, childhood innocence, and the simple joys of growing up. It also happens to feature a super fun 4th of July scene involving a big game, fireworks, and Ray Charles's "America the Beautiful."

This patriotic '40s fare follows the life of song and dance man George M. Cohan (James Cagney) who was known as much for his love of the country as he was for his showmanship. What better way to get your kids in the 4th of July spirit than by introducing them to classic American songs like "Yankee Doodle Dandy," "You're a Grand Old Flag" and "Over There"?

This inspiring movie will teach your little ones all about the team of brilliant female mathematicians who helped launch astronaut John Glenn into orbit.

Your kids will appreciate the fun spirit of this action-adventure movie about a historian (Nicolas Cage) in search of a hidden treasure involving our Founding Fathers and the Declaration of Independence.

It's no coincidence that there are three baseball movies on this list. It is America's pastime, after all! In this baseball biopic, the late, great Chadwick Boseman plays the late, great Jackie Robinson, the first Black athlete to play Major League Baseball in the modern era.

Ever wonder what Paul Revere's side of the story was? This educational (but wonderfully made) film does a good job at showing just that. Your kids will feel more connected than ever to America's turning point in history after watching this.

The highly anticipated filmed version of the Broadway production Hamilton is now available on Disney+. This hip-hop musical offers a groundbreaking and engaging look at one of America's founding fathers and is best for older children.

This animated musical tells the story of a young Russian mouse named Fievel who emigrates to America with his family in 1885 in search of freedom and the American Dream. After he is separated from his parents, Fievel embarks on the adventure of a lifetime to find them.

They're all for one, they're one for all, they're All-American! This funny, heartwarming movie tells the (fictionalized) story of the real-life All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, which was formed amid World War II. Watch this flick for its female empowerment theme and feel-good, patriotic vibes.

The 1982 film adaptation of the popular musical tells the story of Annie, a little orphan who is taken in by America's richest billionaire. Annie's happy ending features a 4th of July fireworks celebration, making it a fitting film to watch on this special holiday!

There may not be an exact 4th of July scene, but there are fireworks (literally and figuratively 😂) and a ton of summer camp goodness in this epic Disney kids' movie.