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Six Years Later: Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Continues to Shape Disneyland’s Legacy

Today marks six years since the groundbreaking debut of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park on May 31, 2019. Since then, this expansive 14-acre land has redefined what it means to be immersed in a theme park experience, transporting visitors into the heart of the Star Wars universe and allowing them to become part of a galaxy far, far away.

A group of six friends, holding hands as they explore an exotic theme park with sci-fi vibes, are surrounded by towering spires and dome-like wonders. As the sun casts long shadows, they reminisce about the best Disneyland drinks they've enjoyed on similar adventures.
Credit: Disney

Creating a New Standard for Immersion

Upon entering Galaxy’s Edge, guests find themselves on the remote planet Batuu, a frontier outpost where the line between reality and fiction blurs. The area features meticulously designed attractions, themed shopping, and interactive experiences, creating an environment where Star Wars fans can truly live out their dreams.

The area also includes a variety of shops, dining experiences, and encounters with beloved characters. From creating custom lightsabers at Savi’s Workshop to enjoying a drink at Oga’s Cantina, the immersion is undeniable. These offerings are all carefully crafted to ensure that guests don’t just visit Galaxy’s Edge—they become part of it.

Two Groundbreaking Attractions

Two standout attractions define Galaxy’s Edge as an essential part of the Disneyland experience. Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run allows guests to board the iconic starship and take on different crew roles as they navigate through an exhilarating mission. The ride puts guests in the pilot, engineer, and gunner positions, immersing them in the thrill of spaceflight.

Meanwhile, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance pushes the boundaries of theme park storytelling, with a multi-layered adventure that combines cutting-edge technology, immersive set design, and a compelling narrative. Guests are swept into an epic battle between the Resistance and the First Order, creating one of the most complex and detailed experiences Disney has ever created in a theme park setting.

Hera Syndulla Disneyland
Credit: Disney

A Historic Opening and Unprecedented Investment

The opening of Galaxy’s Edge was a monumental event not only for Disneyland Park but also for Disney’s entire theme park division. The immersive land, with a price tag exceeding $1 billion, marked the company’s largest investment in themed entertainment at the time. The excitement surrounding its debut was palpable, with eager fans waiting in long lines to be among the first to explore the new land.

This expansion also symbolized the dawn of a new era for Disney, following the company’s acquisition of Lucasfilm, which opened the door for further Star Wars-themed experiences across their parks.

Nick Jonas, Joe Jonas, and Kevin Jonas at Star Wars Galaxy's Edge
Credit: Disney

A Lasting Legacy

As Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge celebrates its sixth anniversary, it’s clear that the land has cemented its place as one of Disneyland’s most beloved and impactful additions. Its integration of cutting-edge technology, attention to detail, and interactive elements have set a new standard for theme park design. The immersive experience continues to captivate both new generations of fans and long-time Star Wars enthusiasts, creating lasting memories and forging connections with the saga.

With Galaxy’s Edge, Disney has proven its commitment to creating groundbreaking experiences that push the boundaries of theme park entertainment. As the next chapter unfolds, visitors will continue to embark on their own adventures in this iconic corner of the galaxy.

Here’s to the next six years of adventure—may the Force always be with you.

Eva Miller

Eva was born and raised in the beautiful state of Oregon but has since relocated and lives in New York City. Since she was young, Eva has loved to perform in musicals, especially Disney ones! Through performing, Disney’s music became the soundtrack of her childhood. Today, Eva loves to write about all the exciting happenings for the Walt Disney Company. In her free time, Eva loves to travel, spend time in nature, and go to Broadway shows. Her favorite Disney movie is 'Lilo and Stitch,' and her favorite Park is Disney's Animal Kingdom.

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