Exciting Changes Coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Since its debut in 2019 at Disneyland California and Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has captivated fans with its immersive experiences. As we approach 2026, Disney is preparing to unveil substantial updates to this popular attraction, including new narratives and beloved characters that promise to enhance the park experience like never before.

Expanding the Galaxy’s Edge Timeline

Initially set within a fixed timeframe between The Last Jedi and The Rise of Skywalker, Galaxy’s Edge exclusively featured elements from the sequel trilogy. However, as the demand for broader storytelling options grew, Disney decided to relax this limitation. The introduction of characters like Mandalorian and Grogu signals a shift toward a more inclusive timeline. Starting April 29, 2026, Disneyland will expand its narrative to include characters from the original Star Wars trilogy, including Luke Skywalker, Leia Organa, and Darth Vader. This initiative aims to offer guests a more diverse experience, allowing them to interact with the iconic heroes of the galaxy.

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Major Revamp of the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

Set to launch on May 22, 2026, both Disneyland and Disney’s Hollywood Studios will premiere a reimagined version of Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. This revamped ride will see Mandalorian and Grogu integrated into the story, making it a must-see for fans. This new installment is especially significant as it marks the first Star Wars film release in theaters since The Rise of Skywalker.

The evolution of the ride represents a significant investment by Disney in enriching the Star Wars narrative within the parks. While Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance will remain tied to the sequel trilogy, Smugglers Run will now offer multiple timelines and characters, providing a more dynamic experience for guests of all ages.

New Planetary Destinations and Storylines

The upgraded version of Smugglers Run will maintain its starting point on Batuu but will introduce exciting new destinations like Tatooine, Endor, and Bespin. Riders will embark on a mission that involves tracking down ex-Imperial officers, creating a more engaging storyline than ever before. This change not only enhances the ride’s narrative depth but also draws on the rich lore of the Star Wars universe.

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Interactive Choices and Enhanced Roles for Riders

A standout feature of the redesigned Smugglers Run is the ability for riders to choose their planetary destination, much like Star Tours. The choice aspect adds a layer of interactivity to the ride, ensuring that each experience can be unique. Both rides use the thrill of discovery to create a sense of excitement and anticipation.

Furthermore, the engineer role within the ride will be revamped, giving guests the opportunity to communicate with Grogu and select their final destination. This enhancement is expected to make the engineer position one of the most sought-after roles by guests, offering a new level of engagement and interaction.

Upgraded Technology and Seamless Transition

As part of the improvements, Disney will utilize advanced technologies, including the Unreal Engine, to polish the ride’s visuals significantly. These advancements, in collaboration with Epic Games, will ensure that the graphics are smoother and more responsive than ever before. Notably, the ride will not require closure for these updates, allowing it to remain operational until changes are implemented overnight.

This seamless transition is a relief for enthusiasts eager to experience the new version without the usual downtime associated with ride upgrades. For more on technology advancements at Disney parks, see this Disney Technology article.

The Future of Galaxy’s Edge and Hollywood Studios

With the introduction of new attractions and updates, both Disneyland and Disney’s Hollywood Studios are poised to elevate their status as premier destinations for fans. Alongside the revamped Smugglers Run, Hollywood Studios will see the debut of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets on May 26 and a new stage show called Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!. These changes signify a busy calendar filled with exciting experiences for park visitors.

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As Disney continues to innovate and expand the Star Wars universe throughout its theme parks, visitors can anticipate an even more immersive and entertaining experience that honors the saga’s rich legacy. From expanded timelines to interactive rides, the future of Galaxy’s Edge is undeniably bright.