Beginning April 29, 2026, Disneyland’s Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge will undergo a significant timeline expansion, introducing characters from the original film trilogy. This change marks a pivotal shift in the park’s narrative, moving away from the sequel trilogy focus that has characterized the attraction since its opening.
The expansion will allow guests to encounter iconic characters such as Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, Leia Organa, Han Solo, and Chewbacca, enriching the immersive experience of Batuu. The timeline shift is designed to evoke nostalgia while integrating modern storytelling elements, as the park aims to appeal to both long-time fans and new visitors alike.
In conjunction with this expansion, the comic series “Echoes of the Empire” will launch on April 22, 2026, featuring five issues that will delve into the narrative changes taking place within the park. This series aims to bridge the gap between the existing storyline and the new elements being introduced.
Notably, only Disneyland in California will receive this timeline expansion at this time, with Disney World remaining unchanged. This exclusivity may lead to increased attendance at Disneyland as fans flock to experience the new offerings. The starting cost per guest for special events, such as the Disneyland After Dark Star Wars Nite, is set at $174, reflecting the heightened interest surrounding the expansion.
As part of the timeline shift, Kylo Ren’s First Order influence will be replaced with Imperial and Rebel storylines, allowing for a more classic Star Wars experience. Additionally, the original version of the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run will be replaced with a new mission featuring The Mandalorian and Grogu, debuting on May 22, 2026. This change is expected to further enhance the attraction’s appeal.
While Oga’s Cantina has recently reopened after refurbishment with minor changes related to the timeline shift, Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities is currently closed for updates in preparation for the new narrative direction. The expansion will also feature recognizable selections of John Williams’ Star Wars music, further immersing guests in the beloved universe.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding whether the original version of Smugglers Run will remain in rotation after the new mission debuts. As the timeline expansion approaches, fans and visitors alike are eager to see how these changes will reshape their experiences in the Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge.
