Disney Announces ‘Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge’ Opening Dates

The galaxy isn’t very far, far away after all: Disney has revealed the opening dates for the much-anticipated Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge lands, to debut at Disneyland Resort California May 31 and Disney’s Hollywood Studios Florida August 29.

The Star Wars-themed lands were originally slated to open later this year. Due to popular demand, both lands will now open in two phases, to allow guests earlier access.

Here are some things you should know about the new attractions:

What to Expect

Guests will enter Galaxy’s Edge by “transporting” to the remote planet Batuu to live out their own Star Wars saga. A Disney news release describes Batuu as a far-flung destination along the galaxy’s outer rim. During their adventures, visitors can expect to rub elbows with favorite characters like BB-8, Finn and Chewie.

Stellar New Rides

The 14-acre sites will each feature new rides — Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. The latter will open during phase two at both parks, according to the release.

Millennium Falcon will take guests into the cockpit of “the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy.” They will control various aspects of the ship as it zooms through space. Rise of the Resistance will place guests in the middle of an intense rebellion and give them a role in the fight against the First Order, including a faceoff with Kylo Ren. 

What’s on the Menu

Guests will finally be able to sip on Blue Milk — a drink made famous in "Star Wars: Episode IV: A New Hope." Other specialty beverages will include a Dagobah Slug Slinger and a T-16 Skyhopper, served at Oga’s Cantina. Alcoholic drink specials will be available at lands in both destinations. 

A mobile shuttle will act as a “traveling diner for diners traveling,” serving up unusual dishes with exotic flavors. Other dining options will include a fired-up barbecue pit and a gourmet popcorn stand featuring a combination of sweet, savory and salty flavors. 

Getting Techy

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is the first Disney area designed to integrate with the Play Disney Parks mobile app. When guests use the app, it will provide new opportunities for them to engage with the land, such as translating a galactic language, accomplishing certain tasks and participating in secret missions.

A Galactic Resort

Though announced as being in “initial stages,” the opening date for a Star Wars-themed resort at Walt Disney World Resorts Orlando has not yet been announced. 

Reserve a Spot in the Galaxy

The themed areas will be the largest Disney has ever built, though capacity will be limited. Disneyland guests planning to visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge during its early days will be required to make a free reservation via disneyland.com to access the Anaheim park. Admission will be granted on a first-come, first-serve basis. Disneyland Resort hotel guests will receive a designated reservation to access Galaxy's Edge during their stay, included with valid theme park admission.