In contrast to the diverse preferred areas at Disneyland Resort, it’s evident that the ‘Star Wars’ franchise is a consistent element woven throughout the park. Given this, it’s logical for Disney to devote a season to this intellectual property and host an event for fans to express their passion for all things ‘Star Wars’. Game Rant recently explored Disneyland Resort in Anaheim to examine the 2025 Season of the Force offerings, along with the after-hours Star Wars Nite event, to witness any updates, enhancements, or advancements made.
Season of the Force is an Added Bonus for Disneyland Guests
For devoted Star Wars enthusiasts, Disneyland has crafted an extensive list of activities, sights (not to mention dining and shopping experiences), offering more chances than ever before to explore the distant galaxy. The Season of the Force, which runs until May 11, 2025, is designed specifically with Star Wars fans in mind, serving as an extra layer of excitement. Last year, they added a scene featuring Ahsoka to Star Tours, a chance for a photo with Sabine Wren, new food options, and more. For the Season of the Force 2025, there may not be any major additions on par with Star Tours, but the theme park has come up with several fantastic ways to honor this beloved IP.
Saying Hello to Luke Skywalker in Galaxy’s Edge
Initially, Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge was intended to primarily focus on the timeline associated with Episodes 7, 8, and 9. However, following the popularity of The Mandalorian, Disneyland has become more flexible about this. Now, you might encounter characters like Rey, Kylo Ren, or Chewbacca as easily as you would come across The Mandalorian (with Grogu), Ahsoka, and Boba Fett. Additionally, during the Season of the Force 2025, you may have a chance to meet Luke Skywalker strolling around Galaxy’s Edge, possibly accompanied by R2-D2.
An encounter with Luke Skywalker at Disneyland is uncommon, and capturing a picture with the legendary Jedi Master is a delightful experience. The actor portraying him was remarkable, managing to be both friendly and authentic in his role, and his resemblance to Mark Hamill is quite striking. Taking photos during the meet-and-greets in Batuu can be tricky as the characters don’t stay still for long, but you can still get a decent shot with Luke Skywalker.
Star Wars Rides are Still Among Disneyland’s Best
In the previous year, Star Tours added a new segment showcasing the Purrgil space whales from Ahsoka. However, when Season of the Force returns in 2025, it will revert to its original randomized scene rotation. Although you may encounter characters like Cassian Andor or The Mandalorian, classic planets such as Coruscant and Naboo have been reintroduced too.
During the Season of the Force, Space Mountain transforms into Hyperspace Mountain with a Star Wars theme running throughout the journey. The narrative, music, and visual projections all incorporate elements from Star Wars, with Tie Fighters and Star Destroyers being prominently featured. Some purists might argue otherwise, but I personally believe that Hyperspace Mountain offers an enhanced experience compared to the original ride.
Season of the Force Food
Among all Disneyland’s seasonal events, I particularly enjoy the food offerings, and Season of the Force is no exception to this delight. The menu showcases a mix of returning classics and novel creations, with an array of tantalizing dishes to savor. Some items exhibit distinct flavor profiles, such as the Galactic Gyro Burger and the Fried Chicken Baos, while others appear otherworldly or alien, like the Peka Pretzel. Disneyland excels at producing desserts inspired by Star Wars characters and symbols, including churros dyed like lightsabers and cookies resembling Grogu.
If you’re in the mood for taking an Instagram-worthy photo or simply craving something special, Season of the Force offers a variety of tasty food options, ranging from savory to sweet. Among the many items I sampled, my top pick is the Fried Falumpaset Cheese Skewer, sold at Ronto Roasters. This delightful treat resembles a cheese corn dog, with a potato-coated crust that pairs wonderfully with a mustard-cheese sauce. The cheese filling offers a satisfying saltiness, while the fried exterior carries a hint of sweetness from the potato. Lastly, the sauce adds the perfect tangy touch to complete the dish.
In Galaxy’s Edge, they often retain certain fan-favorite Season of the Force goods even after the event concludes, and I eagerly anticipate the Fried Falumpaset Cheese Skewer becoming a permanent offering. Additionally, if you haven’t tried the Ronto Wrap from Ronto Roasters at Disneyland Resort, it’s truly one of their standout food items.
Star Wars-Themed Shows are a Season of the Force Highlight
Title Event: Shadows of Memory: The Skywalker Saga – A Must-See Highlight of Season of the Force
In brief, this is an extraordinary nighttime display that takes place in Galaxy’s Edge, showcasing the journey of Anakin Skywalker, from his rise to fall, and the subsequent ascension of Luke and Leia. The visual effects used are captivating, creating a feeling of depth that leaves you breathless when viewed on the spires of Galaxy’s Edge. The presentation is so immersive that it makes the galaxy appear larger and more intricate. It’s hard not to get engrossed in the narrative unfolding before your eyes. This show is a must-see for any Star Wars enthusiast!
On certain evenings, Galaxy’s Edge stage a spectacular fireworks display called Fire of the Rising Moons. This show builds upon Disneyland’s standard fireworks but infuses Star Wars-inspired music and commentary, offering a fresh take on a classic park event. Whether you’re an ardent Star Wars fan or not, immersing yourself in this environment, particularly when everyone lifts their lightsabers at a key instant, it’s challenging not to feel a shiver run down your spine.
Popcorn Buckets are a Star Wars Collector’s Dream
During the Season of the Force, star-struck fans can discover an array of fresh Star Wars merchandise scattered across the park. For avid collectors, unique items like this Tauntaun-themed popcorn bucket are must-haves, but there’s a diverse selection available in varying sizes. Disneyland consistently delivers immersive Star Wars merchandise for Season of the Force by focusing on a specific design or aesthetic, ensuring that every enthusiast will be drawn to at least one irresistible item.
Checking Out Star Wars Nite at Disneyland
During any season at Disneyland Resort, visitors can enjoy Season of the Force activities. However, Star Wars Night is an exclusive, separately-ticketed event that happens after regular hours on certain nights. On these evenings, the park closes early for general admission guests, and only those who have purchased a Star Wars Night ticket are allowed in. They’ll be recognized by special wristbands and lanyards.
At 6pm sharp, the Star Wars Night officially kicks off in Disneyland, allowing ticket holders early entrance. However, the main events such as character interactions won’t start until 9pm. But don’t worry, you can grab your dinner as early as 8pm. To make things smoother, I suggest using mobile ordering for some of your preferred dishes and scheduling them for the night itself.
Star Wars Takes Over Disneyland at Night
At Star Wars Night, Disneyland transforms almost entirely into a Star Wars universe. While your favorite rides remain, there are additional thematic elements sprinkled throughout the park. Moreover, iconic music from the franchise’s 45+-year legacy fills the air through speakers. This event serves as a unique experience for fans of both Star Wars and Disneyland to seamlessly blend their passions into one immersive experience.
Discovering Disneyland at night is an enjoyable experience in itself, but with the addition of light displays and projections on Main Street, It’s a Small World, Cinderella’s Castle, and during Star Wars Nite, it’s hard not to feel joyful! The area around the Walt Disney statue features a series of laser beams, a DJ playing Star Wars tunes alongside traditional music, and a live band on Tom Sawyer’s Island. Everywhere you look, there’s some new aspect of Star Wars-themed decor, with guests dressed up, showcasing Star Wars merchandise, wielding lightsabers, or a blend of these elements. The atmosphere is electrifying, whether you’re a Star Wars enthusiast or not.
Unique Photo Ops and Special Character Meet-and-Greets
If you’re carrying a life-sized Star Wars lightsaber for the night event, it’s likely that you’ll be keen on taking numerous photos. Disneyland provides ample chances for this, with photo opportunities scattered throughout the park and distinctive character meet-and-greets. You can visit spots themed like famous Star Wars locations such as Hoth or Scarif. Alternatively, you could hop on a speed bike for a lively duo shot. The most exclusive chance is capturing a picture with characters like Queen Amidala, Anakin Skywalker, or an Ewok.
At Disneyland, character meet-and-greets play a significant role in creating an unforgettable experience. You’ll find a variety of iconic characters from Star Wars, ensuring there’s plenty to keep you engaged! Keep in mind that the most popular characters might have long queues, but the excitement and memories you’ll make will certainly be worth it. Disneyland photographers are on hand to help with poses, and a free Photo Pass is included for capturing these special moments.
In addition to the regular characters found at Galaxy’s Edge (such as the Mandalorian and Rey), you might encounter them strolling around the park for photo opportunities. Moreover, you can spot Captain Phasma in Tomorrowland meandering about. The most thrilling character encounter is gazing up from the Tomorrowland terrace to see Emperor Palpatine accompanied by his Imperial Guard. Interestingly, when Palpatine isn’t present, Darth Maul takes over, pacing the terrace with his double-edged lightsaber in hand.
Merch and Food are Plentiful at Star Wars Nite
Just like Season of the Force, Star Wars Night offers a variety of exclusive merchandise tailored for the event. This year’s designs featured clean lines and vibrant colors that were quite appealing. I managed to restrain myself from buying too much, but I did treat myself to a couple of items since I’m a pin collector. The Cast Members mentioned that both options were selling fast. You can find the Star Wars Night merchandise in either Galaxy’s Edge by the Millennium Falcon or near the Space Mountain exit next to Star Traders.
At Star Wars Night, there were numerous dining choices scattered throughout the park, and it seemed as though each eatery offered a distinct dish. Similar to Season of the Force, some dishes appeared otherworldly, boasted unusual flavors, or aimed to resemble a character’s design. Everything I sampled was scrumptious, from the Princess Sundae, which had two cinnamon rolls like Leia’s hair, to the Bantha Stroganoff, but the Dagobah Beignets were my absolute favorite of the evening. Beignets are a traditional Disneyland snack, and the harmonious blend of matcha powdered sugar with the matcha dipping sauce made these truly exceptional. Honestly, the difficulty lay in choosing which dishes to try within the limited 5-hour timeframe.
Even Non-Star Wars Fans Can Have Fun During the Event
Absolutely, as a die-hard movie buff and Star Wars enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that Star Wars is indeed a key attraction in Disneyland’s theme park lineup, especially during Star Wars Nite. My top recommendation would be to make a beeline for Rise of the Resistance at the earliest opportunity because it shuts down before the event concludes and is undoubtedly going to be the most sought-after ride of the night. If you haven’t experienced Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance yet, let me tell you, it’s simply one of the finest theme park rides out there!
Other attractions worth checking out during this special event include Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run, Hyperspace Mountain, and Star Tours. The added adrenaline rush from fellow fans makes these rides even more exhilarating.
Star Wars Nite at Disneyland might still be an enjoyable experience even if you’re not a die-hard Star Wars fan. This is because the event offers a less crowded version of Disneyland, with significantly shorter wait times for most rides – often just a few minutes, which can feel like walk-ons. The more popular attractions may have waits around 15 minutes, but even that’s much less than what you’d typically encounter during a regular day at Disneyland. If you’re mainly interested in revisiting your favorite Disneyland rides repeatedly and aren’t too concerned about Star Wars-themed food, characters, or decor, you could easily spend 6 hours or more having a great time.
Star Wars Nite is a Memorable Experience at Disneyland
If you’re considering doing it all – sampling food, interacting with characters, capturing moments through photography, and enjoying various rides, then Star Wars Nite at Disneyland Resort could be an exceptional choice. Surrounded by fellow Star Wars enthusiasts and hearing the music reverberate throughout the park creates a unique atmosphere that I found truly enjoyable. There’s plenty to engage in during this event, so you might need to prioritize certain activities over others; however, everything is entertaining and definitely worth considering for a ticket purchase this year or in the future.
The final performances of Star Wars Night are scheduled for April 29, May 1st, May 4th, and May 6th at Disneyland Resort. Game Rant was given a Disneyland admission pass to experience Season of the Force and a special ticket for a sneak peek at the after-hours Star Wars Night event.
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2025-04-25 10:15