Galaxy’s Edge is no longer locked to one Star Wars timeline — and that’s a big deal for Disneyland fans
More eras, more characters, and a deeper Star Wars experience
· TechRadarNews By Jacob Krol published 16 January 2026
(Image credit: Disney Experiences/Disneyland) Share Share by:
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- Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is expanding beyond a single era at Disneyland
- Characters like Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker, Leia Organa, and Han Solo will become permanent fixtures starting April 29, 2026
- The update deepens immersion and includes a new soundscape featuring John Williams' iconic work
It's hard to believe, but it's been nearly 7-years since Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge opened at Disneyland in Anaheim, California, and Disney World's Hollywood Studios in Orlando, Florida. These themed lands marked the first time you could essentially step foot into the Star Wars universe.
In the years since, Galaxy's Edge on the East Coast and West Coast has evolved – we've seen more lightsabers, err, scrap metal, come to the forefront, and new visitors like Luke Skywalker, Ahsoka Tano, the adorable BDX droids, as well as The Mandalorian and Grogu arrive from time to time.
Now, though, Galaxy's Edge at Disneyland is updating its story. While both lands since launch have focused on the most recent trio of films – allowing Rey and Kylo Ren to roam – the West Coast version is going back in time a bit, and I simply couldn't be more excited.
Disneyland has confirmed that starting on April 29, 2026 – that's 103 days away if you're counting – Darth Vader, Leia Organa, Han Solo, and Luke Skywalker will all be permanent fixtures at Galaxy's Edge. Effectively, Batuu – the formal location name for Galaxy's Edge – will contain multiple timelines or parts of the Star Wars universe.
Maybe most importantly, you'll finally be able to have a moment as a park guest with Han and Leia in front of the Millennium Falcon, with Chewbacca nearby as well. Darth Vader, alongside Imperial Stormtroopers, will be on Batuu looking for Luke Skywalker, who'll be roaming the outpost.
Luke, Leia, and Han will be closer to shops and the Millennium Falcon, while Darth Vader and the Imperial Stormtroopers will take over the former First Order area. R2-D2, The Mandalorian with Grogu, and Ahsoka Tano will also be roaming.
Rey will remain near the Resistance section of the land, home to one of the most impressive rides – Rise of the Resistance. It's a personal favorite and one that merges multiple ride systems into one – seriously, watch the ride-through on Disney+ (and check out the deal below for a cheap subscription if you're not currently signed up).
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