Ever since it opened in 2019, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland has been a masterclass in immersion. We’ve all loved living our own “Age of Resistance” stories, dodging First Order Stormtroopers and joining Rey’s cause. But for fans who grew up with the original trilogy or found a new love for the New Republic era, there’s been a recurring question: “When do we get to see Vader and Luke?”
Well, the wait is almost over. Disneyland just announced that starting April 29, 2026, the timeline at Black Spire Outpost is officially opening up!
A Galaxy of Eras Under One Sky
In a massive shift for the land’s storytelling, Galaxy’s Edge will no longer be “locked” into a single point in the Star Wars timeline. Instead, the land will transition between different eras, allowing guests to encounter legendary characters from across the saga.
Here is what you can look forward to when the jump to lightspeed happens this April:
1. The Return of the Icons
The “Galactic Civil War” is coming to Batuu. You’ll soon be able to spot Luke Skywalker roaming the outpost in search of ancient Jedi artifacts, while Princess Leia recruits travelers near the Millennium Falcon. But where there is light, there is shadow—Darth Vader will also be making his presence known, flanked by Imperial Stormtroopers as he hunts for his son.
And don’t worry, your favorite scoundrel Han Solo will be right where he belongs: lingering near his ship or tempted by a drink at the Cantina.
2. Legendary Music Fills the Air
One of the most exciting updates is the addition of John Williams’ iconic film scores throughout the land. While the ambient sounds of Batuu are immersive, there is nothing quite like hearing the “Main Title” or “The Force Theme” as you walk through the tunnels into Black Spire Outpost. From “The Imperial March” to the “Cantina Band” tune, the music will now change to match the era you’re experiencing.
3. New Look for Old Favorites
As the eras shift, the local shops will adapt, too:
• First Order Cargo will transform into Black Spire Surplus, specializing in military salvage from the Rebel and Imperial days.
• Droid Depot will showcase prototypes of the BB-style droids, run by an earlier generation of the Mubo family.
• Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities will rotate its collection, featuring different “finds” from across the galaxy’s history.
4. Nighttime Magic: “Shadows of Memory”
The day doesn’t end when the sun goes down. A new projection show, “Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga,” will use the towering spires of Batuu as a backdrop to tell the legendary story of the Skywalker family. It’s set to be the perfect companion to the popular “Fire of the Rising Moons” fireworks viewing.
What’s Staying the Same?
Don’t worry—the “Age of Resistance” isn’t going anywhere. You’ll still be able to join the fight on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, pilot the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, and (most importantly) grab a glass of Blue Milk at the Milk Stand.
This update is a dream come true for Star Wars fans. By “unlocking” the timeline, Disney is making Galaxy’s Edge a place where every generation of fans can see their heroes in person.
Are you Team Rebellion, Team Resistance, or are you just here for the Oga’s Cantina vibes? Let me know in the comments who you’re most excited to meet on Batuu!
The timeline expansion officially debuts on April 29, 2026. Be sure to check the Disneyland app for character schedules and showtimes!
Clint Gamache is the owner of ThrillGeek. He started ThrillGeek to share his love of theme/amusement parks and pop culture with the world. You can find him at Halloween Horror Nights. Also, be sure to follow him on Twitter/X, Instagram @iamcg83