Disneyland Park to debut 'immersive' new Star Wars experience

Guests will be “transported to a galaxy far, far away” to “live their own Star Wars adventures” as they explore the remote planet of Batuu.

The planet is the newest location in the Star Wars universe, offering “unique sights, sounds, smells, tastes and other immersive experiences”.

Star Wars creator George Lucas, Harrison Ford (Han Solo), Mark Hamill (Luke Skywalker) and Billy Dee Williams (Lando Calrissian) were among the stars to appear at a launch ceremony this week, set to the music of a special score composed by John Williams.

Disney says the attraction is the largest and most technologically advanced single-theme expansion at a Disney park.

Galaxy’s Edge will debut at Disney’s Hollywood Studies in Florida on 29 August.

According to Disney, guests will become part of the story as they sample galactic food and drink, visit merchant shops and take control of the Millennium Falcon.

Action will unfold around guests, with interactions assisted and enhanced by a mobile app, allowing them to shape their own adventure.

Scott Trowbridge, Star Wars portfolio creative executive at Walt Disney Imagineering, said the attraction would “redefine what a Disney experience can be”.

“It invites exploration and discovery, where we can become characters in the Star Wars galaxy,” he said. “More and more, our guests want to lean into these stories; not just be a spectator.

“We’re giving them the opportunity to do just that in this land, with a new level of detail and immersion. This is an opportunity to play and engage with your friends and family in a shared experience that will forge lifelong memories.”