Disneyland Galaxy’s Edge Original Trilogy Update 2026: What to Know
Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite is happening on April 28, 30, May 4, and May 6 this year, but tickets are already sold out. The good news is you don’t need a special event ticket to experience the Galaxy’s Edge changes. Everything rolls out during regular park hours starting April 29, and it’s not a limited-time experience. The original trilogy characters and music are here to stay.
That said, if you’re planning a trip specifically for this, late spring and early summer give you the full package: Galaxy’s Edge with original trilogy characters, Hyperspace Mountain, and the new Smugglers Run mission (starting May 22). If your family is debating when to go, this is a solid window. Single-day Disneyland tickets start at $104 for adults and go up depending on the day. And if you’re bringing kids ages 3 to 9 between May 22 and September 7, Disney’s summer deal drops Park Hopper tickets to just $50 per child per day.
Tips for Your Galaxy’s Edge Visit
Oga’s Cantina operates on a walk-up basis now, with no reservations needed. But it’s going to be in high demand once everyone realizes DJ R-3X is spinning the Cantina Band song. Head there early in the day or later in the evening to avoid the longest waits. And honestly, even if you’re not a big drinker, the atmosphere alone is worth stepping inside for a few minutes.
For character sightings, Galaxy’s Edge characters tend to appear at different times throughout the day without a set schedule. Walk the land more than once if you want to catch everyone. Darth Vader will likely draw the biggest crowds, so keep your eyes open near the First Order (now Imperial) areas of the outpost.
If your family has a mix of Star Wars fans and “I’ll watch it if it’s on” types, the original trilogy additions actually make Galaxy’s Edge more accessible. Darth Vader, Luke, and Han Solo are cultural icons beyond just the movies. Even the family member who couldn’t tell you the difference between a Wookiee and an Ewok will probably want a photo with Vader.
This is one of those updates that makes you rethink a Disneyland adventure even if you’ve been recently. If you want help building a trip around the Galaxy’s Edge expansion, or you’re trying to figure out the best dates and ticket strategy for your crew, your Guide is here to help you plan it.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the original trilogy come to Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland?
The original trilogy timeline expansion launches on April 29, 2026, at Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California. This is a permanent addition, not a limited-time event. Galaxy’s Edge at Walt Disney World in Florida is not receiving this update.
Which original trilogy characters will be at Galaxy’s Edge?
Darth Vader, Imperial Stormtroopers, Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo, and Chewbacca will all appear at Galaxy’s Edge starting April 29. Characters roam the land at various times throughout the day without a fixed schedule, so visit the area more than once to catch different encounters.
Is the Galaxy’s Edge original trilogy update at Disneyland or Disney World?
This update is exclusive to Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Walt Disney World will remain in its current sequel trilogy era. There has been no announcement about bringing the original trilogy to the Florida version.
Do I need a special ticket to see the Galaxy’s Edge changes at Disneyland?
No. The original trilogy characters, John Williams music, and all other Galaxy’s Edge updates are included with regular Disneyland Park admission. Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite is a separate ticketed event happening April 28 through May 6, but those tickets are sold out and are not required to experience the new additions.
Do I need reservations for Oga’s Cantina at Disneyland in 2026?
No. Oga’s Cantina at Disneyland currently operates on a walk-up basis with a standby queue. Reservations are no longer offered. Arrive early in the day or later in the evening for shorter wait times, especially after the Galaxy’s Edge expansion launches.