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Season of the Force Awakens at Disneyland 2025

A long time ago, in a theme park not so far away, Disneyland launched a Star Wars celebration that has since become a must-do for fans of the galaxy far, far away. Season of the Force transforms Disneyland into a Star Wars wonderland, bringing exclusive entertainment, ride overlays, collectibles, themed food, and unforgettable encounters. Whether you’re a lifelong Jedi, a Sith sympathizer, or just looking for a unique Disneyland experience, this guide will help you plan the ultimate visit to Season of the Force 2025!

Why Season of the Force is a Can’t-Miss Event

Season of the Force is Disneyland’s annual Star Wars festival, celebrated in both Tomorrowland and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. It’s more than just a collection of themed snacks or a few decorations-it’s a full-park takeover that immerses guests in the Star Wars universe with limited-time attractions, dazzling nighttime spectaculars, exclusive merchandise, character meet-and-greets, and so much more. For fans, it’s the closest you can get to living your own Star Wars story.

History of Season of the Force at Disneyland

Season of the Force at Disneyland has become a legendary celebration for Star Wars fans, but its history is as dynamic and exciting as the event itself. The inaugural Season of the Force launched in 2015, riding the wave of renewed Star Wars excitement with the release of The Force Awakens. Originally, it was created to bridge the gap before the grand opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, giving fans a taste of immersive Star Wars experiences in Tomorrowland. The event was such a hit that it returned in subsequent years, each time leveling up with new overlays, entertainment, and exclusive offerings.

From the very beginning, Hyperspace Mountain became the crown jewel of the event. This thrilling overlay transforms Space Mountain into a galactic dogfight, complete with X-wings, TIE fighters, and a pulse-pounding John Williams soundtrack. Fans have eagerly awaited its return each year, often debating whether it’s even better than the original ride. Meanwhile, Star Tours – The Adventures Continue has kept pace with the evolving Star Wars universe, debuting new destinations and characters like Ahsoka Tano, Cassian Andor, the Mandalorian, and Grogu, plus the addition of Purrgil (the majestic space whales) for an ever-changing adventure.

As Galaxy’s Edge opened in 2019, Season of the Force expanded its reach, uniting Tomorrowland’s classic attractions with the immersive world of Batuu. This solved one of Disneyland’s biggest Star Wars storytelling challenges: connecting the old and new corners of the galaxy for a truly cohesive experience. The event now bridges both lands, with interactive elements like a scavenger hunt that starts at The Star Trader in Tomorrowland and leads guests on a quest through Galaxy’s Edge, culminating in a collectible souvenir.

Each year, the event has grown more ambitious. Season of the Force now features dazzling nighttime entertainment, like “Fire of the Rising Moons”-a fireworks experience in Galaxy’s Edge set to iconic Star Wars music. This unique show lets guests watch Disneyland’s fireworks from a whole new vantage point, surrounded by the spires of Batuu and enveloped in John Williams’ legendary score. In 2025, the event introduced “Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga,” a breathtaking projection show that reimagines the Skywalker saga with custom animation, lighting up the Millennium Falcon and the landscape of Batuu.

One of the most exciting developments in recent years is the appearance of beloved characters who were previously absent due to timeline restrictions in Galaxy’s Edge. In 2025, for the first time, Luke Skywalker himself appears on Batuu, sometimes accompanied by R2-D2, interacting with guests and adding a magical, cinematic touch to the land. This expansion of character encounters hints at even more surprises in future events.

Season of the Force also brings out Disneyland’s creative side with themed food, exclusive merchandise (like the must-have Death Star popcorn bucket, which lights up and features authentic sound effects), and unique Star Wars art installations-such as the massive spinning Death Star cake in the Grand Californian Hotel lobby. Special donuts, treats, and drinks can be found throughout the resort, making the event a culinary adventure as well.

What started as a stopgap celebration has become a beloved annual tradition, now running from late March through early May to encompass Star Wars Day (May the Fourth) and the popular Star Wars Nite after-hours parties. Each year, Season of the Force draws fans from across the galaxy to experience new adventures, relive classic moments, and celebrate the enduring magic of Star Wars at Disneyland.

2025 Dates and Ticket Pricing

  • Event Dates: March 28 – May 11, 2025

  • Location: Disneyland Park (primarily Tomorrowland and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge)

  • Ticket Pricing: Standard Disneyland Park admission is required. No separate ticket is needed for Season of the Force activities, but special after-hours events like Star Wars Nite require an additional ticket.

  • Deals: While Season of the Force is included with regular admission, look for special offers on multi-day tickets and hotel packages, especially if you plan to visit during Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration later in May.

Entertainment and Shows

Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga (NEW for 2025)

A breathtaking nightly projection show in Galaxy’s Edge, debuting March 28. Projections illuminate the spires of Batuu near the Millennium Falcon, taking guests on a journey through the Skywalker saga with iconic music and visuals. Check the Disneyland app for showtimes and arrive early for the best viewing spots.

Fire of the Rising Moons

A unique fireworks viewing experience in Galaxy’s Edge, set to John Williams’ legendary Star Wars score. Watch the Disneyland fireworks from the Black Spire Spaceport, TIE Echelon docking platform, or speeder garage for a truly immersive experience. MagicBand+ users get synchronized lights and vibrations for added immersion.

Star Wars Nite (Separate Ticketed Event)

Star Wars Nite at Disneyland is a separately ticketed, after-hours event held on select nights during Season of the Force, and it’s truly a dream come true for Star Wars fans. The park transforms into a galactic celebration, offering immersive experiences and exclusive entertainment you won’t find during regular park hours.

Exclusive Character Encounters
This is the best time to meet rare and beloved Star Wars characters. In 2025, guests can encounter Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo, Queen Amidala, Anakin Skywalker, Boba Fett, The Mandalorian with Grogu, Sabine Wren, Hera Syndulla, Chopper, Darth Vader, Darth Maul, Emperor Palpatine with Royal Guards, Jawas, Ewoks, and a variety of droids like R2-D2, BB-8, and C1-10P. Many of these meet-and-greets are unique to Star Wars Nite and often feature elaborate backdrops and professional PhotoPass photographers, with unlimited digital downloads included in your event ticket.

Immersive Entertainment
The night is packed with themed shows and performances. You can join a lightsaber instructional demonstration at Fantasyland Theatre, participate in “A Gathering of the Resistance with Rey” at Galaxy’s Edge, or take part in “Choose Your Path,” an interactive experience where you can declare your allegiance to the light or dark side on Main Street, U.S.A. There’s also a “Fans of the Force Costume Cavalcade,” where guests show off their best Star Wars cosplay, and a Galactic DJ Party Zone on Main Street, U.S.A. featuring a Star Wars-themed dance party with surprise character appearances.

Themed Photo Ops and Decor
Throughout the park, you’ll find specially staged photo locations that bring iconic Star Wars scenes to life-giant postcards from various planets, thrones of Emperor Palpatine and Boba Fett, and even a Mythosaur skull. Themed projections light up Main Street, Sleeping Beauty Castle, and “it’s a small world,” immersing you in the Star Wars universe at every turn.

Shorter Waits for Attractions
With limited capacity, Star Wars Nite offers much shorter wait times for popular rides like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, Star Tours, and Hyperspace Mountain. Many guests report being able to ride favorites multiple times with little to no wait.

Special Food, Merch, and Collectibles
The event features exclusive Star Wars-themed snacks, drinks, and collectible items such as the coveted Coaxium Sipper and Tauntaun Popcorn Bucket, available only during Star Wars Nite. Magic Key holders can also receive a special commemorative gift, like a collectible button set.

Dress the Part
Unlike regular park hours, Star Wars Nite invites guests of all ages to dress in full Star Wars costumes (within Disneyland’s guidelines), making it a fantastic opportunity to cosplay as your favorite Jedi, Sith, smuggler, or droid and get incredible photos throughout the park.

Event Details

  • Star Wars Nite runs from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., but ticket holders can enter Disneyland as early as 6 p.m. to get a head start.

  • Tickets start at $169 per guest (ages 3 and up) and often sell out quickly.

  • Upon entry, guests receive a commemorative credential and event guide map to help plan their galactic adventure.

From rare character encounters and themed entertainment to exclusive merchandise and minimal crowds, Star Wars Nite is a can’t-miss experience for anyone who loves the galaxy far, far away.

Special Rides and Attractions

Attraction Overlay/Experience Location
Hyperspace Mountain Space Mountain transforms with Star Wars music, projections, and a Rebel Alliance storyline. Tie Fighters and Star Destroyers fill the darkness. Tomorrowland
Star Tours Features randomized scenes with characters from across the Star Wars saga, including Ahsoka, Cassian Andor, The Mandalorian, and classic planets like Coruscant and Naboo. Tomorrowland
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run Fly the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy. Galaxy’s Edge
Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance Join the Resistance in a battle against the First Order. Galaxy’s Edge
 

Merchandise, Gifts, and Collectibles

Season of the Force is a collector’s paradise, with exclusive and limited-edition Star Wars merchandise available only during the event.

  • Spirit Jerseys: “May the Force be with you” designs

  • Darth Vader Baseball Cap, Star Wars Day 2025 Youth T-Shirt, Hoth Loungefly Backpack: Must-have apparel and accessories for fans

  • Death Star Popcorn Bucket: This collectible is always a crowd favorite and sells out quickly-grab one early in your visit

  • Limited Pins, Mugs, and More: Look for event-specific pins, mugs, and other keepsakes at The Star Trader and shops in Galaxy’s Edge

Food and Drink

Disneyland brings out its culinary creativity for Season of the Force, with themed food and drink offerings across the park.

Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo

  • Dewback Chili Noodles: Spiced fettuccine with gingered ground pork, brussels sprout leaves, and shredded red cabbage

  • Fried Chicken Baos: Two crispy chicken baos with sweet chili sauce, scallion salad, and cucumber coins

Milk Stand

  • Toydaria Swirl: Green milk with chile-lime seasoning and mango popping spheres

Oga’s Cantina

  • Oga’s Obsession: Lemonade with wild strawberry flavor, yogurt-filled popping spheres, and candy pebbles

  • Ne’tra gal Ale: White Wampa Ale with apple cider and cherry purée, served in a souvenir Mythosaur Mug

Other Star Wars Snacks

  • Galactic Gyro Burger, Fried Chicken Baos, Peka Pretzel: Unique flavors and Instagram-worthy presentations

  • Lightsaber Churros: Churros colored like lightsabers, perfect for a snack and a photo op

  • Grogu Cookies: Adorable treats modeled after The Child

Star Wars Stores and Shopping

  • The Star Trader (Tomorrowland): The main hub for Star Wars merchandise outside Galaxy’s Edge. Features apparel, toys, collectibles, and the starting point for the Season of the Force scavenger hunt.

  • Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities (Galaxy’s Edge): A treasure trove of rare Star Wars artifacts, legacy lightsabers, kyber crystals, and collectibles.

  • First Order Cargo & Resistance Supply: Find costumes, accessories, and exclusive event merchandise.

Lightsaber Building: Savi’s Workshop

Building a custom lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop is a bucket-list experience for Star Wars fans. For Season of the Force 2025, Savi’s introduces the new “Reclaimed and Reforged” hilt theme, featuring scrap metal parts inspired by ancient battles and the galaxy’s outer rim. This experience is extremely popular-reservations are highly recommended and can be made via the Disneyland app.

  • Other Themes: Peace and Justice, Power and Control, Elemental Nature, Protection and Defense

  • Price: Expect to pay around $250+ for the full experience, including your custom saber and carrying case

Character Meet-and-Greets

Season of the Force brings rare and beloved Star Wars characters to Disneyland for unforgettable encounters and photo ops:

  • Luke Skywalker (NEW for 2025): Appearing in Galaxy’s Edge, often accompanied by R2-D2. Luke interacts with guests, sometimes walking with them and sharing wisdom.

  • Darth Vader, Kylo Ren, Rey, The Mandalorian & Grogu: Appearances in both Tomorrowland and Galaxy’s Edge.

  • Sabine Wren, Ahsoka Tano, Cassian Andor: Occasional appearances, especially during Star Wars Nite.

  • Stormtroopers, Resistance Fighters, and More: Roaming characters add to the immersive atmosphere.

Planning and Packing Tips

  • Arrive Early: Popular rides and character encounters draw big crowds. Rope drop is your friend.

  • Use the Disneyland App: Check showtimes, join virtual queues, mobile order food, and track character locations in real time.

  • Portable Charger: Essential for keeping your phone powered up for photos, Genie+, and mobile orders.

  • Dress the Part: Star Wars-themed outfits and DisneyBounding are encouraged, but check Disneyland’s costume guidelines for adults.

  • Reservations: Book Savi’s Workshop and Oga’s Cantina as early as possible.

  • Photo Ops: Don’t miss the Millennium Falcon, X-wing, and TIE Echelon for iconic backgrounds.

  • Merchandise Strategy: Hot items (like the Death Star popcorn bucket) can sell out early in the day.

  • Weather: Late March to early May can be unpredictable-bring layers and sunscreen.

Star Wars Scavenger Hunt (Season of the Force Game)

The Star Wars Scavenger Hunt, officially called “Seek and Find,” is a free, interactive adventure offered during Season of the Force at Disneyland, and it’s a must-do for families, Star Wars fans, and anyone looking for a unique park activity. Here’s how it works and what makes it so much fun:

How to Play:

  • Start your mission by heading to The Star Trader shop in Tomorrowland, where you’ll pick up a special scavenger hunt map and a pencil. The map sets the stage for your quest, introducing you as a Resistance recruit tasked with decoding a secret message.

  • Next, make your way to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Here, your job is to search for six coded cylinders hidden throughout Black Spire Outpost. Each cylinder is inscribed with symbols from Aurebesh, the written language of Star Wars. The canisters are cleverly tucked away near iconic locations such as the Millennium Falcon, Oga’s Cantina, Kat Saka’s Kettle, Savi’s Workshop, Resistance Supply, and Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo. Some are easy to spot, while others require a keen eye and a bit of exploration, making the hunt engaging for both kids and adults.

Decoding the Secret Message:

  • As you find each cylinder, copy the symbols onto your map in the spaces provided. Once you’ve collected all six, head back to Tomorrowland, where decoder signs are posted. Use these signs to translate the Aurebesh symbols into English letters, revealing the secret mission word.

  • Write the decoded word on your quest map to complete your mission.

Claiming Your Reward:

  • Return to The Star Trader and present your completed map with the decoded word. You’ll receive a special keepsake: a collectible Season of the Force trading card featuring a Star Wars character. Each card has the Aurebesh alphabet on the back, and new character cards are released every two weeks during the event, encouraging repeat visits and trading among fans.

Why It’s Special:

  • The scavenger hunt is completely free-unlike other Disneyland scavenger hunts that require a purchase-making it a fantastic value for families and collectors.

  • The experience is designed to be both fun and educational, as guests learn to read Aurebesh and explore both Tomorrowland and Galaxy’s Edge.

  • With new collectible cards released throughout the event, there’s an extra incentive for Star Wars fans to return and complete the hunt multiple times.

This scavenger hunt is a creative way to immerse yourself in the Star Wars universe, test your observation and decoding skills, and take home a unique souvenir from your Disneyland adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned park-goer or a first-time visitor, joining the Resistance on this interactive quest is an unforgettable highlight of Season of the Force!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need a separate ticket for Season of the Force?
No, all Season of the Force activities are included with regular Disneyland Park admission. Only Star Wars Nite requires a separate ticket.

Where is Season of the Force held?
The event takes place in both Tomorrowland and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Park.

What’s new for 2025?
The “Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga” projection show, the debut of Luke Skywalker in Galaxy’s Edge, and the new “Reclaimed and Reforged” lightsaber theme at Savi’s Workshop.

Are there special food and drinks?
Yes! Exclusive Star Wars-themed snacks, meals, and drinks are available throughout the park.

Can I meet Star Wars characters?
Absolutely. Look for Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, Rey, The Mandalorian, and more in both lands.

How do I get the Death Star popcorn bucket?
Available at select popcorn carts-arrive early as they often sell out.

Is the event family-friendly?
Yes! There’s something for every age, from rides to food to interactive games and character encounters.

May the Force Be With You!

Season of the Force at Disneyland is a celebration that brings together the best of Disney magic and Star Wars adventure. With dazzling new shows, rare character appearances, themed food, exclusive collectibles, and immersive attractions, it’s a dream come true for fans and a unique experience for all visitors. Whether you’re building a lightsaber, savoring a blue milk, or watching fireworks over Batuu, you’ll create memories that are truly out of this world. Be sure to check out our friends over at Yeti Travel, they’ll help plan your next trip at the lowest prices available at no extra cost to you! Let someone else stress about your vacation!

So, pack your Jedi robes, charge your datapad, and prepare for a Disneyland visit that’s truly legendary. The Force is calling-will you answer?