Star Wars Weekends 2012: A Galactic Leap at Hollywood Studios | Hyperspace Hoopla

Star Wars Weekends 2012 at Walt Disney World’s Hollywood Studios was bigger, bolder, and packed with more Force-filled fun than ever before. This year introduced exciting updates, including a new stage for fan-favorite shows, a redesigned merchandise experience, new food offerings, and interactive events that pushed this annual celebration into hyperspace.

A New Stage for Hyperspace Hoopla and Padawan Mind Challenge

In 2012, the popular Hyperspace Hoopla and Padawan Mind Challenge were moved to the new Event Stage in front of the Sorcerer Hat, giving fans a central place to gather. The Padawan Mind Challenge invited kids under 12 to test their Clone Wars trivia knowledge in hopes of becoming official Jedi Padawans.

Hyperspace Hoopla, known for its humorous dance battles between Star Wars heroes and villains, once again closed out each event day with energy and laughs—featuring updated music and routines that delighted the crowd.

Darth’s Mall: The Ultimate Star Wars Shopping Destination

This year introduced Darth’s Mall, a temporary merchandise experience located between Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and Tower of Terror (yes, that courtyard normally used as a cast member parking lot). Fans found everything from limited-edition pins and Vinylmation to exclusive family apparel, collectibles, and custom Star Wars artwork.

Carbon Freeze Me Experience

One of the most buzzed-about additions was the Carbon Freeze Me Experience, housed inside the ABC Sound Studio. Guests could get 3D scanned and have their likeness frozen in carbonite—a true must for any bounty hunter in training. (Yes, I had to try it!)

Celebrity Appearances and Autograph Tips

As always, celebrity guests were a huge draw. In 2012, fans got to meet:

• James Arnold Taylor (voice of Obi-Wan in The Clone Wars)
• Ashley Eckstein (voice of Ahsoka Tano)
• Daniel Logan (young Boba Fett)
• Jeremy Bulloch (original Boba Fett)
• Michonne Bourriague (Aurra Sing)
• Nika Futterman (voice of Asajj Ventress)

For autographs, FastPass distribution took place outside the main gate—arrive early, and don’t send just one person for the whole group; every participant must be present.

Premiere Theater Programming

Two standout hosts made the Premiere Theater a must-visit:

• Ashley Eckstein hosted Behind the Force, giving fans an exclusive peek into the making of The Clone Wars.
• James Arnold Taylor hosted Stars of the Saga, interviewing Star Wars alumni about their journeys in the galaxy far, far away. He also performed Obi-Wan and Beyond, a one-man show that celebrated his work voicing over 150 characters, including Fred Flintstone!

Themed Snacks & Collectibles

The themed food and novelty items were next level:

• 

  Darth Vader Cupcake – rich, dark chocolate decadence

• R2-D2 Snack Containers – filled with churros, frozen lemonade, or… in my case… Yuengling (not a Disney combo, but it worked for me!)
• R2-D2 Power Packs – kid-friendly snack bundles that doubled as collectibles

Character Encounters and the 501st Legion

From Jedi Mickey to Darth Vader, character meet-and-greets spanned the Star Wars universe. The 501st Legion—a fan-costuming organization—marched in the Celebrity Motorcade, showcasing screen-accurate gear and dedication to the Star Wars cause.

Star Tours: The Adventures Continue

And let’s not forget—Star Tours, updated in 2011, offered guests 3D journeys across the galaxy with randomized destinations, making every ride unique. It continues to be a year-round must-do.

Looking for more Star Wars check out The Story behind the Galactic Star Cruiser, The Last Hyperspace Hoopla, The Story Behind Galaxy’s Edge, Opening Day Galaxy’s Edge, Galaxy’s Edge Merchandise, Star Wars Weekend 2016, Obi-Wan and Beyond, Stars of the Saga, Stars of the Saga Clone Wars, Star Wars Rebels, Star Wars Weekend Feel the Force, Star Wars Weekend 2015 Galatic Breakfast, Star Wars Weekend 2013, HyperSpace Hoople 2012, 2012 Legends of the Force Parade,   Star Wars Weekend 2014