The End of an Era and a New Beginning
In November 2015, Disney officially announced the end of Star Wars Weekends, a fan-favorite event that had run annually since 2003 (with early editions in 1997, 2000, and 2001). Quoting the Disney Parks Blog now deleted post:
“Work begins next year on the 14-acre Star Wars-themed land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. With construction underway, unfortunately, we won’t be able to offer Star Wars Weekends. While Star Wars Weekends has been a great way to enjoy the saga for a few days every year, now the Force will be with Disney’s Hollywood Studios every day.”
So in 2016, fans were eager to see how Disney would fill the void. The result was a slate of daily Star Wars experiences, including new stage shows, meet-and-greets, themed desserts, and fireworks. All temporary of course, but great offerings.
Star Wars Everywhere—Every Day
As work began on Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Hollywood Studios launched temporary entertainment offerings to maintain the Force’s presence. While Star Tours and Jedi Training Academy remained constants, the following additions created a mini Star Wars festival that ran daily:
- Star Wars Launch Bay took over the former Animation Building with exhibits, props, and meet-and-greets.
- A Galaxy Far, Far Away became the new central stage show, featuring BB-8, Kylo Ren, Chewbacca, and Darth Vader.
- Captain Phasma’s First Order March added stormtrooper spectacle to the park’s daily routine.
- Symphony in the Stars fireworks lit up the night sky with John Williams’ epic score.
- A premium dessert party offered reserved fireworks viewing and themed treats.
A Galaxy Far, Far Away Stage Show
In the video I captured footage from April 2016, showcasing the A Galaxy Far, Far Away stage show and First Order March led by Captain Phasma. These experiences brought Star Wars to the park’s center stage and gave fans a new way to celebrate the franchise.
The show featured character appearances, iconic music, and up-close encounters with favorites like Kylo Ren and BB-8. The visual storytelling, paired with real props and costumed performers, made it a fan-favorite and ideal photo opportunity.
A Temporary Fireworks Farewell
“Symphony in the Stars” offered nightly fireworks synced to Star Wars music, but it was always intended as a placeholder. This nighttime show would later evolve into Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular, featuring projection mapping, lasers, and pyrotechnics.
The dessert party provided a comfortable, crowd-free view of the fireworks and became an essential part of the 2016 Star Wars experience at Hollywood Studios.
Star Wars Weekend 2016 Was Just the Beginning
While longtime fans mourned the loss of celebrity motorcades, James Arnold Taylor, the 501st Legion, and Stars of the Saga talk shows, With no Star Wars weekend, this is a crucial transition. Disney was investing in immersive Star Wars experiences that would eventually culminate in Galaxy’s Edge.
Until then, these daily offerings kept the galaxy close—and the Force strong.
Star Wars Weekend 2012!!! So Big it needs Two Video Episodes!!!
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. Galatic Breakfast. Star Wars Weekend 2013. HyperSpace Hoople 2012. 2012 Legends of the Force Parade. Star Wars Weekend 2014.
[…] Star Wars fans, prepare to add a new collectible to your shelves! Arriving just in time for the 5th anniversary of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, we are excited to reveal an exclusive first look at the new ‘Hilt of a Jedi’ collectible box set. Featuring the new Legacy LIGHTSABER hilt collectible inspired by Ki-Adi-Mundi, the set arrives tomorrow at DisneyStore.com and at Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort. […]