Star Wars Nite at Disneyland [A Comprehensive Guide]

For a few special nights in the spring, Disneyland transforms into the ultimate Star Wars celebration, offering fans a chance to experience the park in an entirely new way. Star Wars Nite, part of the popular Disneyland After Dark series, combines exclusive entertainment, rare character encounters, and special offerings that bring the galaxy far, far away, to life right in the heart of Anaheim.

Event Details & Logistics: Everything You Need to Know About Star Wars Nite

Planning to attend Star Wars Nite at Disneyland? Here’s everything you need to know about tickets, timing, and the check-in process for this special after-hours event.

Ticket Pricing and Purchase Information

2025’s Star Wars Nite events will run on eight select nights between April 8 and May 6, 2025.

• April 2025: 8, 10, 22, 24, 29
• May 2025: 1, 4, 6

2025 Star Wars Nite ticket prices range from $169-189 per guest, with prices varying by date. Earlier event dates tend to be cheaper, while the highest price point is unsurprisingly on May the Fourth.

To purchase tickets, you can visit Disneyland’s official event website or call their reservation line. If you’ll also need hotel reservations, we suggest enlisting the free help of a Disney travel agent for a truly stress-free experience. Like most special events at Disneyland, these tickets tend to sell quickly, so early booking is recommended.

Event Hours and Early Entry Benefits

While the main event runs from 9 PM to 1 AM, one of the best perks of Star Wars Nite is early admission to Disneyland Park starting at 6 PM. This gives you three extra hours to explore the park before the exclusive festivities begin. The park closes to the general public at 8 PM, creating a smooth transition into the special event.

During your 6 PM early start, you can:

• Get a head start on rides and attractions
• Grab dinner before the event begins
• Scout out merchandise locations
• Take photos while the sun is still up

Check-in Process and Locations

There are two main ways to check in for Star Wars Nite:

1. Main Entrance Check-in: If you’re arriving for the 6 PM entry, head to the main entrance of Disneyland Park. Present your event ticket to receive your wristband, commemorative lanyard, and event guide.
2. In-Park Check-in: Are you already in the park with a regular ticket or Magic Key? You can check in at the designated event space behind Star Traders in Tomorrowland. However, keep in mind that while you can get your credentials earlier in the afternoon, event-exclusive merchandise won’t be available at this location until 6 PM.

What’s Included with Your Ticket

Your Star Wars Nite ticket includes:

• Four hours of exclusive event time (9 PM – 1 AM)
• Three hours of mix-in park time (6 PM – 9 PM)
• Commemorative lanyard
• Event guide with map and schedule
• Event wristband for access to exclusive activities
• Unlimited PhotoPass digital downloads from the event
• Access to exclusive merchandise, food, and entertainment

Magic Key Holder Information

Magic Key holders receive no additional discounts on event tickets, as this is a separately ticketed event. However, if you’re a Magic Key holder already in the park on event day, you can take advantage of the early check-in location behind Star Traders. This can save you time and allow you to get your event credentials without exiting and re-entering the park.

Important note: A Magic Key pass alone does not grant access to Star Wars Nite – a separate event ticket is required for all guests, including Magic Key holders.

Special Entertainment & Experiences: Exclusive Star Wars Magic After Dark

Star Wars Nite offers an array of exclusive entertainment that transforms Disneyland into an immersive galactic celebration. From rare character encounters to spectacular shows, these special experiences make the event truly unique.

Character Meet-and-Greets

During Star Wars Nite, Disneyland transforms into an immersive galactic celebration with character encounters you won’t find during regular park hours.

Offerings can vary, but in the past we’ve had chances to meet The Mandalorian and Grogu in Galaxy’s Edge, or cross paths with classic characters like Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia.

You might even spot Imperial forces led by Darth Vader and Darth Maul patrolling the grounds, creating unique photo opportunities you can’t get anywhere else. They may even try to get you to go to the dark side.

Shows and Performances

The entertainment lineup features several opportunities to use the Force…

• Lightsaber Instructional: View a masterclass demonstration and training session dedicated to that elegant weapon for a more civilized age.
• A Gathering of the Resistance with Rey: A show of force and unity at Galaxy’s Edge. Be sure to bring your Lightsaber!
• Fans of the Force Costume Cavalcade – A Star Wars Nite Costume (Cosplay) Showcase: Don your favorite Star Wars attire for this fantastic celebration. Just be sure to follow costume guidelines (outlined later in this article)
• And more…

Galactic Dance Party

Main Street, USA hosts a DJ spinning beats in the galactic DJ party zone. These dance celebrations often feature surprise character appearances and interactive moments with Storm Troopers and Resistance fighters, creating an energetic atmosphere that captures the spirit of Star Wars.

Photo Opportunities

Throughout the park, specially staged photo locations bring iconic movie scenes to life. Professional PhotoPass photographers capture your memories with special lighting effects and unique props, and all digital downloads are included with your event ticket. These themed backdrops provide perfect settings for capturing your Star Wars adventure.

Limited Capacity Benefits

With fewer guests in the park, you may enjoy shorter wait times for popular attractions like Rise of the Resistance and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. The reduced crowds mean better viewing spots for shows and more intimate character interactions throughout the evening.

Exclusive Merchandise: Your Guide to Star Wars Nite Collectibles

Star Wars Nite features unique, event-exclusive merchandise that you won’t find during regular park visits or at any other Disneyland After Dark event.

Here’s everything you need to know about scoring these limited-edition treasures.

Event-Exclusive Items

Each Star Wars Nite features specially designed collectibles commemorating the event. The merchandise lineup typically includes event-specific spirit jerseys, pins, and MagicBands featuring unique Star Wars designs.

Exclusive items often blend Disney park elements with Star Wars themes, making them particularly special for fans of both franchises.

Merchandise Locations

During the event, Star Wars Nite merchandise is available at multiple locations throughout the park. The Star Traders shop in Tomorrowland, and the Resistance Supply in Galaxy’s Edge serve as the main hubs for event merchandise. Additional items can usually be found at The Emporium on Main Street, USA, though selection may vary by location.

Popular Collectibles

Past events have featured highly sought-after items like limited-edition posters, event-specific trading pins, and themed ears. The commemorative Spirit Jersey has consistently been one of the most popular items, along with exclusive Loungefly mini backpacks and themed drinkware. Special plush toys, like character-specific nuiMOs in event-exclusive outfits, also tend to sell quickly.

Tips for Collectors

Getting your hands on limited-edition merchandise requires strategy. Consider checking in early at 6 PM and heading straight to your preferred merchandise location. Mobile checkout options are available at most locations to help speed up your shopping experience. Remember that some items may have purchase limits, and popular merchandise often sells out early in the evening.

Note: Availability of specific items is not guaranteed, and merchandise offerings may vary by event date.

Special Food & Beverages: Galactic Treats and Eats

During Star Wars Nite, Disneyland’s culinary team creates an array of themed treats and beverages that are only available during this special event. These exclusive offerings add an extra layer of immersion to your galactic experience.

Themed Treats

Specialty desserts and snacks feature creative Star Wars twists. Some prior offerings have included Grogu-inspired macarons, lightsaber churros, and Leia-inspired cinnamon roll sundaes. Many of these treats are designed specifically for photo opportunities, featuring special garnishes and themed decorations that make them as visually appealing as they are delicious.

Special Event Menu Items

Beyond desserts, quick-service locations across the park offer event-exclusive savory items. Galaxy’s Edge expands its already impressive menu with special offerings, while other locations feature themed dishes (such as the “Vader’s Loaded Fries” and “Millennium Falcon Flatbread” we’ve seen in prior years). These items are crafted to be both Instagram-worthy and satisfying during your late-night adventure.

Where to Find Event Food

Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo in Galaxy’s Edge serves as a primary hub for special event offerings. Additional locations may also get into the act, such as Galactic Grill in Tomorrowland, Red Rose Taverne in Fantasyland, and Alien Pizza Planet.

Mobile Ordering Tips

Most quick-service locations accept mobile orders through the Disneyland app during the event, helping you maximize your time. Popular items can sell out quickly, so consider placing your mobile order early in the evening for your preferred pickup time. Some specialty items may be mobile order exclusive, so check the app frequently for special releases throughout the night.

Attractions & Rides: Experience Your Favorite Rides After Dark

Disneyland’s attractions remain operational during Star Wars Nite, with significantly reduced wait times thanks to limited event capacity. While most rides are available, the Star Wars attractions are undoubtedly the main draw of the evening.

Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

Disney’s most ambitious attraction puts you in the middle of an epic battle between the Resistance and the First Order. During Star Wars Nite, wait times typically drop to 30-45 minutes, compared to the usual 90+ minutes during regular hours. The nighttime atmosphere adds an extra layer of immersion to this already spectacular experience.

Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

Take control of the fastest ship in the galaxy as you and your crew complete a dangerous mission for Hondo Ohnaka. Wait times during the event often drop to 15-20 minutes, making it possible to try different crew positions throughout the night. Pilots, gunners, and engineers are all crucial to the mission’s success.

Star Tours – The Adventures Continue

Located in Tomorrowland, this classic Star Wars attraction sends you on a thrilling 3D journey through the galaxy. While not in Galaxy’s Edge, it remains a must-do experience during Star Wars Nite, typically posting wait times of just 5-10 minutes. The randomized destinations make each ride unique.

Space Mountain

While not technically a Star Wars attraction, Space Mountain’s high-speed journey through space perfectly complements the event’s theme. During Star Wars Nite, wait times rarely exceed 20 minutes, making it an excellent addition to your galactic adventure.

Other Popular Attractions

Most of Disneyland’s classic attractions remain operational during the event, including Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Indiana Jones Adventure, and Pirates of the Caribbean. These typically post wait times of 5-15 minutes, allowing you to experience multiple attractions between Star Wars experiences. Do note that not all Disneyland rides are open during the event, and that some may only operate for the first part of the evening.

The Force Is Strong with This Event

Star Wars Nite delivers a rare blend of Disney magic and Star Wars excitement that can’t be matched during regular park hours – from the thrill of meeting rarely-seen characters to exploring Galaxy’s Edge under the stars with minimal crowds.

The premium ticket price buys an evening filled with exclusive entertainment, shorter attraction wait times, and unique merchandise opportunities that transform Disneyland into an intimate celebration of the Star Wars universe.

For both dedicated Star Wars fans and casual park-goers alike, this special event creates the kind of unforgettable galactic memories that make any journey across the galaxy worthwhile.

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