May the 4th Be With You! Today is Star Wars Day, and we’ve got a lot of Star Wars news to share! From the expanded Galaxy’s Edge timeline we’ve all been waiting for (complete with new characters and new music) to all-new novelties and merch from a galaxy far, far away… there’s a lot to […]
The post DISNEYLAND UPDATE: Galaxy’s Edge Awakens—Vader, Music & A New Hope appeared first on MiceChat.
Some BIG changes just happened in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland.
Leia and Han Solo
Disney has decided to scrap the one basic timeline that was originally set up for the planet of Batuu, which placed events in the land between Star Wars: The Last Jedi and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. Now, granted, characters NOT in that timeline have already been appearing in the land, like Ahsoka, the Mandalorian and Grogu, and more. But now original trilogy characters like Darth Vader, Luke, Leia, and Han Solo are appearing in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. So now we have to ask…what do Disney fans think about it?
So is this new timeline weird for Star Wars fans? Does it make the land feel different, odd, or off? Well, according to our reporters, it isn’t weird at all. In fact, it seems like almost everyone who’s experienced the changes is pretty much behind it, and some even commented about the original trilogy music now being played in the land (which is also a first for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge). It feels like new life has been brought back to the area.
Darth Vader in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
It also makes the land a little more accessible for more casual Star Wars fans or those folks who don’t see themselves as fans, but still know these characters. The truth is, when Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge first opened, many people complained that the area didn’t include some of the most famous characters in the history of the franchise. So there are a lot of Disney fans who feel like this is how Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge should have been all along.
Leia and Chewbacca
We’ve also looked at some of the comments of DFB readers, who also seem to think this is a good thing for the land. Disney GlennB even said on Facebook, “WDW fans are jealous.” We have seen comments from those who would like to see these changes make their way to Florida.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disney World
Over on Instagram, @symbolofthes said, “This makes me so happy and want to cry.” Several of Instagram commenters wanted the changes brought over to Disney World, and we’ll be curious to see if that happens or not. This could end up just being one of those things that makes the two lands different on each coast.
These characters are popular!
Okay, so here’s the BIG question I know you ALL want to ask. What do I think? It’s no secret that I’m a huge Star Wars fan, and I hate to admit that my opinion doesn’t align with almost everyone else’s. I like the idea of keeping the timeline intact in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge because it allows for more immersion in a story, whereas now it feels like Batuu is just another land based around something more random. I might have appreciated these changes more if the entire timeline of Batuu itself had been changed, but then both rides in the land would be out of sync with the timeline since they take place during the sequels.
Rise of the Resistance
For me, it doesn’t make sense to have Imperial Troopers and First Order Troopers at the same time, and if I think about it too hard, it makes my head hurt. I’m also worried the new music takes something away from those native Batuu sounds you used to hear when you visited the land. But I’m not sure what Disney could have done here to keep fans happy either way, and I’m sure the changes will grow on me when I next visit Disneyland. Maybe I’m completely wrong. Maybe seeing Luke and Leia there will soften my hardened heart.
We’ll keep an eye out for more Disney and Star Wars news, so stay tuned to DFB for more.
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What do you think about the timeline changes? Let us know in the comments!
Some BIG changes just came to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland…and we’re surprised by just how popular these changes seem to be.
Luke Skywalker in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
We’re talking about the melding of timelines in Batuu that now sees some characters (and music) from the Star Wars original trilogy hanging out and meeting with visitors. Yep, you can now see Darth Vader, Imperial Stormtroopers, Luke Skywalker, Leia Organa, and Han Solo in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. But if you’ll be visiting this land soon, we’ve got to warn you about one thing: crowds.
Yes, the new characters are a very popular addition to Disneyland, and due to that, you’re going to run into some crowds there, like we did. Once we got to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, there were a ton of people hanging around the base of the Millennium Falcon, just hoping to get a glimpse of Luke, Leia, and Han.
Waiting
There were parts of Batuu, though, that still felt pretty normal. Most of the crowds were focused on meeting the new characters in the land.
It wasn’t all bad
Most of the other parts of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge felt pretty busy, though. There were a lot of people visiting the land on a not-so-random Wednesday.
Yes, it’s busy
Let’s just say these characters seem to be a HUGE draw for Disneyland right now. Hey, Chewie!
These characters are popular!
Needless to say, you’ll probably be seeing crowds in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge for a while, at least until the “newness” of these characters wears off. So you’ll want to plan for that if you want to visit. To see when characters will be out, make sure you have the Disneyland app…you can check the appearance times for each character in the app. Now, it’s my experience that sometimes those times are more like “suggestions” than rules, but if you wait around, you’ll get to see the characters eventually.
We’ll keep an eye out for more Disneyland news, so stay tuned to DFB for more.
Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise.
Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!)
So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you
What do you think about these characters in Disneyland? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Disneyland just got a massive upgrade! In case you missed it, the West Coast Galaxy’s Edge is shaking up its timeline to include characters and music from the original trilogy!
It’s Darth Vader!
This comes with a lot of fun changes, but we’re most excited for the characters. We met so many never-before-seen characters from A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, Return of the Jedi, and the rest of the Star Wars universe today!
When we walked into the land, we immediately ran into Luke Skywalker and R2D2! They were strolling outside the marketplace, and they were very popular. Expect a wait if you want to talk to them!
Luke and R2D2
Then we headed to the Millennium Falcon. This is where to meet Luke, Leia, Han, and Chewbacca. While we were able to meet Chewie and Leia, Han didn’t make his first appearance until 1:30 PM today.
Leia and Chewbacca!
We went to the back of the land at the former First Order stronghold. This area now takes us back to the Galactic Empire, and we were able to meet the man himself, Darth Vader! He does a similar show to Kylo Ren, where he’ll march out, but the crowd was so much more enthusiastic!
Scary!
We circled back to the Millennium Falcon to find Han and Chewie fixing the ship! At least it looks better than it did yesterday…
Han!
There’s also a brand new soundtrack in the land using John Williams’ brilliant score! Here’s a clip so you can hear it:
Volume up
to hear the new background music in Disneyland Galaxy’s Edge!
pic.twitter.com/TyY9XxVGTj
— Disney Food Blog (@DisneyFoodBlog) April 29, 2026
We had so much fun meeting all of these new permanent characters in Galaxy’s Edge. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Disney news!
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
What character are you most excited to meet? Comment below!
Disneyland is changing its Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge land this month by turning back the clock and introducing characters from the original trilogy, notably Luke Skywalker, Leia Organa, and Han Solo.
©Star Wars
The Star Wars social media accounts have been slowly releasing their never-before-seen Disneyland looks, and when we reposted them, not all fans were satisfied with their new looks.
One of the fans’ first criticisms of Han Solo was his hair. @barberfrankfroese commented on our Instagram, “Why they give him a Prince Charming wig?” @devusername posted “Awesome! But why did you post a video of Flynn Rider to announce it?” James commented, “Flynn Rider cosplaying as Han is a choice.”
©Star Wars
Most people are unanimously agreeing that this wig is giving That 70’s Show, with one comment mentioning Michael Kelso, and another bringing up Fez. Franklin on Facebook commented, “His hair screams fifth member of the Beatles.” While we love Han’s Farrah Fawcett volume, this wig is… something… compared to the original films.
©Disney
Disneyland’s Han Solo is wearing his Empire Strikes Back look, but his vest looks much bluer than in the film. Scott on Facebook commented, “Is he working for Walmart in that blue vest?” while Sara replied, “Blue vest?! Looks like a department store employee.”
©Star Wars
Lots of commenters mentioned Temu, an ultra-affordable dupe store often used in memes to reference cheap quality. Tom on Facebook called him “Temu Solo, captain of the Monthly Sparrow,” while Rich asked, “Is that the Temu version of this pair?” in reference to Han and Chewie together.
©Star Wars
Now that Disneyland has released the full lineup’s outfits, fans are up in arms about the whole cast. When we posted Leia’s new look to our Instagram, @toy_therapy commented, “I’ve seen better cosplayers.” @clocloagogo said that “They told Snow White to put this wig on.” Meanwhile, @tori_rfarmer asked, “Why does this Leia look so cringey?? She’s giving Debby Ryan from Radio Rebel.”
©Disney
If you’d like to meet the characters yourself at Disneyland, the newly revamped area will open on April 29th. In addition to Han and Leia having meet-and-greets, you can also say hello to Luke Skywalker, R2-D2, and Chewbacca in front of the Millennium Falcon. Ahsoka and The Mandalorian with Grogu can be found in the Black Spire Market in the land.
©Disney
We’ll be at Disneyland on the opening day to see these new characters in action. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Disney news!
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
What do you think of their Disneyland looks? Comment below!
Some HUGE changes are coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland, and it’s going to change your entire experience in that part of the park.
Millennium Falcon
The timeline for Batuu is shifting to include ALL timelines in the Star Wars universe, including the timeline in the original trilogy of movies. That means you’ll soon be able to see characters like Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Darth Vader in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Princess Leia will also be coming to the land, too, and now we have a first look at her!
Disneyland just dropped a first look at Princess Leia as she’ll be appearing in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Now, her outfit might seem unfamiliar, but Disney decided to change things up and give her an outfit based on what she wore in the 2015 comic book series Star Wars Battlefront. And, honestly, we think this outfit is perfect for wandering around dusty Batuu.
©Disney
You’ll be able to spot Princess Leia near the Millennium Falcon, where she’ll be recruiting Rebels to help with the Rebellion and to keep Luke Skywalker safe. Here’s a full look at Leia in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge:
We previously got a first look at Han Solo, who will also be hanging around the Millennium Falcon. Other characters include Luke Skywalker, who will be roaming Batuu, Chewbacca, and Darth Vader, who will be walking around the outpost with Stormtroopers to hunt down any remaining Jedi.
Chewbacca in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
These changes will be coming to Disneyland’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge on April 29th, so if you’re interested in seeing these characters, mark your calendars! Also, remember that the Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run ride will also be changing on May 22nd with a new mission and new scenes, plus a new role for the Engineer! This change will be coming to both Disneyland and Disney World.
©Disney
We’ll keep an eye out for these characters once they appear and keep you updated, so stay tuned to DFB for more.
Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise.
Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you -- they've literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They're DFB's recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!)
So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you
What do you think of these new additions to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge? Sound off in the comments!
You’re not going to believe what NEW meet-and-greet just appeared at Disneyland Resort!
WALL-E and Eve!
After not seeing WALL-E since Earth Day a year ago, he has finally come back to Disneyland Resort. We started freaking out when we saw him once again, but this time it was even more exciting! This year, he brought Eve with him!
The agents at Small World Vacations know how to save money on your Disney Vacation! When you book your trip with Small World Vacations, their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings. They also compare discounts and figure out which one works best for your travel party, dates, resort, and touring plans. And they share expert tips and first-hand advice with you about your magical vacation.
WALL-E and Eve have popped up at the Pixar Place Hotel in celebration of Earth Month, and we couldn’t be more thrilled! Of course, we had to stop by and say hi to the loveable robots, and not to be dramatic, but we seriously can’t get over our interaction with them — they’re just so dang cute!
Look at them!
You’ll find WALL-E and Eve in the lobby of the Pixar Place Hotel on Wednesdays throughout April. Guests will have the rare opportunity to celebrate Earth Month with the iconic pair.
They are so cute together!
Expect there to be a bit of a crowd when you stop by to see them; these two tend to draw quite a bit of attention. Unfortunately, you will have to come in April to catch the two robots, or you most likely will miss them.
Hi WALL-E
Earth Month at Disneyland usually brings new treats and merchandise to the resort as well. We haven’t heard or seen much about that yet, but it is just the beginning of the month. We’ll be keeping an eye out for any announcements so that we can update you!
Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland
Character meet-and-greets always make us smile. We’ll make sure to keep an eye out for any more rare ones for you to check out, on top of any Earth Month news from Disneyland and Disney World. Make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog so you make sure you don’t miss anything!
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Will you have a chance to see WALL-E and Eve? Let us know in the comments!
Bluey has arrived at Disneyland with a new stage show that’s already drawing big crowds at the Fantasyland Theatre. But does “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” live up to the hype—and is it worth carving out time in an already packed park day? We checked it out during a preview and have everything you need to […]
The post Bluey’s Big Disneyland Debut Draws Crowds… Tips & Review appeared first on MiceChat.
Disneyland Resort is absolutely enchanting during the holiday season. The entire resort is adorned in twinkling lights and countless ornaments. Plus, characters at both theme parks and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort don their festive finest for this joyous time of year.
If you’re excited to take holiday photos with characters or spot them in a seasonal show, here are some highlights to check out while visiting Holidays at the Disneyland Resort and Disney Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure park.
The fun begins November 14, 2025, and continues through January 7, 2026!
Direct from the North Pole, Santa Claus himself makes stops around Disneyland Resort for photo opportunities and to hear families’ holiday wishes. Say ho-ho-hello to St. Nick through December 24, 2025.
Redwood Creek Challenge Trail at California Adventure transforms into a jolly playground with games, festive activities, and a fun search for brightly colored presents along the trail.
From November 27 through December 24, Santa adds the Disneyland Hotel, Pixar Place Hotel and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa to his route around the resort.
At California Adventure, some characters sport Santa hats, dress up in classic holiday outfits, or add festive accessories. These photo ops and sightings are unique to Holidays at the Disneyland Resort.
On Buena Vista Street, you may find classic Disney characters dressed in retro-inspired wintry wear. Their outfits complement the nostalgic décor on the park’s 50-foot-tall Christmas tree.
In Cars Land, Mater gets into the spirit by sporting a giant Santa hat. You “auto” stop by to see for yourself!
After making his Disneyland Resort debut last year, Deadpool is back for more holiday hilarity and super special seasonal stories. You can see him during “The Story Time with Deadpool Holiday Special” near Avengers Campus.
This limited-time entertainment offering celebrates the season in the way only Deadpool can. At select performances, Wolverine may also stop by.
Culinary creations, cultural entertainment and, of course, many Disney characters can be found throughout California Adventure during the vibrant Disney Festival of Holidays, November 14, 2025, through January 7, 2026.
Groove along to magically merry rhythms of the Holiday Toy Drummers as they travel along the streets of California Adventure. You’ll also spot Disney friends and Pixar pals during this daily, high-energy holiday procession.
The greatest holiday gifts are the memories created with people we love. On select days, Mirabel and her friends gather at Paradise Gardens Park for their own Fiesta de Navidad celebration.
During this whimsical returning street performance, sing along to “Surface Pressure,” “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” and other catchy tunes from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Encanto.
Also on select days, you may encounter Miguel from Pixar Animation Studios’ Coco at Carthay Circle as he joins Mariachi Alegría de Disneyland for heartfelt stories and holiday songs.
“A Musical Christmas with Mariachi Alegría de Disneyland & Miguel!” is an evening street performance with beautiful, bilingual renditions of holiday songs.
The daily cultural celebration at Paradise Gardens Park features live music, specialty dishes, and character appearances inspired by Latin American traditions – with a touch of Disney flair.
Meet Mirabel at the Paradise Gardens gazebo. On select days, other members of the Madrigal family may make appearances as well.
Sing, samba and shout “ay caramba!” On Saturdays and Sundays, The Three Caballeros – Jose Carioca, Panchito, and Donald Duck – are joined by folklorico dancers, mariachis, Brazilian samba dancers, and more during the “Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party.”
Disney characters are dressed for the occasion at Disneyland park! When making stops at Main Street, U.S.A., Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and their pals are wearing newly designed, festive outfits that put a “holiday spin” on their looks from the 70th Celebration.
In New Orleans Square, Santa Jack and Sally are sharing season’s screamings at the Royal Courtyard through December 24.
A treasured tradition, “A Christmas Fantasy Parade” celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2025. It features many Disney characters and a procession of prancing reindeer, marching toy soldiers, and dancing gingerbread cookies.
This returning experience at the Fantasyland Theatre in Disneyland features festivities throughout each day through December 24. In addition to greeting Disney characters, you can watch animated shorts, sing along to holiday songs, and more.
Dance along to holiday tunes and upbeat jams, while Disney characters appear on stage, during a holiday dance party for the whole family at Tomorrowland Terrace.
The dance party begins at 5:30 p.m. and continues through 9:30 p.m., daily during the holiday season. Drop by at different times throughout the party. Who knows which characters you’ll encounter and songs you’ll hear?
Select character locations and schedules are listed on the Disneyland app.* On the day of your visit, the app can be a helpful tool to find characters or check when a show is scheduled to perform.
For a limited time, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and Disneyland Hotel are hosting holiday buffets, with a selection of scrumptious, seasonal menu items. Disney characters make appearances throughout the meal, showing off festive outfits.
These experiences are an amazing value for all the delicious food you care to enjoy and the opportunity to meet multiple characters at one location. Advanced reservations are highly recommended.
At Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa from November 17, 2025, through January 6, 2026, Daisy’s Holiday Pajama Party breakfast and brunch features Disney friends in festive colors and plaid fabrics. You’re welcome to dine in your coziest fashion, including your pajamas.
For a memorable yuletide dinner, Storytellers Cafe presents Mickey’s Christmas Carol Feast from November 17, 2025, through January 6, 2026. Mickey Mouse, Scrooge McDuck, and more characters come together in looks inspired by the classic Christmas story.
Over at the Disneyland Hotel, Goofy’s Kitchen joins the seasonal festivities with a holiday breakfast, brunch, and dinner, November 17, 2025 through January 6, 2026. Goofy and his pals put on their merry best, mixing classic red and green colors with pastels, print, and snowy sparkles.
New this year, you may encounter Douglas Fir, a talking Christmas tree, roaming around Downtown Disney District daily throughout the holiday season.
Finding holiday characters is just some of the wintery wonderment that awaits during Holidays at the Disneyland Resort. Check out our guide to the décor, merchandise, nighttime spectaculars, and more to put on your itinerary.
For the foodies hungry for seasonal eats and peppermint treats, stay tuned! Disney Eats will release the full list of limited-time menu items for Holidays at the Disneyland Resort and Disney Festival of Holidays closer to opening day.
To enter a park, both a theme park reservation and a valid ticket for the same park on the same date is required. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability, and not guaranteed. Parks, attractions, entertainment, experiences, services, and offerings may be modified, limited in availability or unavailable, and are subject to restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed. Visit Disneyland.com/updates for more information about visiting the Disneyland® Resort.
*Message, data and roaming rates may apply for the use of the Disneyland app. Availability subject to handset limitations and features may vary by handset or service provider. Coverage and app stores not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first.
The post 2025 Holiday Characters to Spot at Disneyland appeared first on Disney Parks Blog.
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