Disneyland to Add 14-Acre “Star Wars” Land

The plans represent the largest expansions in the company’s history for a single-themed area, and in Anaheim they will require a major reconfiguration of the park, opened in 1955 by company co-founder Walt Disney.

Frolicking in the “Star Wars” universe is the dream of millions, and it will soon become a reality, as announced by Disney CEO Bob Iger at the D23 Fan Expo on Saturday, the Associated Press reported.

The new land will also include a cantina (like the one in the first film), and all servers at restaurants and stores in the Star Wars-themed land will be in character as aliens. Our own Kyle Buchanan reports from D23 that, “One ride at Star Wars land will let you “take the controls” of the Millennium Falcon, the other is set during Force Awakens’ climax”.

And if even that’s too long to wait, later this brings a Star Tours upgrade, which will incorporate new locations and adventures from Star Wars: The Force Awakens, plus a Star Wars Launch Bay interactive experience.

In addition, Disney will be updating its Star Tours rides in Anaheim and Orlando with new destinations and characters from the upcoming Star Wars films.

“It goes into new territory, exploring the galactic struggle from a ground-war perspective while maintaining that essential Star Wars feel that fans have come to know” Lucasfilm’s Kathleen Kennedy explained. We’ll also bear witness to the conflict between the notorious First Order and the rebel fighters of the Resistance.

Citing the popularity of Cars Land at Anaheim’s California Adventure – and no doubt with a nod to the upcoming Toy Story 4 (didn’t we mention studio synergy?) – Disney is developing Toy Story Land for Hollywood Studios in Florida.

The Marvel presence will also be increasing at Disney parks. This new 11-acre land will transport guests into the adventurous outdoors of Andy’s backyard. In early 2016, visitors to Disney’s Hollywood Studios or Disneyland will experience a Star Wars themed event. The Disneyland construction will begin in late 2017, and the attraction will occupy the current Big Thunder Ranch and some backstage areas of the park. This announcement marks an unprecedented time of growth with exciting developments happening around the world – from Disneyland Resort’s Diamond Celebration to the anticipated opening of Shanghai Disney Resort in China.