🌌✨ The Force Awakens After Dark: Star Wars Nite Returns to Disneyland in 2026

This is not just a party… it’s a galactic takeover of Disneyland Park.

Calling all Jedi, Sith, smugglers, and Star Wars super-fans—Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite is officially returning for four exclusive nights in 2026, and this one sells out faster than the Kessel Run. 🚀

On April 28, April 30, May 4, and May 6, 2026, Disneyland Park transforms into a fully immersive Star Wars celebration—complete with rare characters, exclusive entertainment, themed food, and dramatically shorter ride waits.

This is Disneyland… for the fans.

📅 Event Dates, Times & Ticket Basics

2026 Star Wars Nite Dates:

• Tuesday, April 28

• Thursday, April 30

• Monday, May 4 (yes… that day 😉)

• Wednesday, May 6

Event Hours:

🌙 Party runs 9:00 PM – 1:00 AM

⏰ Early entry begins at 6:00 PM for ticketed guests

🚫 No regular park reservation required that day for party guests

Tickets:

• Separate ticket required for guests ages 3+

• 2026 pricing TBD (2025 ranged approx. $169–$189 + tax)

• May the 4th is historically the most expensive and fastest to sell out

Sales typically follow this order:

1. Inspire Magic Key pre-sale (January 27, 2026)

2. All Magic Key holders (January 27th, 2026)

3. General public (January 28th, 2026)

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🎟️ What Your Star Wars Nite Ticket Includes

This is where the value shines.

🌠 Park Access & Attractions

• Early mix-in from 6–9 PM

• Exclusive after-hours access until 1 AM

• Significantly shorter waits for:

  • Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance

  • Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

  • Star Tours

  • Plus other open attractions

🎆 Entertainment & Extras

• Star Wars–themed fireworks spectacular (weather permitting)

• Unlimited Disney PhotoPass digital downloads from the event

• Event credential + themed guide map

• Exclusive nighttime ambiance, music, and in-park announcements rethemed for Star Wars

👽 Characters, Shows & Galactic Atmosphere

This is one of the best events for rare characters—hands down.

🌌 Character Greetings

Expect rotating appearances from fan favorites and deep-cut legends. Recent lineups have included:

• Darth Vader

• Anakin Skywalker

• Queen Amidala

• Sabine Wren

• Jawas and more

✨ Stormtroopers and Captain Phasma–style patrols often roam Tomorrowland and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

💃 Special Activities

• Galactic Dance Party near Main Street, U.S.A.

• Lightsaber instruction or demos near it’s a small world mall

• “Show of Unity” lightsaber moment near the Millennium Falcon

• Projection effects, themed music loops, and immersive lighting throughout the park

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👗 Costumes, Food & Exclusive Merch

🧥 Costumes

Star Wars Nite is one of the only times adults can wear costumes at Disneyland:

• Star Wars–themed costumes allowed for all ages

• No full-face masks for adults

• Armor pieces and props must meet size and safety guidelines

There’s often a costume cavalcade or showcase down Main Street, U.S.A.—a highlight for cosplayers.

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🍪 Food & Drinks

Limited-time Star Wars treats pop up across the park, including:

• Galactic Grill

• Milk Stand

• Select carts

Expect:

• Creative blue & green milk variations

• Specialty desserts

• Savory items themed to planets and factions

🛍️ Merchandise

• Event-exclusive Star Wars Nite pins, apparel, and lanyards

• Expanded Star Wars merch in Tomorrowland and Galaxy’s Edge

🧠 Pro Strategy Tips for 2026

A little planning = a lot more Force.

Buying tickets:

• If May 4 matters to you, let's be ready the moment tickets drop - reach out to me NOW so that I have everything I need from you so that I can snag them for you as soon as they drop!

Night-of game plan:

• Use 6–9 PM mix-in for rides and dinner

• After 9 PM, focus on characters, fireworks, and photos

• Prioritize your top two rare characters early (lines can hit 45–60 minutes)

• Fireworks usually run once—grab a spot 20–30 minutes ahead

✨ Why You Want a Star Wars Nite Plan (and Not Just Tickets)

As a Certified Disney Destinations Specialist, I help clients turn high-demand events into smooth, unforgettable experiences.

I help you:

• Choose the best night based on crowds and priorities

• Build a Star Wars Nite battle plan for rides, characters, and fireworks

• Coordinate tickets with hotels and park days

• Avoid common mistakes that waste precious event time

Anyone can attend Star Wars Nite.

I help you conquer it. ⚔️

🌠 Ready to Join the Rebellion (or the Dark Side)?

If Star Wars is your love language, this is one of the most immersive, joy-filled nights Disneyland offers.

Tell me your preferred date, who you’re traveling with, and whether you’re team characters, rides, or photos—and I’ll map out a Star Wars Nite strategy worthy of a Jedi Master.

Because the Force is strong…✨ but planning makes it unstoppable.