The Force Awakens at Disney World’s Star Wars Launch Bay

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you must be aware that there is a NEW STAR WARS MOVIE COMING VERY VERY SOON. My two tween boys and my husband have been counting the days, we’ve had our tickets booked for weeks, and the trailer has been viewed approximately one million times since its release.

Suffice it to say, we have Star Wars fans in this house.

You can imagine the level of excitement when we heard that the Star Wars Launch Bay was opening at Disney World’s Hollywood Studios on December 1^st. We were heading to Disney World – our first ever trip – and we would be there on December 4^th. The stars were aligned.

Cue the pretend light saber battles and the humming of the Imperial March all the time. Everywhere. All. Day. Long.

Star Wars Launch Bay has something for everyone, and it is suitable for all ages. It’s impossible not to get caught up in the hype; from the gift shop employee who had a twenty-minute discussion with my youngest about his favourite characters and movies, to the hordes of smiling, happy people dressed in Star Wars gear, the entire experience was fun and special. Let the force awaken at Disney World’s Star Wars Launch Bay.

The Force Awakens at Star Wars Launch Bay at      Disney World

Star Wars: Path of the Jedi

With all the walking involved at Disney World, it’s nice to take a load off in a comfortable theatre, to watch a short film called Path of the Jedi. The film is essentially made up of clips from the old movies, with scenes from The Force Awakens. Talk about reliving the adventure! By the end of it, the crowd was cheering with excitement – including myself!

Jedi Training

My kids deemed themselves “too old” to participate in this, but younger children will love the opportunity to become a “youngling” and train with a Jedi. This interactive show included villains from the old movies – we saw Darth Maul – but apparently also features villains from Star Wars Rebels.

Star Tours

This 3D ride has been around for a while; I remember it from a Disneyland trip in 1987, however, it’s been adapted to include characters from all the movies, even the new one. There are many permutations, so each experience is different. We rode on it five times, and each one was different. Cute BB-8 from The Force Awakens was a fun treat to see.

Launch Bay

This was the ultimate experience for any fan. There are two sections: one for the Dark Side and one for the Rebels, so choose wisely. Artwork and props are scattered throughout, and there’s a Preview Gallery filled with artwork and models from the new movie.
 

Anyone who considers themselves a shopper will love the gift shop with its unique items from all the movies. I came close to bringing home an authentic replica of Han Solo’s outfit for my husband to wear for (my pleasure) Halloween, but at $750, it was a little high for (role playing) Trick or Treating.

The most exciting thing of all is that you also have an opportunity to meet celebrities – small droids and Jawas wander around the Launch Bay, but if you’re willing to wait, you can meet the BIG stars: Darth Vader and Chewbacca.

He loves me!

If you’re a Star Wars fan you will absolutely love Star Wars Launch Bay. If you’re not, you might just find yourself becoming one by the time you leave.