Is That an Ewok on Space Mountain? Star Wars Land Joins Disney!

Claudia Walrad

Staff Writer

The Most Magical Place on Earth may soon be upgrading its title to all of the galaxy – and those far,far away. According to intergalactic buzz, there are plans for a Star Wars Land to open at Walt Disney World in Florida. This much anticipated addition is supposedly set for 2018 and planned for the resort’s Hollywood Studios park.

Originally known as MGM Studios when it opened on May 1, 1989, Disney’s Hollywood Studios is one of four theme parks at the world renowned Florida resort, the others being EPCOT, the Animal Kingdom, and of course the Magic Kingdom. Welcoming several million tourists from around the world every year, Disney would be the perfect home to an attraction featuring such legendary and beloved characters as Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, and Yoda. This expansion is planned to take place in 2018, as part of a launch that will include new Cars Land, a sure fire hit for fans of the Pixar animated feature.

Although Disney has not yet officially denied or confirmed this rumor, the evolution of the park’s expansion with Star Wars Land would make complete sense from a marketing standpoint. This exciting prospective announcement is on the heels of the anticipation of Star Wars VII, expected for a 2015 release. Between 2015 and 2019, three films and two spin-offs are set for development and production. A Disney theme park tie-in would be the perfect place for fans, new and old, of the George Lucas saga, to schedule family trips and purchase much-loved memorabilia. I have a distinct feeling that family members who enjoyed the 1977 original would gladly accompany younger children to an attraction that introduces them to this world in a galaxy far, far away.