'Star Wars' announces global year-long celebration for its 50th anniversary
From major movie releases to immersive fan experiences, here's how 'Star Wars' plans to celebrate 50 years
LOS ANGELES -- A galaxy far, far away is getting ready for a big celebration. In 2027, "Star Wars" marks 50 years since the original film first hit theaters in 1977.
With just 50 days to go before the milestone anniversary, Lucasfilm and Disney have unveiled a year-long lineup of celebrations, giving fans plenty of ways to revisit the galaxy and experience something new.
Here's what to look forward to:
Jan. 20: "Ahsoka" returns
The festivities kick off with the season two premiere of "Ahsoka" on Disney+. Rosario Dawson reprises her role as the beloved Jedi, teaming up with Mandalorian companion and Padawan Sabine Wren to face the Imperial threat of Grand Admiral Thrawn.
Feb. 19: Original "Star Wars" returns to theaters
Fans can experience the film that started it all on the big screen once again. Lucasfilm will release a restored version of the original "Star Wars" in theaters, including select IMAX 70mm locations.
February: Get immersed in the galaxy
Fans can also step inside their favorite "Star Wars" stories with "Star Wars: The Experience," an interactive exhibition opening at Philadelphia's Franklin Institute in February. Tickets are on sale now.
March 2027: Step into "A New Hope"
The galaxy gets even closer with Cosm's Shared Reality experience, bringing "Star Wars: A New Hope" to its immersive entertainment venues in Atlanta, Dallas, Detroit and Los Angeles.
This venue will featuring massive 12K-plus LED domes, themed environments and custom food and beverage offerings.
April 1-4: "Star Wars Celebration"
The sold-out event will be the ultimate "Star Wars" fan experience, bringing the galaxy far, far away to the Los Angeles Convention Center, loaded with panels, hundreds of exhibitors, exclusive merchandise and legendary guests.
April 2-3: "Star Wars" takes over the Hollywood Bowl
The music of "Star Wars" takes center stage with "Star Wars in Concert: The Skywalker Saga."
Presented by Lucasfilm, Disney Concerts, AMP Worldwide and Live Nation Hewitt Silva, the two-night event returns the franchise to the Hollywood Bowl, home of the first official "Star Wars" concert in November 1977.
Hosted by Anthony Daniels, best known as C-3PO, the performances will feature John Williams' iconic scores alongside scenes from all nine Skywalker Saga films.
May 4: A behind-the-scenes look at "Star Wars"
May the Fourth brings another treat for fans. Lucasfilm will debut "The Hero Awakens," a new documentary from acclaimed filmmaker R.J. Cutler, on Disney+.
The film offers a rare glimpse into the making of the original "Star Wars," featuring exclusive archival footage and audio captured during and around production in 1977.
May 28: "Star Wars: Starfighter" hits theaters
The celebration continues on the big screen with "Star Wars: Starfighter," directed by Shawn Levy and starring Ryan Gosling.
Set in an entirely new era of "Star Wars" storytelling, the film introduces fresh characters and locations. The adventure follows a cynical rogue confronted by his mysterious past, sending him on a dangerous journey across the galaxy and toward an unexpected destiny.
The film will open worldwide in multiple formats, including IMAX 70mm at select locations.
All year: New collaborations and collectibles
Fans can expect a yearlong lineup of collaborations spanning collectibles, toys, apparel, automotive, food and beverage, electronics and more.
Participating brands include Hasbro, the LEGO Group, Adidas, Aston Martin, Steinway and Hajime Sorayama, presented by Complex, with both new and legacy collections planned.
The Walt Disney Company is the parent company of Lucasfilm and this ABC station.
