Lucasfilm and Disney announced the milestone event, which includes a wide range of theatrical, streaming, and merchandise releases.
Starting January 1, 2027, the global celebration will honor five decades of storytelling through new project announcements, archival releases, and reimagined Disney Parks and Cruise Line offerings.
“It is incredibly special to mark the 50th anniversary by returning the original version of Star Wars to theaters so audiences can experience this part of film history on the big screen,” said Lucasfilm Co-Lynwen Brennan in a statement.
“We look forward to celebrating with our fans all year long—from the releases of ‘Ahsoka’ and ‘Star Wars: Starfighter’ to exclusive merchandise, new publishing stories, unforgettable experiences and interactive games. We are so thankful for our amazing community and hope these experiences bring joy to Star Wars fans everywhere.” said Lynwen Brennan. Lucasfilm Co-President Lynwen Brennan
Disney+ and Theatrical Release Dates
The anniversary calendar kicks off early in the year, with the second season of Ahsoka premiering on Disney+ on January 20, 2027. Following the February 19 theatrical re-release of the 1977 original, fans can expect the release of Shawn Levy’s Star Wars: Starfighter on May 28.
On May 4, 2027, Disney+ will debut The Hero Awakens, a behind-the-scenes documentary directed by R.J. Cutler. The film utilizes archival footage and audio captured during the 1977 production. The project is produced by Lucasfilm, Cutler’s company This Machine, and Kennedy/Marshall.
A documentary about the making of ‘STAR WARS: A NEW HOPE’ will be release on Disney+ on May 4. The documentary will include archival footage and audio captured during the making of the original film. pic.twitter.com/xwZM3MF0sa
Immersive Screenings at Cosm Domes
In addition to traditional cinema, the franchise is expanding into immersive "shared reality" experiences. A partnership with technology company Cosm will bring the original Star Wars to its 87-foot diameter domes starting in March. The company is also set to launch immersive screenings of Universal’s “Shrek” in December.
According to Alexis Scalice, head of Cosm Studios, the company is building communities based on fandom as the foundation for its business. Regarding the dome technology, Scalice noted, “you feel those moments differently in an 87-foot diameter dome and 12k resolution with the sound system we have.”
These screenings will feature 12k resolution on concave screens that wrap around the viewer’s periphery. Unlike standard theatrical presentations, these dome screenings will display the film in a large center rectangle while projecting environments like Tatooine and Yavin IV onto the surrounding dome space to enhance the viewer’s sense of immersion.
May the Force be with you. Experience Star Wars: A New Hope at Cosm in shared reality when the film debuts in Cosm theaters nationwide in select markets March 2027. Art by Studio Number One pic.twitter.com/hqRrIWWxbB
Fan Events and Collectibles
The official Star Wars Celebration convention is scheduled to take place in Los Angeles from April 1–4, 2027. Ahead of these events, Lucasfilm has unveiled new commemorative art, including a poster by Matt Ferguson that pays homage to the 1977 original.
Retail collaborations are also central to the anniversary. Hasbro is launching a new "Retro 3.75-inch-scale" line of action figures modeled after the original Kenner toys. Other partners, including LEGO and Adidas, will release dedicated 50th-anniversary products throughout the year. Hasbro’s offerings will include figures of Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and R2-D2, alongside the Star Wars Retro Collection 6-pack.
Additional merchandise includes the Luke’s Red Five X-Wing, Obi-Wan Kenobi Legacy LIGHTSABER Collectible Set, Yoda Plush Palm Puppetronic Interactive Talking Action Figure, Millennium Falcon Playset, and the Star Wars 6″ Black Series STAP & Battle Droid.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Lucasfilm confirmed the film will be released in IMAX 70mm, standard IMAX, 70mm, 35mm, 4DX, and D-BOX.
The Hero Awakens, directed by R.J. Cutler, is scheduled for release on Disney+ on May 4, 2027.
From behind the scenes to 50 years on-screen, witness the beginnings of Star Wars in a brand new documentary directed by R. J. Cutler featuring archival footage and audio captured during the making of the historic film. The Hero Awakens debuts May 4, 2027, only on @DisneyPlus. pic.twitter.com/oUU67jlsS5
The 2027 convention will take place in Los Angeles from April 1 through April 4.
More on Lynwen Brennan
The reveal of the STAR WARS 50th anniversary logo. John Williams returned to orchestrate the score for the reveal. pic.twitter.com/xIXf4gC1I6
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