Six years ago today, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance opened at Disneyland. With the opening of this attraction, the land was officially complete as had been initially envisioned. When the land had opened to the public the previous year, Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run was the only attraction that was operational. Guests utilized a virtual boarding group system to enter the land when it opened. For the opening of Rise of the Resistance, guests again found themselves returning to the Disneyland app on their phones in an effort to experience this new offering.
An Early Morning
The Daps Magic team got up well before the crack of dawn for the chance to experience this new Star Wars attraction. There was no guarantee that we’d be successful. People were let on to Main Street, USA shortly before 6:00 AM. As the sun began to rise over Main Street, USA, Star Wars fans could be seen packed everywhere, waiting for the moment to try to get a boarding group. The experience was worth it either way. That morning was an absolutely beautiful one. The sky was full of color. One could almost imagine Yoda using the Force to make something beautiful for those who were waiting and hoping for their chance to experience this new attraction.
The Moment of Truth
The boarding groups would be available at 8:00 AM. As people waited, there was a celebratory feel in the air. There was also a bit of tension as everyone hoped for their chance at success. The opening announcement at Disneyland that day was played at 7:45 AM. Some people streamed into the park, and many remained on Main Street, USA. As 8:00 AM arrived, the vibe changed again as the celebratory atmosphere turned very serious. People were all staring at their phones. 8:00 AM arrived, and the focus became even more intense. Within seconds, cheers could be heard up and down Main Street, USA. The energy was electric as people prepared to experience the adventure of the day and to join the Resistance on this mission against the First Order.
Within minutes, guests had dispersed from Main Street. Many made their way to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, including the Daps Magic team. Unsurprisingly, it was fairly busy. Ronto Roasters was particularly packed as Star Wars fans sought out a Star Wars breakfast (one I still enjoy today!). Over at Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, various characters could be seen near the entrance. When the Daps Magic team passed by, R2-D2 was right near the entrance of the attraction, and Vi Moradi could be found with Chewbacca chatting with guests about their mission.
A New Adventure
The Daps Magic team eventually made their way past the entrance gates of this brand-new attraction and into the tunnels. It opened our eyes as to what a new Star Wars attraction could be. While Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run was an amped up Star Tours, this was something unlike anything we had experienced before, and it was incredible! From the moment BB-8, Rey, and Poe Dameron told us what was going to happen to the moment we found ourselves back on Batuu, there was no shortage of adventure! This attraction delivered completely on bringing guests into the Star Wars story, and it still does.
Looking back at that day six years ago, it’s hard not to smile and get a little bit of a thrill. It was one of those very special days at Disneyland that stand out, as much (or perhaps even more?) as the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge itself. There were great people there, and the whole thing was a great experience. It is something that I’m thankful for several years later, and I’m sure I will be after decades as well!
The Force is Strong at Disneyland
As we look to the future, there is a lot to look forward to in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Soon, there will be an expanded timeline with some classic Star Wars characters arriving in the land. While changes will be coming to characters, shops, props, and storylines in Galaxy’s Edge, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance will remain the same. Guests will still get to join Rey and the Resistance as they fight for freedom against the First Order. With Disneyland never being complete, there is always the possibility that even more incredible experiences and adventures will also arrive in this land and further enhance these stories. The Force was strong with Disneyland six years ago today, but it looks like it just continues to get stronger as time goes by!
Were you at Disneyland for the opening of Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance? Did you get to experience it that day? Do you remember what it was like the first time you experienced it? Share your thoughts, memories, and opinions in the comments below!
