Disney and Lucasfilm announce a massive year-long celebration featuring the original 1977 STAR WARS theatrical rerelease, AHSOKA Season 2, Ryan Gosling’s STAR WARS: STARFIGHTER, exclusive fan events, collectibles, and more.
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, a cinematic phenomenon was born that would forever change the entertainment industry. Now, 50 years later, STAR WARS is preparing for an extraordinary return to the big screen as Disney and Lucasfilm announce a massive global celebration honoring five decades of unforgettable storytelling, beloved characters, and groundbreaking filmmaking.
The year-long 50th anniversary celebration in 2027 will bring the original 1977 STAR WARS back to theaters worldwide, alongside new theatrical adventures, Disney+ premieres, exclusive merchandise, immersive experiences, concerts, and special events designed to unite generations of fans.
The centerpiece of the celebration is the highly anticipated theatrical re-release of George Lucas’ original STAR WARS on February 19, 2027, giving longtime fans an opportunity to revisit the adventure that started it all while introducing a new generation to Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo, Darth Vader, and the galaxy that became a worldwide cultural phenomenon.
Lucasfilm is also introducing a special 50th anniversary logo accompanied by a newly orchestrated score from legendary composer John Williams, honoring the musical legacy that has helped define the franchise for half a century.
The Original STAR WARS Returns to Theaters in IMAX and 70mm
For the first time in decades, audiences will have the opportunity to experience a restored version of the original 1977 theatrical release of STAR WARS, later retitled STAR WARS: A NEW HOPE.
Beginning February 19, 2027, the landmark film will return to thousands of screens worldwide, with presentations available in IMAX 70mm, Digital IMAX, traditional 70mm, 35mm, Digital Cinema, 4DX, D-BOX, and other premium motion theater formats.
The anniversary re-release marks the first time the original STAR WARS will be presented in IMAX, offering fans an entirely new way to experience the film’s legendary space battles, groundbreaking visual effects, and John Williams’ unforgettable score.
For audiences who grew up watching STAR WARS on VHS, DVD, Blu-ray, or streaming, the opportunity to experience the original theatrical version on the big screen represents something truly special.
The 1977 film introduced audiences to an unforgettable adventure involving a young farm boy named Luke Skywalker, a mysterious Jedi Knight, a fearless princess, and a pair of unlikely smugglers fighting against the Galactic Empire. What followed was one of the most influential movie franchises in history.
Lucasfilm has also unveiled a new anniversary poster illustrated by artist Matt Ferguson, paying tribute to the original theatrical artwork that helped introduce STAR WARS to audiences nearly five decades ago.
Ticket sale information and additional screening details will be announced.
AHSOKA Season 2 Launches the Anniversary Celebration
Before STAR WARS returns to theaters, the celebration will officially kick into high gear with the arrival of AHSOKA Season 2 on Disney+ on January 20, 2027.
Rosario Dawson reprises her role as Ahsoka Tano in the next chapter of the live-action series, which takes place following the fall of the Empire and the emergence of the New Republic.
The upcoming season follows Ahsoka as she continues questioning what it means to be a Jedi while the galaxy faces the growing threat of Grand Admiral Thrawn.
Hayden Christensen returns as Anakin Skywalker, while Eman Esfandi reprises his role as Ezra Bridger. The new season promises larger battles, greater stakes, and deeper connections to the mythology of the STAR WARS universe.
AHSOKA Season 2 will premiere exclusively on Disney+, setting the stage for an anniversary year filled with new and familiar adventures.
Ryan Gosling Headlines STAR WARS: STARFIGHTER
One of the biggest theatrical events of the anniversary celebration arrives on May 28, 2027, when STAR WARS: STARFIGHTER makes its worldwide debut.
Directed by Shawn Levy, known for DEADPOOL & WOLVERINE and FREE GUY, the upcoming standalone adventure stars Ryan Gosling as Kade Auberon, a cynical rogue whose mysterious past sends him on a dangerous journey across the galaxy.
Rather than revisiting familiar characters and established storylines, STARFIGHTER introduces an entirely new collection of heroes, villains, and locations in a previously unexplored era of STAR WARS storytelling.
Joining Gosling are Matt Smith, Mia Goth, Aaron Pierre, Amy Adams, Flynn Gray, Jamael Westman, and Daniel Ings.
The film is written by Jonathan Tropper and produced by Levy and Kathleen Kennedy.
STARFIGHTER will also receive premium theatrical presentations, including IMAX 70mm at select locations, helping make the anniversary weekend a major cinematic event.
Its release is especially significant because May 28 falls on the same weekend that George Lucas’ original STAR WARS debuted in theaters 50 years earlier, on May 25, 1977.
STAR WARS Celebration Returns to Los Angeles
Fans looking to experience the anniversary alongside thousands of fellow STAR WARS enthusiasts will have the opportunity to attend STAR WARS Celebration at the Los Angeles Convention Center from April 1–4, 2027.
The massive four-day event will feature exclusive panels, celebrity appearances, hundreds of exhibitors, collectible merchandise, and special presentations honoring the franchise’s 50-year legacy.
The event marks the first time STAR WARS Celebration has returned to Los Angeles since 2006, making the anniversary gathering particularly meaningful for longtime fans.
Although the event is already sold out, STAR WARS Celebration is expected to serve as one of the biggest highlights of the anniversary year, bringing the franchise’s past, present, and future together under one roof.
The Hollywood Bowl Celebrates John Williams’ Music
The celebration will also honor the music that helped make STAR WARS one of cinema’s most recognizable franchises.
On April 2 and 3, the Hollywood Bowl will host STAR WARS IN CONCERT: THE SKYWALKER SAGA, a special live orchestral experience featuring music and scenes from all nine films in the Skywalker Saga.
Hosted by Anthony Daniels, the actor behind C-3PO, the performances will celebrate John Williams’ legendary compositions while taking audiences on a musical journey through the franchise’s most memorable moments.
The Hollywood Bowl holds a special connection to the series, having hosted the first official STAR WARS concert in November 1977.
Nearly five decades later, the venue will once again celebrate the music, characters, and adventures that continue to inspire audiences around the world.
A New STAR WARS Documentary Arrives on May the 4th
Disney+ will celebrate STAR WARS Day on May 4, 2027, with the premiere of THE HERO AWAKENS, a new documentary from acclaimed filmmaker R.J. Cutler.
The documentary will explore the making of the original 1977 STAR WARS through archival footage and audio captured during and around the film’s production.
Rather than relying solely on modern interviews and retrospective commentary, THE HERO AWAKENS will give audiences a rare opportunity to revisit the creative process behind one of the most important productions in movie history.
Produced by Lucasfilm, Cutler, This Machine, and Kennedy/Marshall, the documentary promises a revealing look at the filmmaking journey that transformed George Lucas’ ambitious science-fiction adventure into an international phenomenon.
Fans Can Step Inside STAR WARS With Immersive Experiences
The anniversary celebration will extend beyond traditional theaters with several experiences designed to transport fans directly into the galaxy.
Beginning in March 2027, immersive entertainment company Cosm will present STAR WARS: A NEW HOPE in its Shared Reality format at venues in Atlanta, Dallas, Detroit, and Los Angeles.
The experience will use Cosm’s massive 12K+ LED dome technology to surround audiences with imagery from the film, creating an environment designed to make viewers feel immersed in the STAR WARS universe.
Unlike the theatrical re-release of the original 1977 version, the Cosm presentation will feature the 2019 Disney+ version of A NEW HOPE.
The venues will also feature themed environments, specially designed food and beverages, and exclusive artwork from Shepard Fairey’s creative agency, Studio Number One.
Meanwhile, Philadelphia’s Franklin Institute will open STAR WARS: THE EXPERIENCE – A JOURNEY THROUGH THE GALAXY on February 13, 2027.
The traveling exhibition will offer an extensive behind-the-scenes exploration of the franchise, featuring interactive elements and exhibits celebrating the creativity and craftsmanship behind STAR WARS.
Created in collaboration with Lucasfilm, Disney Consumer Products, and MDSX, the exhibition is being presented as the largest and most comprehensive traveling exhibition dedicated to the franchise.
Tickets for the Philadelphia experience are available through the Franklin Institute.
LEGO, Hasbro, and Major Brands Join the 50th Anniversary
Collectors will have plenty to look forward to throughout 2027, with Disney and Lucasfilm announcing an extensive lineup of limited-edition merchandise and special collaborations.
Hasbro is introducing new STAR WARS collectibles inspired by the original 1977 film, including additions to its popular BLACK SERIES, VINTAGE COLLECTION, and RETRO product lines.
Preorders for the newly announced assortment begin November 13, 2026, through Hasbro and select retailers.
The LEGO Group is also celebrating the occasion with a seven-piece anniversary collection featuring iconic vehicles, helmets, artwork, and collectible display models.
Each anniversary set will include exclusive minifigures inspired by original STAR WARS concept artwork from legendary artist Ralph McQuarrie, alongside specially designed collectible poster tiles.
The collection launches January 1, 2027, through LEGO Stores and online.
Beyond toys and collectibles, the celebration will feature collaborations involving adidas, Mars, Aston Martin, Steinway, and Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama through Complex.
Aston Martin’s partnership will bring together luxury automotive design and STAR WARS-inspired creativity through special products and experiences throughout the anniversary year.
Additional partnerships across apparel, electronics, food, automotive, and entertainment are expected to be announced.
Disney Parks and More Anniversary Surprises Are Coming
The celebration will also reach Disney Parks and Disney Cruise Line, with Lucasfilm teasing reimagined experiences and special offerings throughout the year.
Fans can expect additional announcements involving interactive games, publishing projects, archival releases, and new collaborations that celebrate the franchise’s rich history.
Disney and Lucasfilm have made it clear that the initial announcements represent only the beginning of their plans for the 50th anniversary, with more surprises expected as the milestone approaches.
Lucasfilm Celebrates 50 Years of STAR WARS
Lucasfilm Co-President Lynwen Brennan emphasized the importance of bringing the original film back to theaters and celebrating the generations of fans who have supported the franchise.
“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.”
Brennan also highlighted the anniversary’s broader slate, from new theatrical and streaming releases to merchandise, publishing, and fan experiences designed to bring the global STAR WARS community together.
For 50 years, STAR WARS has remained far more than a movie franchise. From its revolutionary visual effects and unforgettable characters to its influence on filmmaking, music, television, merchandise, and popular culture, George Lucas’ creation has continued to inspire storytellers and audiences across generations.
The upcoming anniversary offers fans an opportunity to celebrate that legacy while looking ahead to the future of a galaxy far, far away.
With the original film returning to theaters, Ryan Gosling leading a new cinematic adventure, Rosario Dawson continuing Ahsoka Tano’s journey, and an entire year of immersive experiences and special events, 2027 is shaping up to be one of the biggest years in STAR WARS history.
STAR WARS (1977) returns to theaters February 19, 2027, while STAR WARS: STARFIGHTER arrives May 28, 2027.
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Sean Tajipour
Sean Tajipour is the Founder and Editor of Nerdtropolis and the host of the Moviegoers Society and Reel Insights Podcast. He is also a member of the Critics Choice Association. You can follow on Twitter and Instagram @Seantaj.
