Movies

Star Wars Launch Bay to close in 2025 as Hollywood Studios prepares for major transformation

BBG News

Disneys Hollywood Studios is gearing up for its next major transformation, which brings forth fresh, thrilling adventures but also signals the conclusion of a cherished Star Wars chapter. By 2026, the current locales housing Star Wars Launch Bay and Animation Courtyard will be dramatically transformed into The Magic of Disney Animation – an innovative, character-focused experience modeled after the renowned short film “Once Upon a Studio.

For devoted Star Wars enthusiasts, it’s bittersweet to bid goodbye, but there lies an element of excitement about the possibilities that this transition might bring to the Star Wars narrative within the park.

For approximately ten years, Star Wars Launch Bay provided a tranquil, intimate experience for connecting with the distant galaxy. Often overlooked, it was a treasure trove where enthusiasts could encounter Chewbacca, spar with Darth Vader, examine original sets and artwork, and ponder over the enduring impact of the movie series that revolutionized cinema as we know it.

Prior to Galaxy’s Edge, Launch Bay served as the epicenter of Star Wars experience at Walt Disney World. It allowed fans an opportunity to immerse themselves in Star Wars lore, gain insights into the creative journey behind the saga, and interact with characters without requiring a boarding pass or reservation. For numerous visitors, it was their first encounter with the tangible allure of Star Wars.

Now, with Disney moving towards a more harmonious park design concept, we’re reaching the end of this particular phase.

On September 25, 2025, Launch Bay, Animation Courtyard, and the Disney Jr. Play and Dance! show will temporarily shut down to make way for a transformation. However, visitors can continue to enjoy the shows “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and “Walt Disney Presents” during this period.

As a die-hard Star Wars fan, I must confess my emotions run deep as I bid adieu to Launch Bay – not just a casual meet-and-greet spot, but a heartfelt tribute crafted especially for us.

Instead of Launch Bay and Animation Courtyard, Disney is planning to debut The Magic of Disney Animation – an exciting new venture that honors the characters, creativity, and whimsy of Disney Animation Studios. This redesigned building will be adorned with Mickey’s famous Sorcerer Hat and offer a variety of immersive studio-themed areas, animation workshops, and character encounters inspired by the story Once Upon a Studio.

Guests will:

  • Walk through a living animation building where Disney characters have taken over
  • Watch a short film with a unique twist
  • Take part in interactive storytelling moments
  • Learn to draw their own character sketches

Kids under age might find enchantment in “Drawn to Wonderland,” a captivating indoor playground designed around Mary Blair’s “Alice in Wonderland” artwork, bursting with giant flora, melodious playthings, and fanciful embellishments.

The courtyard exterior is going to be transformed into a delightful space known as the Walt Disney Studios Courtyard. This new area will feature comfortable lounging spots, charming character interactions, and refreshed presentations of the Disney Junior program.

Or simply:

Outside, we’re making over the courtyard to create the enchanting Walt Disney Studios Courtyard. It will include cozy seating areas, magical character experiences, and updated Disney Junior shows.

What This Means for Star Wars in the Park

Although it’s unfortunate that Launch Bay is closing, this change might pave the way for a more concentrated Star Wars atmosphere within Hollywood Studios. By merging the Star Wars experience into Galaxy’s Edge, Disney now has a chance to improve consistency throughout the park – something fans have been eagerly anticipating for quite some time.

With Launch Bay shutting down, it could pave the way for potential Galaxy’s Edge extensions or fresh experiences that will further develop the Star Wars tale in creative and groundbreaking manners.

The shutdown of Launch Bay doesn’t mark the demise of Star Wars in Disney; rather, it signifies a change, a reorientation. And as we’ve seen throughout the saga, endings often serve as new beginnings.

For devoted Star Wars enthusiasts, Launch Bay will forever hold a cherished spot in our hearts. It served as a peaceful retreat, an exhibition of legends, a link connecting films and fandom. As we eagerly anticipate what The Magic of Disney Animation will contribute to Hollywood Studios in 2026, we also pause to express gratitude for the memories, encounters, and enchantment that Launch Bay provided us with.

As a die-hard Star Wars fan who’s had the privilege of stepping into that galaxy far, far away for the first time there, or felt a deep connection seeing Ralph McQuarrie’s original artwork, or simply needed a peaceful corner to rejuvenate amidst the stars – this sanctuary was undeniably ours. And it’s an experience we’ll forever cherish.

So here’s to Launch Bay, and to what comes next. The Force is strong with both.

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2025-07-26 04:52

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