Rise of the Resistance: Sanding and Thematic Updates at Disneyland (2026)

Imagine stepping into a galaxy far, far away, only to find it’s undergoing a major transformation. That’s exactly what’s happening at Disneyland’s Rise of the Resistance in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. But here’s where it gets controversial: the beloved ride has been closed since January 20, 2026, with no reopening date in sight, and fans are buzzing about the mysterious changes taking place. During our visit on February 3, we spotted two cast members hard at work sanding and retheming the gates at the ride’s exit, located just to the right of Resistance Supply. The metallic gray paint that once covered these structures is being replaced with a fresh, new look—part of a larger overhaul tied to the upcoming timeline shift in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. And this is the part most people miss: starting April 29, 2026, half of the land will transport guests to the original trilogy era, while the other half remains rooted in the sequel trilogy. Is this a bold move or a risky gamble? Let us know what you think in the comments!

While the exterior changes are visible, it’s unclear whether the ride’s interior is also getting a makeover. The construction walls and scrim covering a Resistance turret near the entrance remain in place, leaving fans to speculate about what’s behind the scenes. For context, the gates at the ride’s exit previously sported a sleek metallic gray finish—a stark contrast to the new theme being introduced. These updates are exclusively happening at Disneyland Resort, with no word yet on whether Disney’s Hollywood Studios will follow suit. Could this create a divide among Star Wars fans?

As we await more details, one thing’s for sure: the galaxy is evolving, and not everyone will agree on the direction. Are you excited about these changes, or do you think some things are better left untouched? Share your thoughts on social media! For the latest updates on Disneyland Resort and beyond, follow Disneyland News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, or visit WDWNT for global Disney Parks news. And don’t forget to check out our ride POV of Rise of the Resistance with its iconic functioning cannons—a reminder of what we’re all missing while we wait for its return.

Rise of the Resistance: Sanding and Thematic Updates at Disneyland (2026)
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