A thematic exhibition dedicated to the Star Wars saga will celebrate the half-century of the franchise, whose original film was released in American cinemas on May 25, 1977, revolutionizing the science fiction and fantasy genres. Due to the cultural success of the work created by George Lucas, fans are eagerly awaiting this 50-year milestone.
To mark this half-century anniversary of the initial film, Lucasfilm and Disney announced the special show titled “Star Wars: The Experience – A Journey Through the Galaxy.” This exhibition will be available at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia from February to September 2027. The event will bring together over 70 original pieces used during filming, including notable items such as Darth Vader's mask and the popular droids R2-D2 and C-3PO.
After its time in Philadelphia, the exhibition plans to be itinerant, undertaking a five-year tour at various institutions located in North America.
In addition to iconic artifacts, such as Darth Maul's lightsaber hilt, droids, and Grogu himself, companion to the protagonist Mandalorian from the Disney+ series, visitors will experience an immersion into the distant galaxy, achieved by integrating elements of the saga with technologies aligned with the franchise's history.
Participants can walk through the court of Naboo and visit Queen Amidala's throne, portrayed by Natalie Portman, in an area called “Queen Amidala’s Throne Room,” set up with projections and suspended fabrics. In the “Wireframe Works” gallery, sketches, designs, design notes, graphics, and diagrams related to the saga's landscapes and spaceships are presented.
Another striking attraction is the “Carbon Freeze Capture,” which evokes a fundamental moment of the original trilogy: Han Solo's freezing in carbonite in the second film, Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back, from 1980. In this attraction, there will be a life-sized replica of Han Solo in carbonite, allowing fans to relive the famous scene.
The show will also feature over 100 saga toys and more than 30 rare, previously unseen prototypes. It offers a comprehensive view of 50 years of Star Wars, demonstrating the evolution of collectibles and toys—an essential part of the franchise's lasting cultural legacy—from the 1970s to the present day.
Operating dates are from February 13, 2027, to September 6, 2027. The event will take place at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. Tickets will begin going on sale to the general public starting in November 2026.