Disneyland Resort Gears Up for "Season of the Force" with a Galaxy of Star Wars Merchandise

The Disneyland Resort is preparing to immerse guests in the Star Wars universe with its annual "Season of the Force" celebration, promising a constellation of new merchandise and culinary offerings. From quirky sippers to imposing popcorn buckets, the event, running from March 28th to May 11th, is set to ignite the imaginations of Star Wars fans young and old. However, be warned, the allure of these galactic goodies is expected to draw crowds, potentially leading to some intergalactic elbowing matches with determined resellers.

The undeniable stars of this year’s merchandise lineup are undoubtedly the Jawa sipper and the Tauntaun popcorn bucket. The Jawa sipper, described as "ridiculous" and a must-have, captures the scavenging spirit of the diminutive creatures from Tatooine. Its whimsical design is sure to be a conversation starter, adding a touch of Star Wars charm to every sip.

But the Tauntaun popcorn bucket? That’s a whole other level of Star Wars dedication. This item, affectionately dubbed "unhinged," transforms the iconic snow lizard from Hoth into a vessel for your favorite popcorn. While the actual capacity of the bucket remains somewhat mysterious, the author playfully suggests it might even accommodate a Han Solo action figure alongside your snacks. It’s a bold statement piece, perfect for showcasing your Star Wars fandom and perhaps even eliciting a few curious glances.

The release dates for these coveted items are strategically staggered, adding to the anticipation. The Tauntaun popcorn bucket will make its debut on April 8th, appearing at various locations within Disneyland, including beverage carts in Galaxy’s Edge and Kat Saka’s Kettle. Adding a touch of immersive authenticity, you can even fill your Tauntaun with popped grains or Galma Garlic Puffs at Kat Saka’s, recreating that unmistakable "movie-accurate guts smell" on the inside. For those seeking a more classic pairing, the Tauntaun will also be available at Tomorrowland’s Galactic Grill with a side of fries.

The Jawa sipper will arrive later, on May 4th, a date synonymous with Star Wars celebrations. You can find it at Galactic Grill, the Disneyland Hotel’s Coffee House, and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel’s Great Hall Cart, both in the lobby and poolside at the GCH Craftsman Grill.

Beyond the sipper and bucket sensations, Oga’s Cantina, the infamous watering hole in Galaxy’s Edge, is joining the festivities with a new tiki-style mug. This mug features a Mythosaur carving on a bone-shaped container, befitting the most seasoned bounty hunter. The mug will accompany the debut of the Ne’tra gal Ale, a unique concoction blending White Wampa Ale with apple cider and cherry puree, launching on March 28th.

For those seeking a deeper dive into the Star Wars lore, the Coaxium sipper offers a rare treat. Available at Galaxy’s Edge’s Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo and Ronto Roasters, this sipper, which comes with your choice of fountain beverage, is a nod to the valuable fuel source featured in "Solo: A Star Wars Story."

Adding to the popcorn bucket bonanza, a new Death Star popcorn bucket will loom large within Disneyland. You can find this imposing piece at Galaxy’s Edge’s Kat Saka’s Kettle and beverage carts, filled with popped grains and Galma Garlic puffs, or at Tomorrowland’s Galactic Grill with fries. For those with a sweet tooth, the Death Star can also be acquired at Disney’s Grand Californian Great Hall Cart with a side of Space Rock Cookies, offering the perfect opportunity to quote the iconic line, "Come to the dark side, we have cookies."

Beverage enthusiasts will also find plenty to celebrate. Two prequel series tumblers will be released at the Disneyland Hotel and Disney’s Grand Californian, as well as in Disneyland’s Galactic Grill. These tumblers offer a stylish way to showcase your appreciation for the earlier chapters of the Star Wars saga.

Tomorrowland’s Galactic Grill will also be introducing lightsaber-inspired slush drinks, adding a vibrant and refreshing twist to the Star Wars experience. Choose between the Darth Vader Lightsaber Swizzle Stick served with a Coca-Cola slushy, or the Skywalker Lightsaber Swizzle Stick served with a Blue Raspberry slushy. As an added bonus, the lightsabers in these drinks actually light up, making them the perfect souvenir to take home.

With such a wide array of merchandise and culinary offerings, "Season of the Force" promises to be an unforgettable experience for Star Wars fans visiting the Disneyland Resort. Just remember to prepare for the crowds, secure your must-have items early, and may the Force be with you as you navigate the galaxy of galactic goodies. And perhaps, just perhaps, practice your lightsaber skills for those reseller encounters. Good luck, you’ll need it.