Disney Fan Fridays - Finding Your Star Wars Fix!
Disney For the Star Wars Fan
Disney Fan Friday
By Allison FlynnYoung padawans between the ages of 4 and 12 will certainly be drawn to Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort for all that is Star
Wars. There’s plenty of opportunity to fly through the galaxy with R2D2 and C3PO. And for those who want an upclose and personal visit with the big baddie himself, Darth Vader, there is Jedi Training Academy.Jedi Training Academy is led by a Jedi Master and his assistants, who lead young padawans through a light saber training exercise.My oldest son is a huge Star Wars fan, thanks to animated series like “Star Wars: Clone Wars” and “Star Wars: Rebels.” When he learned he could actually train to be a Jedi, it was all we could do to contain him for the flight to Orlando.Registering for Jedi Training Academy should be your first stop when you arrive at Hollywood Studios - registration i shelf at the ABC Sound Studio. There are several sessions of the academy scheduled throughout the day, but spots do fill up fast as only 12
guests are selected for each show. Jedi Training Academy participants must be present with an adult when registering for the experience. Once you are registered, you are free to visit other attractions in the park - but just make sure you will have enough time to arrive for training. Participants must arrive 30 minutes prior to their assigned show to receive instructions.Padawans are provided a Jedi Training Robe and light saber for the Academy (outside light sabers are not allowed), as well as information on how to use their saber and the Force in battle. Participants should be on the lookout, though, as the Dark Side does make an appearance in the middle of training. If your child scares easily, it might be best to skip this experience or allow them to view a training before they take part.At the end of the 20-minute experience, padawans receive a certificate stating they child has proven him or herself worth of training as a Jedi, and to remember that the Force should be used for knowledge and defense, never for attack. 
Jedi Training Academy is held onstage adjacent to Star Tours. A PhotoPass photographer take photos during the show, which can be added to your MemoryMaker or PhotoPass plans at the Cover Story photo shop near the park’s entrance.There’s even more fun for Jedi and Sith alike during the Walt Disney World Resorts Star Wars Weekends, which are May 15-June 14, 2015. In addition to the opportunity to meet and interact with your favorite characters, there’s also limited-edition merchandise and a fireworks evening finale, Symphony in the Stars.Special dining opportunities begin a little earlier than the Weekends. Starting May 4, you can enjoy a Dine-In Galactic Breakfast at the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant and Mickey’s Star Wars Dine at Hollywood and Vine.Jedi Training Academy sessions are held during Star Wars Weekends as well!If you’d like more information on how your young Jedi can take part in this experience, or plan your next vacation to the Walt Disney World Resort, contact Concierge Agent Allison Flynn at allisonf@wishesfamilytravel.com or follow her on Facebook at Facebook.com/aflynn.wft.