Anyone who has seen Star Wars can probably agree that lightsabers are cool.  When you add in Jedi skills, an Obi-Wan robe and a chance to defeat the Dark Side, you’ve got a pretty big adventure waiting at the Jedi Training Academy at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

Jedi Training Academy

This high-demand event is only for kids ages 4-12, although I’m sure there are plenty of grown ups who would love to become Jedis too!  There are shows about every 1/2 hour throughout the day, but spots fill up quick – and the kids who are signing up have to be present to register. So if Jedi Training is on the ‘must-do’ list for your Disney vacation, plan to be at the park before it opens to head straight to the ABC Sound Studio to register.

The show is really fun for kids who like Star Wars and aren’t afraid to be up on stage – the training is fairly fast paced and I have to admit, it’s a little intimidating to see Darth Vader storm out onto the stage with his cape flowing behind him, ready to do battle.  I’ve seen some smaller kids get scared at that point, but it all depends on the child’s personality.

The young Jedis are given robes and lightsabers before training begins.

Jedi Training – Lightsaber

Before the Jedis face Darth Vader, a Jedi Master trains them on how to activate the lightsaber and use it against an opponent in a series of moves.

Jedi Master

Then it’s time to battle the Dark Side!

Darth Vader – Jedi Training Academy

The Jedi Master coaches the young Jedi in the battle…

Jedi versus Darth Vader

And when they defeat the Dark Side, the young Jedis are awarded a personalized certificate with their name as a souvenir!

Jedi Training Certificate

Even if your kids don’t participate on stage, it’s a fun show to stop and watch if you’re in the area.  The Storm Troopers add some comic relief to the show so make sure to stay until the end!

Tagged: Disney, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disneyworld with kids, Hollywood Studios, Jedi Training Academy, Star Wars, Star Wars Weekend