Disney Store Readies for Force Friday

Retailer plans events, limited edition product for Star Wars toy launch.

Disney Store is gearing up for Force Friday on Sept. 4, the global release date for product from the upcoming film Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

Disney Store locations in New York City (Times Square), Chicago (Michigan Avenue), and San Francisco (Stockton Street) will host midnight madness events with doors opening at 12:01 a.m. local time, giving fans the first opportunity to see and purchase toys, collectibles, books, apparel and more from the upcoming film. In addition, the first 1,000 guests will receive a free Star Wars: The Force Awakens D23 commemorative fan poster.

Additionally, on Thursday, Sept. 3, the Disney Store on North Michigan Avenue in Chicago will play host to one of the 15 live toy unboxing events happening around the world. Starting at 8:30 a.m. CDT, HobbyKidsTV, a YouTube channel that is part of the Maker Studios network, will be broadcasting live from inside the store, unveiling new products from Star Wars: The Force Awakens that will be available exclusively at Disney Store. 

In all Disney Store locations throughout North America doors will open for business on Force Friday with Star Wars-themed opening ceremonies, offering a galactic twist on the traditional “Unlocking Imagination” ritual. Other activities taking place at Disney Store locations (excluding Disney Store Outlets) on Force Friday include:

A free commemorative Star Wars: The Force Awakens pin for the first 100 guests who make a purchase on Force Friday

Numerous Star Wars events taking place including an R2-D2 craft activity, a Ways of the Force event, a Star Wars story time, "Art of Drawing: R2-D2," free Topps vintage trading card giveaway upon completion of an in-store event and Star Wars theming that pays homage to both the Dark Side and the Light.