Parents News Forum
Star Wars takes over National Space Centre
Quote from Fergus McCarthy on July 1, 2026, 3:48 pmFamily Star Wars celebration returns
Star Wars fans can enjoy an unforgettable family day out as the National Space Centre celebrates 20 years of its hugely popular Star Wars weekend. The spectacular event takes place on 4 and 5 July and brings more than 100 costumed characters to Leicester each day. Families can book tickets at https://www.spacecentre.co.uk/whats-on/galactic-gathering/.
The event first launched in 2006 with support from the 501st UK Garrison. It quickly became one of the UK's biggest Star Wars celebrations. Today, it welcomes fans from across the country and transforms the National Space Centre into a galaxy full of adventure.
Meet Star Wars stars and creators
Visitors can meet special guests Annabelle Davis and Harrison Davis, who both appeared in Star Wars productions. Acclaimed concept artist Jake Lunt Davies also joins the celebration. He created fan favourites including BB-8, the Porgs and B2EMO. Illustrator JAKe Detonator will also attend after working on the popular book How to Speak Wookiee.
Characters from films, television series, books, comics and games will fill the venue throughout the weekend. Therefore, families can enjoy incredible photo opportunities wherever they explore.
Interactive fun for every generation
The action extends far beyond character appearances. Children can drive droids, build electronic badges and practise exciting lightsaber skills. Meanwhile, families can explore the immersive Mandalorian base inside the Tetrastar Spaceport.
Visitors can also complete a droid hunt, admire the special Rogue One tenth anniversary costume exhibition and sit proudly on Emperor Palpatine's famous throne. Young recruits can even test their aim using Rebel NERF blasters before meeting their favourite Star Wars heroes and villains.
With more than 100 characters appearing each day, every visit promises memorable encounters and fantastic family photographs.
Great value family day out
Every standard event ticket includes a free Annual Pass upgrade. Families can return throughout the year and enjoy even more space-themed adventures. However, Annual Passes do not provide entry during this flagship Star Wars weekend.
Families can also benefit from lower ticket prices during the summer thanks to the temporary HM Treasury VAT reduction. This milestone celebration therefore offers excellent value for visitors.
Every ticket also supports the National Space Centre's charitable work. Income helps fund inspiring education programmes, community outreach projects and the preservation of the UK's national space collection. As a result, every family visit helps inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers and explorers.
Discover the full programme and book tickets now at https://www.spacecentre.co.uk/whats-on/galactic-gathering/.
Family Star Wars celebration returns
Star Wars fans can enjoy an unforgettable family day out as the National Space Centre celebrates 20 years of its hugely popular Star Wars weekend. The spectacular event takes place on 4 and 5 July and brings more than 100 costumed characters to Leicester each day. Families can book tickets at https://www.spacecentre.co.uk/whats-on/galactic-gathering/.
The event first launched in 2006 with support from the 501st UK Garrison. It quickly became one of the UK's biggest Star Wars celebrations. Today, it welcomes fans from across the country and transforms the National Space Centre into a galaxy full of adventure.
Meet Star Wars stars and creators
Visitors can meet special guests Annabelle Davis and Harrison Davis, who both appeared in Star Wars productions. Acclaimed concept artist Jake Lunt Davies also joins the celebration. He created fan favourites including BB-8, the Porgs and B2EMO. Illustrator JAKe Detonator will also attend after working on the popular book How to Speak Wookiee.
Characters from films, television series, books, comics and games will fill the venue throughout the weekend. Therefore, families can enjoy incredible photo opportunities wherever they explore.
Interactive fun for every generation
The action extends far beyond character appearances. Children can drive droids, build electronic badges and practise exciting lightsaber skills. Meanwhile, families can explore the immersive Mandalorian base inside the Tetrastar Spaceport.
Visitors can also complete a droid hunt, admire the special Rogue One tenth anniversary costume exhibition and sit proudly on Emperor Palpatine's famous throne. Young recruits can even test their aim using Rebel NERF blasters before meeting their favourite Star Wars heroes and villains.
With more than 100 characters appearing each day, every visit promises memorable encounters and fantastic family photographs.
Great value family day out
Every standard event ticket includes a free Annual Pass upgrade. Families can return throughout the year and enjoy even more space-themed adventures. However, Annual Passes do not provide entry during this flagship Star Wars weekend.
Families can also benefit from lower ticket prices during the summer thanks to the temporary HM Treasury VAT reduction. This milestone celebration therefore offers excellent value for visitors.
Every ticket also supports the National Space Centre's charitable work. Income helps fund inspiring education programmes, community outreach projects and the preservation of the UK's national space collection. As a result, every family visit helps inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers and explorers.
Discover the full programme and book tickets now at https://www.spacecentre.co.uk/whats-on/galactic-gathering/.