Galactic Gathering to kick off Star Wars Weekends May 14

Star Wars Weekends will officially kick off with a “Galactic Gathering,” a special event that will give fans who shell out $250 each access to early shopping.

If you’ve never seen the insane lines for the limited edition merchandise at some of these events, we can tell you: It might very well be worth the price.

The event, similar to last year’s “Rebel Rendezvous,” takes place Thursday, May 14, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and requires admission to Hollywood Studios.

Registration begins tomorrow, March 4, at 1 p.m. eastern on DisneyParksMerchandise.com. The number of tickets is limited.

What do you get for the price?

• The first opportunity to buy new products created especially for Star Wars Weekends, including Aurebesh name tags, D-Tech phone cases, Dooney & Bourke handbags, retail magic bands and more. 
• A Light Speed Pass that gives you special access to Darth’s Mall for all five Star Wars Weekends 
• A Rebel or Empire retail MagicBand, which you can choose when registering online
• A commemorative trading pin
• Han Solo-inspired popcorn bucket with popcorn 
• The opportunity to meet Disney characters, Disney Design Group Artists and Ashley Eckstein from Her Universe
• The first chance to purchase new figures for “Star Wars D-Tech Me,” which will put your face on a Jedi Knight or a TIE-Fighter pilot.