This Upcoming Exhibit Celebrates 50 Years of Star Wars With a Peak Behind the Curtain

A landmark exhibit will celebrate five decades of Star Wars by pulling back the curtain on the galaxy far, far away. Star Wars: The Experience, set to premiere at Philadelphia’s Franklin Institute in 2027, promises fans an unprecedented look at how the Skywalker saga was brought to life.

The Franklin Institute, one of America's oldest science museums, will host this milestone exhibition timed to the 50th anniversary of the release of Star Wars: A New Hope in 1977. The institution has a strong track record of immersive pop-culture science exhibits, having previously mounted acclaimed shows on Star Trek, Harry Potter, and Marvel. Museum officials said the 2027 exhibit will blend original artifacts, interactive technology, and behind-the-scenes storytelling to explain the science, engineering, and artistry behind the franchise.

While specific details remain under wraps, the exhibit is expected to feature actual costumes, props, and set pieces from the Lucasfilm archives. Past collaborations between Lucasfilm and science museums have included stormtrooper armor, light-up lightsabers, and Darth Vader’s helmet. The Franklin Institute’s version will likely incorporate hands-on stations where visitors can explore physics concepts such as light, sound, and motion as depicted in the films.

The 50-year milestone is significant. Since the first film premiered in 1977, Star Wars has grown into a multi-billion-dollar franchise spanning movies, TV shows, theme parks, merchandise, and a passionate global fanbase. The exhibit arrives as Lucasfilm continues to expand the universe with new series like The Mandalorian, Ahsoka, and upcoming theatrical releases. It also coincides with the 50th anniversary of the franchise, making it a major cultural event.

Industry observers note that science museums increasingly use pop-culture tie-ins to attract younger, more diverse audiences. The Franklin Institute’s previous blockbuster exhibits have driven significant attendance spikes and member growth. For Star Wars fans, this exhibit offers a rare opportunity to see the real-world craftsmanship behind the fiction—from the industrial design of starships to the puppetry of Yoda.

Looking ahead, ticket presales are expected to begin in late 2026. The exhibit will run for approximately 9–12 months, potentially traveling to other museums afterward. For now, fans can mark their calendars for 2027 and start saving for a trip to Philadelphia. The Force will be strong at the Franklin Institute.