03-05-2025
What is Star Wars Day and when did it start? Here's what to know
Fans of the 1977 classic movie, "Star Wars" have been celebrating an unofficial holiday since 1978, and that holiday is coming up again.
Over the years, May 4 became known as "May the Fourth Be With You," or Star Wars Day, as it is now referred to.
The day has evolved into a universal celebration of the "Star Wars" world, and everything in it.
But when did it start? And what are some things that occur that day?
Here's what to know.
According to the "Star Wars" website, the unofficial holiday "has no single point of origin. It has no official commencement year, no formal dedication. It is a grassroots phenomenon that now transcends the English language pun that inspired it."
The "Star Wars" website stated that the earliest time it was celebrated was in 1978, one year after the original film was released.
The website explained that in 1978, different journalists used the phrase, "May the Fourth Be With You" as a quip to celebrate July 4, adding that newspapers in the UK began using the phrase the following year in 1979.
There was also an incident that happened in 1982 that added some fuel to the phrase's fire.
The "Star Wars" website stated, "Randy Thom, who today is the director of sound design at Skywalker Sound and has been with the company for over 40 years, worked as a location sound the production unit in northern California as they shot in the redwood forest doubling for the moon of Endor.
"May 4, 1982, happened to be a working day, and Thom recalled thinking of the pun on his own when contemplating the date. He shared it with others on the set, and would continue to write an annual message to the company declaring 'May the 4th Be With You' for years to come."
The "Star Wars" website stated that the following are some ways to celebrate the day:
Movie marathons: Many people enjoy watching the movies and shows in the "Star Wars" saga on the unofficial holiday.
Themed parties: Some people host "Star Wars" parties, with decorations, costumes, food, and activities.
Dress-up day: Some fans like dressing up as favorite characters, from Darth Vader to Baby Yoda.
"Star Wars" crafts: Activities can include making lightsabers, droids, or other "Star Wars" themed crafts.
Trivia and games: Playing "Star Wars" trivia or engaging in themed games like galactic egg races or obstacle courses are popular activities.
"Star Wars" food and drinks: Fans of the film like enjoying Blue Milk, Bantha Kebobs, or other "Star Wars" inspired food and drinks.
Social media: Posting on social media with #NationalStarWarsDay and sharing themed content is a way to connect with other fans.
According to the Lego website, the new building sets, available on May 1, include:
Jango Fett's Firespray-Class Starship (75409): A highly detailed and large-scale model of Jango Fett's Slave 1.
Chopper (C1-10P Astromech Droid (75416): A buildable version of the popular droid character.
Brick-Built Star Wars logo (75407): A decorative display piece featuring the iconic Star Wars logo.
Jango Fett and Kylo Ren helmets (75408 and 75415): Detailed, buildable versions of these iconic helmets.
Kylo Ren's Command Shuttle (75406): A mid-scale model of the shuttle.
Rebel U-Wing Starfighter (75399): A set inspired by Star Wars: Andor season 2.
Revenge of the Sith Heroes & Villains (40796) and Luke Skywalker (Rebel Pilot) (40795): Collectible mini-figures featuring iconic characters.
Visit for more information about other products.
There will also be deals for Star Wars Day via and Penguin Random House.
This article originally appeared on The Patriot Ledger: Want to celebrate Star Wars Day?' Here's how to do it
