A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, there was a young girl who really liked Star Wars. She would wear her hair in Princess Leia “buns” and her parents even had a framed poster for the Star Wars movie in their living room. After all, it was the 70s, and Star Wars had taken the world by storm. And yes, that girl was me.

I considered myself a fan, even though I only recall seeing the first two Star Wars movies when I was younger. It wasn’t until I married my husband, Chris, that I was introduced to a whole other level of Star Wars fandom. My husband and bonus kids were die hard, Star Wars nerds. (and I mean that in the most loving sense of the word, because they are my family.)

Chris saw the orginial Star Wars movies in the theater, because, and I quote, “he’s older than I am.” He introduced the kids to Star Wars in 1997, when they re-released the originals. And once the other movies came out, it became tradition to go and see them. It wasn’t until Revenge of the Sith was released that we all saw a Star Wars movie together as a family, and I also became a Star Wars nerd. One of my favortie family memories was when we spent an entire New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day in our pajamas and watched all of the Star Wars movies.

But it wasn’t until a few years ago that I was aware a holiday actually existed for true, Star Wars fanatics: May the 4th Be With You. Star Wars Day.

So what exactly is Star Wars Day? It is an unofficial holiday, but I’m sure if you asked Lucasfilm and Disney, they may consider it an official one. In fact, since 2013 The Walt Disney Company has officially observed the holiday with several Star Wars events and festivities at Disneyland and Walt Disney World. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_Wars_Day

According to the orgin story recognized by Lucasfilm, the phrase was first used on May 4, 1979, the day that Margaret Thatcher took office as the UK prime minister. The Conservative Party allegedly placed an ad in The London Evening News which read, “May the Fourth Be With You, Maggie. Congratulations.” https://www.cnn.com/2015/05/04/entertainment/what-is-star-wars-day-feat/index.html

This pun on the line “May the force be with you,” has somehow morphed into an observance of all things Star Wars. It’s gone viral in this age of social media, and has now expanded to real life events, with the day being celebrated worldwide. People dress up as Star Wars characters and you can even score deals on Star Wars merchandise.

But you don’t have to visit Disneyland or Disneyworld to truly celebrate Star Wars Day. Consider hosting your own party, complete with Star Wars themed costumes, snacks, decorations, etc., or having a Star Wars marathon. But that may take awhile, so maybe just consider watching the originals. There is even a May the Fourth Be With You improv comedy show happening right here in Waco on Star Wars Day! https://wacoheartoftexas.com/event/may-the-fourth-improv-comedy/

It should be no surprise that this iconic film series, which celebrated it’s 40th anniversary last year, is recognized all over the world. Think about it: a movie that came out over 40 years ago is enjoyed by my husband, our millennial children and our six-year old son!

And whether you decide to celebrate or not, I hope you’ve enjoyed finding out a little bit more about this phenomenon called Star Wars Day.

May the 4th Be With You!