National Star Wars Day, celebrated annually on May 4th, is a tribute to the iconic Star Wars franchise created by George Lucas. The date was chosen for its clever pun on the famous phrase, “May the Force be with you,” transforming it into “May the Fourth be with you.” Fans worldwide embrace this day to honor a galaxy far, far away through movie marathons, cosplay, trivia games, and more.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: May 4th every year.
- Tagged as: A celebration of Star Wars fandom and pop culture.
- What’s the hashtag?: #MayTheFourthBeWithYou or #StarWarsDay.
- When was it founded?: The first organized celebration was in 2011.
- Who founded it?: Sean Ward and Alice Quinn in Toronto, Canada.
History of National Star Wars Day
The origins of National Star Wars Day trace back to May 4, 1979, when a congratulatory newspaper ad for Margaret Thatcher’s election as UK Prime Minister used the phrase “May the Fourth Be with You.” This clever pun resonated with Star Wars fans and gained popularity over time. By 2011, the first official celebration took place in Toronto, featuring trivia contests, costume events, and screenings. Since then, the day has grown into a global phenomenon embraced by fans and even officially recognized by Disney.
Timeline
- 1977: The first Star Wars film (A New Hope) is released.
- 1979: The phrase “May the Fourth Be With You” is first used publicly.
- 2008: Facebook groups popularize “Luke Skywalker Day.”
- 2011: The first organized Star Wars Day celebration happens in Toronto.
- 2015: Astronauts celebrate Star Wars Day aboard the International Space Station.
- 2019: California officially recognizes May 4th as Star Wars Day.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | May 4 | Sunday |
| 2026 | May 4 | Monday |
| 2027 | May 4 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | May 4 | Thursday |
| 2029 | May 4 | Friday |
| 2030 | May 4 | Saturday |
Observed
Fans observe National Star Wars Day by engaging in various activities such as:
- Dressing up as favorite characters like Darth Vader or Princess Leia.
- Hosting movie marathons of Star Wars films or series.
- Sharing memes and artwork on social media using #MayTheFourthBeWithYou.
- Participating in trivia games or cosplay events.
- Enjoying themed snacks and merchandise promotions.
Fun Facts About National Star Wars Day
- The first Star Wars movie premiered on May 25, not May 4.
- In 2015, astronauts celebrated by watching Star Wars aboard the International Space Station.
- The Peace Tower in Ottawa played “The Imperial March” on its bells for Star Wars Day.
Quiz
- What inspired the date for National Star Wars Day?
- Who created Star Wars?
- What is the famous phrase associated with this day?
Answers:
- A pun on “May the Force be with you.”
- George Lucas.
- “May the Fourth be with you.”
FAQs
- Why is it celebrated on May 4th?
The date sounds like “May the Force,” making it a fun play on words. - Is it an official holiday?
No, but it’s widely recognized and celebrated. - Who celebrates it?
Fans of all ages across the globe.
Related
- Geek Pride Day (May 25)
- Free Comic Book Day
- Star Trek Day (September 8)
Celebrate National Star Wars Day with enthusiasm and creativity—after all, the Force will always be with us!