Star Wars Day, celebrated annually on May 4th, has become a cherished occasion for millions of Star Wars fans across the globe. On this special day, fans gather to honor and revel in the beloved Star Wars media franchise, created by the visionary filmmaker George Lucas.
The origins of this holiday are rooted in a delightful pun on the iconic Star Wars phrase, “May the Force be with you.” The amusing play on words goes, “May the Fourth be with you.” Ever since this catchy tagline emerged, it has captured the hearts of fans and has become synonymous with Star Wars Day. While the holiday was not officially endorsed by Lucasfilm, its popularity soared among fans who embraced the opportunity to commemorate it.
The earliest recorded use of the phrase dates back to 1979, the day following Margaret Thatcher’s ascent to become the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. In a gesture of congratulations, Thatcher’s political party, the Conservatives, published an advertisement in the Evening News featuring the message, “May the Fourth Be with You, Maggie.”
Over the years, this pun has made appearances in various forms, from a UK Parliament defence debate in 1994 to astrophysicist Jeanne Cavelos’ book “The Science of Star Wars” in 1999. The phrase continued to gain traction and prominence.
In 2008, the first Facebook groups dedicated to celebrating Star Wars Day emerged. Then, in 2011, the inaugural organized celebration took place in the vibrant city of Toronto, Canada. This event featured trivia games, costume contests, and screenings of tribute films, setting the stage for future festivities.
In 2013, The Walt Disney Company, following its acquisition of Lucasfilm in 2012, officially acknowledged Star Wars Day and commenced hosting events and galas at Disneyland and Walt Disney World. This extraordinary collaboration prompted a wave of fresh and exciting Star Wars content and experiences that enthralled fans on every Star Wars Day.
While May 4th holds a special place in the hearts of Star Wars enthusiasts, other dates have also found themselves intertwined with the saga’s celebrations. May 5th has become affectionately known as “Revenge of the Fifth,” focusing on the notorious Sith and other villains within the franchise. Additionally, May 25th, the anniversary of the release of the original Star Wars movie in 1977, has been officially declared Star Wars Day by the Los Angeles City Council.
The widespread adoration for Star Wars Day has transcended beyond the realms of movies and fandom. Major League Baseball, association football, and college sports teams all pay homage to Star Wars, and Minor League Baseball teams often put together captivating promotions centered around the galactic adventure.
Even astronauts aboard the International Space Station celebrated Star Wars Day in 2015 by enjoying screenings of the films. In a delightful gesture, the carillon bells inside the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Canada chimed to the tune of “The Imperial March” theme from Star Wars, further immortalizing the magic of the franchise.
In 2023, on Star Wars Day, the late Carrie Fisher, who stole hearts with her portrayal of the iconic Princess Leia, will receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This momentous occasion serves as a testament to the enduring significance and profound impact Star Wars has had on popular culture.
Star Wars Day continues to unite fans worldwide, cultivating a sense of community and channeling their boundless love for the epic saga. This annual celebration allows enthusiasts to pay tribute to the beloved franchise and perpetuate its timeless legacy. May the Fourth be with you!
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Star_Wars_Day
https://stmdailynews.com/category/entertainment
