Join the Rebellion: How to Celebrate Star Wars Day Like a Jedi Master
May the Fourth be with you! Every year, on May 4th, Star Wars fans around the world celebrate their love for the iconic sci-fi franchise. Whether your plans for the day include a costume party or just settling down in your favorite T-shirt to watch a movie or two, why not kick off the Star Wars Day celebrations with our special blog post?
We will explore the history and significance of the day, as well as some of the ways that fans celebrate this special occasion so you can get some last-minute inspo if you still haven't got any plans. Of course, May 4th is all about the exciting collaborations and commemorative merch, so if you're looking for the hottest releases hitting stores today, special sales, and exciting media releases, just read on!
We know that Star Wars merchandise is highly sought-after, but not always available in every country. That's why we’re here to help you get the best Star Wars items from the UK, no matter where you are in the world. Because no Star Wars fan should spend May 4th without a BB8 plushie to cuddle or a lightsaber to wield. Register now for your free address and let's dive in and discover the exciting world of Star Wars!
How Star Wars Day Started and How It’s Celebrated Today
The history of Star Wars Day dates back to May 4, 1979, when Margaret Thatcher was elected as the first female Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. On that day, the Conservative Party placed an ad in a newspaper congratulating her on her victory, with the headline "May the Fourth Be With You, Maggie. Congratulations."
The phrase "May the Fourth Be With You" is a play on the iconic line "May the Force be with you" from the Star Wars movies, and it quickly caught on as a way for Star Wars fans to celebrate their love for the franchise.
In 2011, the first organized Star Wars Day celebration took place in Toronto, Canada. The event featured screenings of Star Wars movies, costume contests, and other Star Wars-themed activities.
Since then, Star Wars Day has become a global phenomenon, with fans around the world celebrating on May 4th every year. The day is now officially recognized by Lucasfilm, the production company behind the Star Wars movies, and many retailers and businesses offer special promotions and discounts on Star Wars merchandise and events.
In addition to being a fun way for fans to celebrate their love for Star Wars, Star Wars Day also serves as a reminder of the impact that the franchise has had on popular culture. From the iconic characters to the memorable quotes and music, Star Wars has become an enduring part of our collective imagination, and Star Wars Day is a testament to its lasting legacy.
What’s Coming Out on Star Wars Day 2023?
Although Star Wars Day originally started as a fan celebration, it has now become an official event for the franchise, with premieres and product launches. Check out the list below to see what is being released on May the Fourth this year:
LEGO Star Wars
LEGO Star Wars is launching new products to commemorate Star Wars Day. One of the newest Ultimate Collector Series sets is the X-Wing Starfighter, which includes an updated wing and engine design and a new cockpit interior, with an RRP of £209.99. The Endor Speeder Chase Diorama is LEGO's 40th-anniversary set and costs £69.99. The Executor Super Star Destroyer, available for £59.99, is a detailed replica of Darth Vader's personal flagship. For younger fans, the Pirate Snub Fighter set includes stud shooters, a thermal detonator, and minifigures of Vane and Snub Fighter Pilot, priced at £29.99.
Star Wars: Visions Volume 2
The second volume of the anime anthology series Star Wars: Visions will debut exclusively on Disney+ on May 4, 2023. Volume 2 will showcase nine brand-new shorts from nine studios around the world, each with their unique animation style and cultural influences, building on the success of the Emmy Award-nominated first run of Star Wars: Visions in 2021. The new shorts will depict each filmmaker's specific vision of the Star Wars universe, promising an exciting addition to the franchise. The list of episodes includes:
- Sith
- Screecher’s Reach
- In the Stars
- I am Your Mother
- Journey to the Dark Head
- The Spy Dancer
- The Bandits of Golak
- Aau’s Song
- The Pit
Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures Animated TV Series
Get ready for a heartwarming adventure as Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures, the latest animated series, makes its way to Disney+ and Disney Junior on May 4. Designed for preschoolers and early-grade children, this colorful and imaginative series offers a fun and engaging introduction to the magical world of Star Wars. Join the young Jedi as they embark on their exciting journey in a galaxy far, far away.
Disney Home’s Star Wars Range
Disney Home is offering Star Wars enthusiasts the opportunity to infuse their living spaces with their beloved franchise. The collection includes a Grogu wallpaper, a Star Wars-themed light shade, a Stormtrooper fleece blanket, and a Darth Vader cushion. The full lineup of the May 4 collection will be available for purchase at Dunelm and is sure to have something for everyone.
Funko’s Tabletop Game
Funko Games is set to launch an exciting new collectible card game that challenges players to outwit their opponents by utilizing their characters’ unique abilities to conquer the most territories. Although the cards will reportedly debut on May 4 in the US, it's yet unclear whether they will also be released in the UK. However, the Premier Set and booster packs are already listed in the "Coming Soon" section for Europe, so fans can hope for a release soon.
Carrie Fisher’s Hollywood Walk of Fame Star
Carrie Fisher, the beloved Star Wars actress who portrayed Princess Leia, will receive a posthumous star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Her star will be located on Hollywood Boulevard, close to El Capitan Theatre, and will be unveiled on May 4, joining the stars of her fellow Star Wars cast members, Mark Hamill and Harrison Ford. Fisher's daughter, actress Billie Lourd, will be accepting the honor on her mother's behalf.
Anticipated Promotions for Star Wars Day 2023
Star Wars is one of the most beloved franchises in the world, with millions of fans across generations. From the iconic characters and epic storylines to the fantastic universe that George Lucas created, Star Wars has captured the imagination of fans around the globe.
And with such a massive following, it's no surprise that there's a huge amount of merchandise available for fans to collect and enjoy. May 4 a highly anticipated day for Star Wars enthusiasts as a number of brands reveal new, exclusive merchandise. These include major toy manufacturers such as Hasbro and LEGO, as well as fashion brands like Adidas, Columbia, and Loungefly. Other companies such as Citizen and Topps also release limited-edition Star Wars collectibles to mark the occasion.
While LEGO is one of the most prominent brands with special Star Wars promotions on May 4th, several other brands have also announced their participation in the celebration of Star Wars Day with their own promotions and releases. Here are some UK retailers that will be hosting special promos this year:
- Amazon UK: Get special offers on the Amazon Deal of the Day on select Star Wars toys, apparel, and more! Offer valid May 4.
- Disney Shop UK: Free Star Wars Mystery Box with code “GROGU." Offer ends May 9.
- LEGO: Purchases of £130 or more will receive the Death Star gift. Offer lasts May 1 - May 7.
- Funko and Loungefly: Enjoy up to 50% off Star Wars merchandise or buy 3 Star Wars Funko and Loungefly items at full price and get the fourth one free. Offer lasts May 4 - May 7.
- EMP UK: Take advantage of discounts on Star Wars merch and clothes.
- Zavvi UK: Discover gifts mega deals and price drops on selected Star Wars items.
How to Celebrate Star Wars Day 2023
Star Wars Day is a fun and exciting time for fans of the franchise to come together and share their enthusiasm for the series, from hosting movie marathons to cosplaying as their favorite characters. If you'd like to join this beloved tradition for the first time, or you're already running out of ideas, here are some suggestions that fans of all ages and backgrounds can particpate in and enjoy.
- Host a Star Wars movie marathon: There's no better way to celebrate Star Wars Day than by watching the movies that started it all. Gather some friends or family members and settle in for an epic movie marathon. You can watch the movies in chronological order or release order, depending on your preference.
- Dress up in Star Wars costumes: Whether you're a Jedi Knight, a Sith Lord, or a Wookiee, dressing up in Star Wars costumes is a great way to show your love for the franchise. You can make your own costumes or buy them online, and don't forget to take plenty of photos to share on social media.
- Cook up some Star Wars-themed food: Get creative in the kitchen and whip up some Star Wars-inspired treats. You can make Yoda-shaped cookies, Princess Leia cupcakes, or even a Death Star cake. There are plenty of recipes online to choose from, so you're sure to find something that suits your taste.
- Play Star Wars games: Whether you prefer video games, board games, or card games, there are plenty of Star Wars-themed games to choose from. You can play games like Star Wars Battlefront, Star Wars X-Wing Miniatures Game, or Star Wars: The Card Game.
- Visit a Star Wars exhibit: If you're lucky enough to live near a museum or exhibit that features Star Wars memorabilia, be sure to check it out on May 4th. Many exhibits offer special discounts or events on Star Wars Day, so it's the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the Star Wars universe.
- Attend a Star Wars-themed event: From cosplay contests to trivia nights, there are plenty of Star Wars-themed events that take place on May 4th. Check online or with local event organizers to see if there are any events happening near you.
- Participate in Star Wars-themed activities: If you have kids, or if you're a kid at heart, there are plenty of Star Wars-themed activities to enjoy on Star Wars Day. You can make your own lightsabers out of pool noodles, create Star Wars-themed crafts, or play games like pin the lightsaber on the Jedi.
However you decide to celebrate Star Wars Day, forward2me is here to help you with a reliable international delivery. Shop unique merchandise, pre-order exclusive releases, and enjoy fanstastic discounts at your favorite retailers. If you're not sure what's trending right now, make sure to check out our special guide to the best Star Wars merchandise availabe in the UK and use your free address to complete your purchases. Happy shopping on May the Fourth and beyond!