May 4

May 4 is considered a holiday by Star Wars fans to celebrate the franchise’s films series, books and culture. The date was chosen as “May the 4th” due to its sounding similar to the series’ phrase “May the Force be with you” in which fans commonly say “May the fourth be with you”.

History

The reference was first used on May 4, 1979, the day Margaret Thatcher took office as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. Thatcher’s political party, the Conservatives, placed a congratulatory advertisement in The London Evening News that stated “May the Fourth Be with You, Maggie. Congratulations.” This reading of the line has also been recorded in the UK Parliament‘s Hansard.

In 2011, the first organized celebration of Star Wars Day took place in Toronto, Ontario, Canada at the Toronto Underground Cinema. Produced by Sean Ward and Alice Quinn, festivities included an Original Trilogy Trivia Game Show; a costume contest with celebrity judges; and the web’s best tribute films, mash-ups, parodies, and remixes on the big screen. The second annual edition took place on Friday, May 4, 2012.

Fans (even government officials) have celebrated Star Wars in a variety of ways in social media and on television.

Since 2013, Disney Parks have celebrated the holiday with several Star Wars events and festivities. The Walt Disney Company had purchased Lucasfilm including the rights to Star Wars in late 2012.

Minor League baseball teams such as the Toledo Mud Hens and the Durham Bulls have worn special uniforms as part of “Star Wars Day” promotions.

Revenge of the Fifth

Star Wars Day became so popular that the following day was jokingly called “Revenge of the Fifth,” a play on the “Star Wars” movie title Revenge of the Sith.

On this day, fans let their “evil sides” come out by celebrating the Sith Lords and villains from the Star Wars series.

May 25

The Los Angeles City Council declared May 25, 2007, as Star Wars Day, in honor of the 30th anniversary release date of Star Wars. A separate initiative for observing Geek Pride Day on May 25 is based on the Star Wars connection along with ties to The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (see Towel Day) and Discworld.