Star Wars Day

Star Wars Day History

Star Wars Day celebrates everything about the popular Star Wars franchise. On this day, fans engage in Star Wars-themed activities, host viewing parties of the movies and TV shows, and take to social media to share their fandom. The significance of Star Wars Day extends beyond simple fandom; it acknowledges the global impact of the Star Wars franchise on pop culture across various decades.

The origins of Star Wars Day dates back to 1979 but it wasn't until 2011 that it was officially celebrated, marked by gatherings and festivities hosted by Toronto's Underground Cinema in Canada. For Canadians, Star Wars Day has particular significance as Canadian actors have made notable contributions to the franchise, including Hayden Christensen who portrayed Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader. The event also supports the local economy, particularly the retail sector, as Star Wars merchandise sales experience a surge during this period.

In Canada, Star Wars Day is observed with special events including costume contests, trivia games, and community activities that unite Star Wars enthusiasts nationwide. The Royal Ontario Museum and Toronto's CN Tower have been known to run Star Wars-themed events, with the CN Tower previously showcasing a lightsaber illumination. Star Wars Day occurs on May 4th each year, coinciding with the pun on the famous catchphrase "May the force be with you" as "May the fourth be with you".

Facts about Star Wars Day

• According to the South China Morning Post, the Star Wars Saga franchise is worth more than $70 billion in 2022.
• $11 million were spent on the production of the first Star Wars movie, which generated $775.4 million in revenue.
• Many Canadian actors have lent their voices to the animated series, including Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels. Actor Matt Lanter, who voiced Anakin Skywalker in The Clone Wars, was born in Massillon, Ohio, USA, but moved to Canada when he was 8 years old and grew up in Vancouver.
• Canada has several active Star Wars fan clubs, including the 501st Legion - Badlands Garrison which is based in Alberta. Star Wars-themed activities are also a common feature of fan conventions like Fan Expo Canada and the Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Star Wars Day

Top things to do in Canada for Star Wars Day

• Binge watch the Star War movies.
• Dress up as a Star Wars character. Challenge your friends to do it too.
• Check out the Star Wars exhibit today at the Telus World of Science in Edmonton, Alberta.
• Take a trip to the Star Wars Experience at the Ontario Science Centre, located in Toronto.