May 4 is international “Star Wars” Day in honour of the pun on this date: “May the fourth be with you.”
In the movies the phrase “May the Force be with you” is used to wish an individual good luck and good favour with The Force.
Since it began in 1977, Star Wars, an epic space opera written and directed by George Lucas has built a deep connection with its fans.
May 4 is an unofficial holiday where fans get dressed up as Jedi, Stormtroopers, Wookiees and other characters. The event was not created by George Lucas or his company Lucasfilm, but is observed by fans around the globe.
According to Lucasfilm “May the Fourth be with you” was first used by Margaret Thatcher’s political party to congratulate her on her election on May 4th, 1979. The Conservative party placed an ad in the London Evening News which read, “May the Fourth Be With You, Maggie. Congratulations.”
However, the first celebration of May 4th took place much later, at the Toronto Underground Cinema in 2001. This first official Star Wars Day’s festivities included a costume contest and a movie marathon. Star Wars Day became so popular that the 5th of May is called "Revenge of the Fifth", a play on the Star Wars movie title Revenge of the Sith.
Art and Crafts and Teaching Ideas
The Star Wars site has lots of suggestions for May the 4th activities at home. Try making Yoda Pancakes! And they have regular SW-themed teaching suggestions too.
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