Every year on May 4th, fans around the world unite to celebrate Star Wars Day, an unofficial holiday packed with memes, movie marathons, merchandise drops, and events that honor one of pop culture’s most iconic franchises.
But where did it all start? And why do people say, “May the 4th be with you”?
What Is Star Wars Day?
Star Wars Day is a fan-created celebration dedicated to the beloved science fiction saga. The pun “May the 4th be with you” — a play on the franchise’s iconic phrase “May the Force be with you” — gave rise to the holiday. Though not officially recognized, the day has become so widely acknowledged that even world leaders and global brands participate. 
In recent years, public figures like President Joe Biden and various organizations, including political administrations, have acknowledged Star Wars Day with themed appearances and memes. For fans, it’s a lighthearted, nostalgic way to express their love for George Lucas’s galaxy-spanning saga.
How Did Star Wars Day Begin?
The phrase “May the 4th be with you” first emerged in the late 1970s, shortly after the original Star Wars film debuted in 1977. One of the earliest documented uses came in 1979, when a British newspaper used it to congratulate Margaret Thatcher on becoming Prime Minister on May 4.
Despite some fans also recognizing May 25 — the anniversary of Star Wars: A New Hope’s 1977 release — as a more “canon” Star Wars Day, it’s the pun-filled May 4th that has gained massive global traction. In 2007, the Los Angeles City Council declared May 25 as the official Star Wars Day, but by 2019, California’s legislature formally adopted May 4th as the date fans rally around.
How Has Star Wars Day Grown?
What began as a grassroots celebration among fans grew thanks to the rise of social media. The phrase “May the 4th be with you” spread rapidly online through memes, tweets, and themed content. Soon, major brands joined in — from Nissan and LEGO to Jameson Whiskey — with dedicated promotions, ads, and themed product releases.
In 2012, Disney acquired Lucasfilm and began actively participating in the celebration. The company now marks May 4th with:
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Exclusive merchandise drops
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Limited-time streaming releases on Disney+
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Special screenings and fan events
While the holiday’s popularity has exploded, not all fans are thrilled about the commercialization. Chris Taylor, Mashable editor and author of How Star Wars Conquered the Universe, humorously calls himself a “May the 4th grinch,” saying, “I love a good dad joke as much as anyone, but my God you can take it too far.”
Creative Celebrations Around the World
From large-scale brand activations to heartfelt fan tributes, Star Wars Day is now celebrated across the globe — in homes, theaters, schools, and even churches.
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In Germany, a Protestant congregation held a Star Wars-themed church service with members in costume and themed decorations.
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Major League Baseball teams, including the San Francisco Giants, embraced the holiday with Star Wars-themed games and giveaways — including a Logan Webb “Obi-Webb Kenobi” bobblehead.
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Bakeries have sold lightsaber-shaped cookies, and orchestras have performed Star Wars musical scores in concert halls.
How It’s Being Celebrated in 2025
This year’s Star Wars Day is packed with content and surprises. Here’s what fans can look forward to:
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Disney+ is premiering the new animated series Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld.
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Season 2 of Andor continues its run, deepening the lore of the Rebel Alliance.
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A new stand-alone Star Wars film, starring Ryan Gosling, has been announced for release in 2027 — adding to the excitement.
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Disney has also launched a fresh wave of Star Wars merchandise, including lightsabers, collectibles, and themed jewelry.
From casual fans to diehard Jedi, May the 4th has become a day where the Force unites the galaxy — one pun and movie marathon at a time.
Final Thoughts
Star Wars Day may not have started in a galaxy far, far away, but its impact is universal. Whether you’re tuning into a Disney+ premiere, attending a themed baseball game, or simply quoting Yoda with your morning coffee, there’s a place for everyone in this celebration of the saga.
And remember: May the 4th be with you. Always.
