Forget Christmas, New Year’s, the Fourth of July – even your birthday. Star Wars Day eclipses them all for truly devoted fans, and this year is no exception. LucasFilms celebrated the holiday with a sneak peak at extended footage to be released with the Blu-ray editions this September. But the excitement doesn’t end there: Here are the best ways to embrace your inner Jedi, stormtrooper, or bounty hunter. Just remember, hokey religions and ancient weapons are no match for a good blaster at your side, kid.
“It’ll be like old times, Luke. They’ll never stop us.”
Get comfortable – you’re about to revel in the majesty that is the entire Star Wars saga. That means you’ve got about six and a half hours of the Force in front of you. But that’s only if you stop at the original trilogy (and no one would blame you for quitting there). If you’re up to completing the series, get ready for an additional seven hours.
Of course if you’re celebrating the holiday, it’s safe to assume you’ve seen the films once or twice. Add a little intrigue and try to spot these Meta-Star Wars moments:
- In Episode IV: A New Hope, Luke calls out “Carrie” instead of “Leia” after the demise of the Death Star.
- In Episode VI: Return of the Jedi, Han Solo gets…a little friendly with Leia. Let’s just say he misses her shoulder in an attempt to help her.
- The very first shot of the Millennium Falcon reveals it’s missing a very important feature.
- In Episode IV: A New Hope, During the Sandpeople attack, C-3PO’s head is dented. The dent makes inconsistent appearances throughout the rest of the movie.
“You’re lucky you don’t taste very good.”
There is no shortage of Star Wars themed cookbooks available for the holiday. Wookiee Cookies: And other Galactic Recipes is one of our favorites and includes Mos Eisley Morsels, Hoth Chocolate, and Han-burgers. If that’s a little too gimmicky for you, you can get traditional with some Blue milk – also known as Bantha or Tatooine milk.
“In my experience, there’s no such thing as luck.”
The Star Wars Customizable Card Game has been labeled one of the most complicated games in existence and in the mid-90s was a top-selling CCG, bested only by Magic: The Gathering. If you can get your hands on a couple decks, decide who will be the Light Side and who will be the Dark Side, then let the games begin. First timers, be forewarned: It’s not a quick learn. But those with in-depth knowledge of the saga (better yet, anyone who’s read the books) will be rewarded for their obsession. Looking for something a little less in-depth? There are also Star Wars editions of Risk, Trivial Pursuit, and BattleShip.
If you prefer to celebrate alone, you’re in luck. Star Wars and comic book fans alike have something to celebrate Saturday, May 7 as it just so happens to be free comic book day. In honor of both holidays Dark Horse Comics is releasing a special Star Wars comic.
“You certainly have a way with people…”
Are you the only one in your group of friends who knew what today was? Does no one else understand why you say “I thought they smelled bad on the outside”? We know – it can be an isolating feeling. Being alone during the holidays is tough, there are various Star Wars meetups to be found. Disclaimer: Use your own discretion. If someone sounds like he wants to chain you to the ground in a metal bikini, run for the hills. Of course, you can always open your own chapter of the Church of the Jedi, and then you and your brethren can worship unto Skywalker together.