NORFOLK, Va. — You’ve seen the original classics: "A New Hope," "The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi."
Those quintessential films sparked the recording of eight other movies and several popular TV shows. They also inspired countless novels and a plethora of video games.
And they’re the reason why May 4th has become the unofficial, national holiday of Star Wars.
Use of the phrase, "May the Fourth Be With You" has a surprisingly long history dating back to 1978, one year after the first film’s release. But it didn’t become a recognized celebration until the turn of the century. The rise of the internet led to social media, then hashtags, and Star Wars Day shaped into an annual tradition.
If you’re looking to celebrate the holiday this year, Hampton Roads has plenty of options for you.
You can enjoy the music of Star Wars at the Ferguson Center for Performing Arts in Newport News. A few tickets are still available to hear all your favorites from the movies’ scores, live via the Virginia Symphony.
In Chesapeake, you can pose for a Star Wars-inspired family portrait session at Storybook Studios.
Head over to Dave & Busters in Virginia Beach for an outer space breakfast on Saturday morning. There will be character meet and greets with Darth Vader and a stormtrooper, and face painting, too.
In Norfolk, dress in your favorite Star Wars costume and show up at Afterglow Brewing for its May the Fourth Be With You event. Expect Star Wars music, themed food, and plenty of food trucks and beer to wash it all down.
However you choose to celebrate Star Wars Day, just remember "May the 4th" be with you!