May the Fourth: Where to celebrate Star Wars Day 2024 in Phoenix

To paraphrase Darth Vader, May 4 will be a day long remembered. It's Star Wars Day, the unofficial and fan-created holiday celebrating the iconic sci-fi franchise, also known as May the Fourth (a playful pun on its famous catchphrase, "May the Force be with you").

For geeks, its an excuse to indulge their love of George Lucas’ intergalactic saga, dress up like Boba Fett or wield a lightsaber. For Lucasfilm and Disney, it a day to release new “Star Wars” content, collectibles and games. Local businesses also get in on the fun by hosting theme events like costume parties, dance parties or trivia sessions for prizes.

This year, Star Wars Day will be bigger than ever, and not just because its the 25th anniversary of 1999’s “Episode I: The Phantom Menace.” May the Fourth 2024 falls on a Saturday, which means there are more events than usual happening.

Here’s a look at how fans of the franchise, be they Sith lords or scruffy-looking nerf herders, can celebrate Star Wars Day throughout metro Phoenix in 2024. (All events will occur on May 4 unless specified otherwise.)

American Legion Post 138

107 E. Broadway Rd., Tempe
602-837-1247

Celebrate May the Fourth at this “Star Wars” party on Saturday evening, which will feature food and drinks, raffles, vendors and more. Local musicians Gabo Fayuca, JLG and Sadie Jane will perform. Start time is 4 p.m.

Arizona Athletic Grounds

21256 E. Pecos Rd., Queen Creek
480-572-0670

The fierce females of the Arizona Roller Derby will stage a pair of "Star Wars"-themed bouts on Saturday night. The first will feature a battle between the Jedi and Sith at 5:30 p.m. followed by the Rebels taking on the Empire at 7:30 p.m. Admission is $20 for adults and free for kids 10 and under.

Asylum Records

2990 N. Alma School Road, #5, Chandler
480-964-6301

Asylum Records will have a sale on all “Star Wars” items all weekend and feature an appearance by Margo Apostolos, the actress best known for playing Tokkat the Ewok in “Return of the Jedi,” from noon to 7 p.m. on May 4 and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on May 5. Photo with the actress will be available for $10 and autographs are $40.

Bricks and Minifigs

Multiple locations

Plastic playthings have been a big part of Star Wars fandom ever since the first Kenner action figures were produced back in 1978. So it's only fitting that every Valley location of the Bricks and Minifigs chain, which specializes in Lego products, will celebrate May the Fourth. Activities will vary by store but each will offer the chance to build the chain’s exclusive “Bricksaber.” Costumed are encouraged. Hours are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Bookmans Entertainment Exchange

8034 N. 19th Ave.
602-433-0255
1056 S. Country Club Drive, Mesa
480-835-0505

Both of the Valley’s Bookmans locations will host "Star Wars"-inspired activities from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. Highlights include giveaways, in-store contests, costumes, and an appearance by the Dune Sea Garrison cosplay group. Customers can also take advantage of a special deal where they can buy three items and get the fourth one free. More details on each event are available here.

The Casual Pint

4626 N. 16th St.
623-398-3636

The central Phoenix location of The Casual Pint has a full day of “Star Wars” festivities planned on May the Fourth. Movies from the saga will screen from open to close and a pair of themed beers (Red Leader and Lite-Saber) on tap and a special Mangolorian mead available for purchase. Vendors will be onsite from 2 to 5 p.m., and every patron will receive a free raffle ticket (prizes include glass and Lego sets). Additionally, anyone in costume will receive a free gift. A “Star Wars” trivia session starts at 9 p.m..

Cesar Chavez Public Library

3635 W. Baseline Road
602-262-4636

Local younglings can enjoy such activities as a “Star Wars” story time, photo ops with costumed characters and a lightsaber-making session at this south Phoenix library. Hours are from 2 to 4 p.m. Admission is free.

Cobra Arcade Bar

801 N. Second St., #100
602-595-5873

Come as your favorite character to Cobra Arcade Bar’s annual “May the 4th Be With You” party on Saturday from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. Local DJs Yellawave, Clavo and Mane One will be dropping cuts from behind the decks. It's the kind of party where those hipster-y Tatooine bikers from “The Book of Boba Fett” might hang out. Admission is free.

Collectors Choice/Justice Comics

1805 E. Elliot Road, #101, Tempe
480-471-8299

Model and actress Michonne Bourriague, who famously appeared as Palliduvan bounty huntress Aurra Sing in “The Phantom Menace,” is scheduled to appear at the Tempe comic book store from noon to 5 p.m. Prices are $40 for single autographs or selfies or $75 for both. There’s also a $5 admission free and a free certificate of authenticity is included.

Collectors Marketplace

4031 N. 24th St., Suite A
480-442-1117

Customers who purchase “Star Wars” items at Collectors Marketplace on May 4 — including any the vast army of toys, games and collectibles — can get a Funko Pop of Boba Fett from “The Book of Boba Fett” for $5. There will be a limit of one per customer as quantities are limited. Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

click to enlarge

It's kind of always Star Wars Day at ComicX.

Benjamin Leatherman

ComicX

21001 N. Tatum Blvd., #95
480-306-6780

"Star Wars" is one of the many fandoms celebrated at this geeky Desert Ridge Marketplace eatery, as evidenced by the life-size R2-D2 and Darth Vader statues you’ll encounter inside. Patrons are encouraged to dress in costume while dining and drinking on May 4 and 5. Hours are from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

DanceWise Dance Studio

5555 N. 7th St., Suite 112
602-493-6595

Bring your costume and dancing shoes to DanceWise Dance Studio on May 4th for a special "Star Wars" and sci-fi social dance event. Beginning and intermediate tango classes will be held at 7:00 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. respectively, followed by an open social dance party from 8:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Admission is $15 for both the classes and dance party, or $10 for just the party. More details are available here.

Discover Mercantile

3241 E Shea Blvd.
602-492-4797

The folks at this curated thrift store in north Phoenix will offer a 40% discount storewide from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday in honor of May the Fourth (some exclusions may apply). You won’t find a better deal this side of Mos Eisley.

Endgame

1233 S. Alma School Road, Mesa
480-331-1809

The synth is strong with Vyce, Heretic G and the 13 other local DJs who will perform during the “Star Wars” rave, Revenge of the Synth from 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. on Saturday. Three themed stages are planned, each focusing on various subgenres of synth. Lightsabers and cosplay is encouraged and themed cocktails and a midnight costume contest are planned. Tickets are $15.

Flatiron Community Park

100 N. Apache Trail, Apache Junction
480-983-2181

The latest edition of Apache Junction’s monthly “Movies in the Park” event series will screen 2018’s “Solo: A Star Wars Story” on May 4. The free event blasts off at 6:30 p.m. and attendees can get photos with the Dune Sea Garrison cosplay group. The film starts at 7:30 p.m.

Kitsune Brewing Company

3321 E. Bell Road
602-245-8593

According to Kitsune’s social media, its resident brewmeisters are promising to release “a bunch of beers” on Saturday in honor of May the Fourth. (In previous years, they’ve come up with some clever craft concoctions paying tribute to the “Star Wars” saga, including the Raspberry Blue Sour Bantha Milk and a Grogu-inspired green sour.) Other activities at Kitsune include a free “Star Wars” trivia session at 2:30 p.m. and a themed “paint ‘n’ sip” session from 5 to 7 p.m. The latter costs $40 per person and includes supplies, a canvas and a free beer. Kitsune will be open from noon to 9 p.m.

The Joy Lush Club

24 W. Camelback Road, Suite D and E
602-314-5989

If snapping together “Star Wars” Lego sets while enjoying local craft brews sounds like an ideal way to spend May the Fourth, set course for The Joy Luck Club on Saturday evening. The stylish drinkery will host a special edition of its “Bricks & Brews” event starting at 6 p.m. Tickets are $48 and include a “Star Wars” Lego kit, a pint of Dark Sky beer and a meal from Stoop Kid.

The Lola

6770 N. Sunrise Blvd., #109, Glendale
623-877-5225

Learn how to craft Baby Yoda and lightsaber-themed alcoholic beverages from The Lola's skilled drink Jedis at a special "Star Wars" cocktail class from 4 to 6 p.m. on Saturday. The $30 registration fee includes a complimentary drink, both cocktails you'll create during the class, a take-home glass, and cocktail kits.

Myke's Pizza and Cider Corps Taproom

31 S. Robson, #103, Mesa
480-687-8526

Myke's will celebrate May the Fourth on Saturday with pizzas and desserts inspired by “Star Wars,” including the potato and bacon-laden Darth Tater ($23) and the Padme Melt with meatballs, roasted onions and three cheeses. Anyone in costume who orders pizza will receive a Millenium Falcon-shaped dark chocolate, a $5 Myke’s gift card and a sticker (while supplies last). Meanwhile, the Cider Corps Taproom will have themed ciders The Mangolorian and Darth Maulberry available in 32-ounce cans. Hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The Neighborhood Comedy Theatre

214 W. Main St., Mesa
602-374-5638

Attendees of NCT’s Star Wars Galactic Showdown: Jedi vs. Sith Comedy Battle on Saturday can get involved with the action of the interactive event. The audience will be asked to throw out “imaginative suggestions” of the “Star Wars” variety, which will help decide whether the Jedi or Sith “reigns supreme in the universe of comedy. Laugh it up, fuzzball. The all-ages event starts at 7:30 p.m. General admission tickets are $15.

The Nile Theater

105 W. Main St., Mesa
480-494-7580

Get the jump on “Star Wars” Day when costumed metal band Galactic Empire invades The Nile Theater on May 3. The costumed quintet — featuring such members as Bass Commander, Boba Sett and Shadow Ranger — perform rip-roaring metal renditions of music from the saga while wearing getups inspired by the films. Varkan and Arsenic Kitchen open. The all-ages show is at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $25.

Paw Wars Dog Party

821 N. Fifth Ave.

Canine cosplay is encouraged at this “Star Wars” dog party from 4 to 8 p.m. on Saturday. It will feature a costume contest, a taco truck, dog treat tastings, vendors, a beer tent, photo ops and more. Click here for more details.

Pigtails Cocktail Bar

21001 N. Tatum Blvd., #46-1405
480-500-5358

This Desert Ridge Marketplace drinkery will host Art & Cocktails: "Star Wars" Edition from 4 to 7 p.m.. Themed drinks will be served and artist Cinque Smith will display works inspired by “Star Wars” while creating a live painting throughout the evening. Several pieces will also be raffled off. Tickets are $45 each and include two cocktails and a raffle ticket.

The Playa II Bar and Grill

3217 E. Shea Blvd.
602-788-0679

You will never find a more colorful hive of scum and villainy than at this north Phoenix dive at 32nd Street and Shea Boulevard, particularly during its 21-and-over “Star Wars” costumed karaoke from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. on May 4. There will be a contest where the best-costumed singer will win a $30 bar card.

The Rebel Lounge

2303 E. Indian School Road

Embrace your inner Kylo Ren and indulge your mopey and moody side during a special May the 4th edition of EmoNightPhx at The Rebel Lounge. DJ Sad & Boujee will be in the mix and “Star Wars” cosplay is encouraged. The event starts at 9 p.m. Admission is $10 in advance and $15 at the door.

Sanctuary Games

1055 N. Dobson Road, Suite 103, Mesa
602-653-5112

Think sabacc is a competitive card game? It’s nothing compared to the intensity unfolding during the “Star Wars: Unlimited” tournament on Saturday at Sanctuary Games. Each participant will receive an OP pack from the popular trading-card game during the tournament with the top prize winner nabbing a full “Spark of Rebellion” booster box and a showcase Jyn Erso card. Registration is at 10 a.m. and the competition begins at 11 a.m. The entry fee is $30 per person. More details are available here.

SanTan Spirit House

8 S. San Marcos Place, Chandler
480-917-8700

The intergalactic festivities at SanTan Spirit House won’t be limited to one day. Patrons can paint ceramic items inspired by “Star Wars” for $35 per person or build a Lego set for $45 per person on either Saturday for May the Fourth or Sunday (a.k.a. Revenge of the Fifth). There’s a two-drink minimum.

Scale and Feather Meadery

1050 N. Fairway Drive, Building E, Suite 112, Avondale
623-440-8931

Raise a toast to May the Fourth at Scale and Feather’s celebration from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday. During the event, its staff will debut The Mangolorian, a special mango habanero and green tea mead. A 21-and-over “Star Wars” costume contest will take place at 4 p.m. Admission is free.

Scottsdale Mustang Library

10101 N. 90th St., Scottsdale
480-312-7323

Bring your padawan to this Scottsdale Public Library location from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Saturday for its kid-focused “Star Wars” event, which will include storytelling, crafting and more. It’s free to attend but space is limited. Attendees are asked to visit the youth desk prior to the event to get a ticket.

Six Byrd Cider Co.

3619 E. Indian School Rd.
602-607-5478

Are you as wise as Master Yoda when it comes to facts and tidbits about that galaxy far, far away? Attend Six Byrd’s “Star Wars” trivia event at 7 p.m. on Saturday and you could win prizes and bragging rights. It’s free to participate and registration is available here.

Sunbar

24 W. 5th St., Tempe
480-687-8409

Tempe nightspot will transform into an intergalactic nightlife destination during the May the 4th Be With You dance party on Saturday night. Local DJs will dress as “Star Wars” characters — including Edward Joseph as Han Solo, Casti and Princess Leia and Medicine Mike as Darth Vader — as they fire off a cannonade of electrified beats more fierce than a battery of turbolasers. Doors open at 9 p.m. Admission is free before 10 p.m. with an online RSVP and $7 thereafter.

Thundercat Lounge

747 W. Van Buren St.
602-789-3600

DJ Darth Vader will use the dark side of the Force to unleash a killer dance music mix during May the 4th: Star Wars rave at Thundercat Lounge from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. LaDell Ransom and NOOD will also perform, drink specials will be offered and a costume contest is planned. Admission is $5.

Tres Leches Cafe

1714 W. Van Buren St.
602-368-1804

Help put the “art” in Darth Vader at the Dia De los “Star Wars” Paint and Sip on May 4 at Tres Leches Cafe. Attendees can create paintings of either the Sith Lord or an Imperial Stormtrooper during the event, which takes place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tickets are $40 and include art supplies, instruction and a free coffee. All ages and skill levels are welcome and a stencil will be provided. Early arrival is recommended.

The Westin Tempe

11 E. Seventh St., Tempe
480-968-8885

The hotel's Skysill Rooftop Lounge will celebrate May the Fourth on Saturday from 6 to 10 p.m. with a costume competition, “Star Wars” movie screenings and DJs. Themed alcoholic beverages will also be available. Tickets are $15 per person and include a cocktail.