Star Wars Day: Fans share creative costumes to mark May the Fourth

Anyone who is part of the Star Wars fandom, whether they’ve simply seen the films or have decked out their homes with Jedi paraphernalia, will know that 4 May is a significant date for fans across the globe.

The phrase “May the force be with you” was first uttered by General Dodonna in the 1977 film Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope, as Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo and co prepared for battle on the Death Star.

The catchphrase has since been said on multiple occasions by characters in the subsequent films, becoming one of the most famous lines in cinematic history.

Shortly after the first Star Wars film was released, the strong similarity between the phrase “May the force be with you” and “May the Fourth” was noted, with one of the earliest references being made in 1979 upon the news of Margaret Thatcher becoming prime minister. “May the Fourth Be with You, Maggie. Congratulations,” a Conservative Party advertisement read at the time.

However, it wasn’t until 2011 that a Star Wars Day event was organised on a larger scale, taking place in Toronto, Canada.

In 2013, Walt Disney Studios recognised Star Wars Day as an official celebration, a year after purchasing the production company behind the film franchise, Lucasfilm.

While Star Wars fans who planned on attending May the Fourth events this year will have had to cancel their plans, that hasn’t stopped cosplayers from sharing their most creative, meticulously-made costumes on social media in celebration of the day.

From the Mandalorian to Baby Yoda, here are some of our favourite costume creations:

Rey

As the protagonist of the Star Wars sequel trilogy, Rey has become a popular cosplay choice for fans since she first appeared on the silver screen in 2015.

The scavenger turned Jedi dresses in a practical manner, donning a robe, trousers and utility belt as she traipses across the universe in a galaxy far, far away.

Baby Yoda

Baby Yoda has become a firm fan favourite since appearing in the new Disney Plus series The Mandalorian.

One of the most memorable moments from the hit Star Wars series came in episode four, when baby Yoda stood sipping soup nonchalantly from a cup as he watched the Mandalorian in a fight with a potential adversary.

Ahsoka Tano

For this year’s Star Wars Day, Disney marked the occasion by releasing the final episode of Star Wars: The Clone Wars, an animated series that has been running for more than a decade.

Ahsoka Tano, a Padawan apprentice of Anakin Skywalker, is the series’ lead character, and as such holds a special place in the hearts of the show’s fans.

Poe Dameron

Portrayed by Oscar Isaac in the Star Wars sequel trilogy, Poe Dameron is a pilot for the Resistance who escapes capture in the first film with the help of former Stormtrooper Finn.

While this cosplayer is not in Poe’s X-wing fighter aircraft, they are decked out in the appropriate Resistance attire.

Princess Leia

One of the most treasured characters in Star Wars, Princess Leia’s journey in the film franchise saw her become a General in the later releases.

She was portrayed by Carrie Fisher, who passed away in 2016, a year before the release of Star Wars: The Last Jedi.

The Mandalorian

While the Mandalorian never removes his helmet in the Disney Plus series, he has proven popular among fans thanks to his strength of character, sharp-witted manner and masterful portrayal by Pedro Pascal.

These Star Wars cosplayers put on an impressive display recreating the Mandalorian’s hefty armour.

Stormtrooper

In the Star Wars universe, the ruthless Stormtroopers are highly feared, serving the powers in battle against the Resistance.

Nonetheless, these cosplayers made the Stormtroopers appear slightly more approachable.

Chewbacca

Who better to portray Han Solo’s hairy Wookie comopanion than a Chihuahua?

This dog even goes by the name Chewie the Wookie on Instagram, boasting more than 70,000 followers.

Kylo Ren

The son of Han Solo and Princess Leia, Kylo Ren was brilliantly played by Adam Driver in the Star Wars sequel trilogy.

This cosplayer ensured he included every minute detail of the character’s look, from his facial scar to his crossguard lightsaber.

Resistance pilot

This X-wing Resistance pilot looked ready to take to the skies in his costume, an outfit that was hand-sewn for Star Wars Day.

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