We used to think “Star Wars Day” was a bunch of mumbo-jumbo. A magical faux-holiday celebrated on May 4, held together by a date-related pun, “May the 4th/Force be with you”? Crazy thing is…it’s true. “Star Wars Day.” May the 4th be with you. All of it. It’s all true.
So what, exactly, does one do on this galactic holiday that most decidedly is not Life Day? Yes, there are plenty of national deals, discounts, and sales on Star Wars-related stuff, but we decided to focus closer to home and round up a few local “Star Wars Day” events. Locations include Milwaukee proper and other nearby systems.
Miramar Theatre
One of the many triumphs of the J.J. Abrams-directed The Force Awakens was bringing back a spark of humor and life to a franchise that had spent its last three movies mulling trade negotiations and votes of no confidence in the senate. Similarly, the Brew City Comedy team will bring the funny with a special Star Wars-themed sketch show at Miramar Theatre. Mario Robinson will host, local sci-fi author and comedian Patrick Tomlinson will perform between sets, and The Bare Wellys will provide music. A $10 ticket for the 8 p.m. show also gets you a chance to win a $100 Lego Star Wars set, as well as a free drink at 42 Lounge or 42 Ale House on May 4 or May 5.
42 Lounge/Ale House
The nerd-friendly 42 empire is currently in the midst of a weeklong anniversary celebration, and May the 4th falls right in the middle of it. Nothing especially Star Wars-related is planned for 42 Ale House on May 4, but 42 Lounge promises a cantina theme, discounted Darth Maultinis, and the usual wretched hive of scum and villainy. If you’re looking to celebrate early, however, Rob Wieland (he of Milwaukee Record fame) will host a Star Wars trivia night at 42 Lounge the night of May 3.
Revel Bar
There’s more to Revel Bar’s Star Wars celebration than just trivia (which begins at 8 p.m., though it’s suggested you arrive a few parsecs early). A costume contest and music from DJ Zello will follow, and Star Wars movies will be screened throughout the night.
Karma Bar & Grill
Not enough Star Wars trivia competitions for you? Well, America’s Pub Quiz will be setting up shop at Karma for a night of questions that will likely delve into the rich backstories of Uncle Owen, Salacious B. Crumb, and Jek Porkins. The fun begins at 7 p.m.
Jack’s American Pub
More trivia! This time, Quizmaster Trivia will do the honors at 8 p.m. Costumes are encouraged, so dust off those Jedi robes and/or gold bikinis now.
Barnes & Noble (Brookfield)
Tabletop games are all the rage these days, but let’s face it: learning the intricacies of yet another Settlers Of Catan/Pandemic/Twilight Struggle/Whatever The Fuck can be daunting. Happily, the Brookfield Barnes & Noble will host a learn-to-play event for Star Wars fans looking to get into the insanely popular X-Wing miniature game. The training will begin at 7 p.m. Blast shields are optional.
St. Francis Public Library
Looking to get your 5th- through 12th-grader into Star Wars? Then why not dump them off at St. Francis Public Library at 2:15 p.m.? They’ll enjoy 45 minutes of Star Wars-related crafts, followed by a screening of The Force Awakens at 3 p.m. sharp. Portions Snacks will also be available for purchase.
Greenfield Public Library
This May the 4th celebration is strictly for the younglings, with Star Wars-themed games and activities, light saber practice, and a Death Star piñata. Aim for that exhaust port, kids.
Milwaukee Parkside School for the Arts
Let’s try biking to school on May the 4th! That’s a good trick!