May the 4th be with you:
How to Celebrate in Orlando
May 3, 2017
Most people are familiar with the traditional American holidays such as Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas etc. However, May 4th is one of the most nationally recognized and celebrated days across the entire world. What once started as a pun has turned into a full-fledged holiday known as Star Wars day.
Once a year, fans come together in honor of the famous film series to embrace their inner geek and observe the day in their own unique way. Some host laid back movie marathons while others dress up as their favorite characters and attend local events or social gatherings. Although, several places around the world mark the occasion, there are plenty of ways Floridians can embrace the day in Orlando too.
1) Create your own Star Wars Mocktail
If you’re hosting a party, then throw the ‘ol boring cocktails out the window. Have a little fun and create a few drinks that your guests will surely appreciate. Take the Greedo Fauxito for instance. It’s unique twist on the classic Mojito which consists of freshly squeezed lime juice, rum (wink, wink), a splash of lemon lime soda and a hint of fresh mint.
2) Build your own lightsaber
As if having a sword fight with sticks isn’t enough, building your own lightsaber will surly help you feel like a real Jedi. It doesn’t take much more than a few materials, tools and a can-do attitude to craft your very own light up sword.
3) Check out the Miniland display at Legoland
Embark on a journey through several different Star Wars scenes all made from more than 1.5 million little Legos pieces.
4) Get your lightsaber out and battle the crocks
In addition to gator week (May 1st – 6th), Wild Florida Air Boats will be encouraging guests to dress as “Darth Gator.”
5) Step into the zone at Disney World
Check out replica movie props, build your very own droid or take a 3D motion-stimulated journey through the Star Wars galaxy on a Star Tour. Explore the many Star Wars attractions that will bring you closer to the epic saga than ever before.
6) Visit the Oblivion Taproom
Enjoy Star Wars-themed food and drink specials, movies, trivia, stormtroopers and more. Located at 5101 E. Colonial Drive East in Orlando, Fl.
7) Pop in to a Disney store
Select Disney stores will be having a variety of events all throughout the day. From a Star Wars opening ceremony to defense training against stormtroopers and even learning to draw R2-D2 and BB-8, Disney stores are going to be the place to take the kiddos. Find participating stores here.
8) Stock up on Legos
An exclusive buildable R2-D2 will be included with a purchase of $50 or more. Children can also participate in Star Wars speed-building contests. Participants will receive a Hoth Han Solo and winners will get a Darth Revan mini figure.
9) Head down to the Sip and Stroll
Located at 2810 Corrine Drive, the Audubon Park Garden District hosts one of the most popular events in Orlando. The annual May 4th Sip and Stroll consists of craft beer, boutique wine, multiple shops and a whole lot of other Star Wars fans dressed for the occasion. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased here.
10) Have a Death Star cocktail at Taverna Opa
Taverna Opa’s Death Star Cocktail was inspired by the release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens. It’s the brainchild of Taverna Opa’s mixologist (and longtime Star Wars fan) Alex Attart. “I asked myself ‘What would Darth Vader drink?’” says Alex. It’s a popular cocktail on Star Wars Day, around new film releases and during Orlando’s many Star Wars conventions. Sip Carefully! The force is strong with this one… the cocktail packs a punch and may just convert you to the dark side.
BONUS: Make it yourself!
Ingredients
1 oz Jägermeister
1 oz triple sec
1 oz EG vodka
1 oz Jameson
2 oz sweet and sour mix
2 oz cola
Instructions:
Fill ‘Death Star’ ice sphere mold with purified water and freeze.
Place ‘Death Star’ ice sphere in wide-mouthed rocks glass.
Combine all liquid ingredients in a cocktail shaker. Shake and pour over ‘Death Star’ ice sphere.