May the Fourth Be With You
Richard Whittaker rounds up Star Wars events this Saturday
By Richard Whittaker, 9:00AM, Thu. May 2, 2024
My fellow Star Wars prequels defender here at the Chronicle, Richard Whittaker, has curated this event list: From pup parties to documentary screenings, karaoke to vendor markets, there'll be something for every Star Wars fan in Austin. – Calendar Editor James Scott
In the Lone Star Wars State
Bullock Texas State History Museum
Does Texas have the best Star Wars fans? That's what Alejandro Cabrera examines in his new documentary about how the Skywalker saga has found a particular home in the Lone Star State. From the joy of building your own Jedi costume to the moving story of how the fandom gathered around one of its own in his final days, Cabrera's film celebrates the best of those that follow the Force. Stick around after the screening for a Q&A and some very special guests. The Bullock is also providing Star Wars-themed craft tables to build your own Yoda ears, or you can just get your photo taken with Mandalorians, Jedi, or droids. Read our interview with Cabrera.
May the 4th Be With You Karaoke Party
Ego’s, the Canary Roost
Does anybody know the words to “Dual of the Fates”? Don’t panic if all you know is the dum-dum-dums from “The Imperial March”: You’re still welcome at either of these karaoke bases, both of which will be decorated in keeping with this most stellar of days. There’ll be themed cocktails, mocktails, cutouts for photo ops – and, of course, karaoke.
Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace
Alamo Drafthouse, AMC, Cinemark, Flix Brewhouse, Moviehouse and Eatery, Regal
It’s been 25 years since George Lucas got back behind the camera and started telling the story of how little Anakin Skywalker became Darth Vader. The Phantom Menace changed how we looked at one of cinema’s greatest villains, and also changed cinema, giving us the first ever fully realized CG character in Jar-Jar Binks. These special anniversary screenings bring his legendary epic back to the big screen. So strap into your podracer, practice your best Darth Maul snarl, and remember: Keep your lightsaber dark, silent, and in your pocket for the entire screening.
May the 4th Be With Y'all
Central Machine Works
This annual celebration of Star Wars doesn't have a light side and a dark side. But it does have afternoon activities for the kids, including a costume parade and contest, before becoming adults-only after dark with themed drinks, a lightsaber battle, and more. This year, nonprofit event organizers Silver Leg Creative are fundraising for SAFE Alliance, so get that $10 donation ready (and remember, Imperial credits are no good here).
Taylor Market Days: May the 4th Be With You
Taylor Old High
If you've ever seen a homemade Stormtrooper costume, you know that Star Wars fans are crafty. And if you're any kind of collector, you know that finding those classic toys is tougher than wrestling the ears off a Gundark. Luckily, the twice-monthly Taylor Market Days is celebrating Star Wars day this year with a special themed vintage and makers fair at Old Taylor High. Come in costume, take part in the lightsaber battle and jump to lightspeed on the Millennium Falcon bouncy house – oh, and there'll be 50 stalls to browse, as well as the best beer garden and cocktail bar this side of Oga’s Cantina.
The Empire Barks Back
The Brewtorium Brewery and Kitchen
The therapy dogs of Divine Canines are a force for good, with 110 teams who visit thousands of Texans of all ages to help with emotional, psychological, and cognitive issues of all kids. But who says they can't have some fun with all that great work? Kick off the month-long Barks for Beers fundraiser with this suitably-themed day party at the Brewtorium complete with stalls from the Austin Flea Market, themed food and drink, a fundraising raffle and, at 3pm, the Em-Paw-Rial March Dog Parade & Costume Contest. There’s no better time for your poodle to channel their inner Wampa! Don’t forget, there will be fundraising events and specials at 31 Austin breweries and brew pubs, all the way through May.
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