Star Wars day in Indianapolis brings special food, trivia nights and events on May the 4th

John Tufts, Indianapolis Star
·4 min read

A long time ago... May 25, 1977 to be precise, Lucasfilm along with 20th-Century Fox released an epic space opera at 43 movie theaters in a galaxy not so far away. Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope, was rereleased less than a year later on July 21, 1978. The film quickly became one of the biggest summer blockbusters of all time, surpassing Steven Spielberg's Jaws to gross $410 million in its initial worldwide run.

The franchise would go on to produce nine sequels and two standalone films, as well as popular TV shows like The Mandalorian and the Book of Boba Fett.

More: Watch 'More Than a Race,' our mini-documentary on how the Indy 500 defines our city

Phrases from the Star Wars universe have become so ingrained into our cultural fabric, that May the 4th (May the Force be with you), has become popularly known as Star Wars day. It's a time to let out your inner Jedi (or Sith, you monster), and celebrate all the things that happened in a galaxy far, far away.

Here are some ways you can celebrate May the 4th (be with you) in Indianapolis:

Party like a Rebel at Nevermore

  • Where: 302 S. Meridian Street

  • When: 8 p.m.-3 a.m.

  • What: Nevermore is hosting a Comic Convention Welcoming Weekend Kickoff. You can dress as your favorite comic book or Star Wars character and let loose with fellow fans. The event will feature indoor games, live music, and outdoor patio fun.

Drink 'Bantha milk' at Founders Grounds Coffee Company

Where: 1414 N Main St 2nd Floor, Speedway

When: 6:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

What: Founders Grounds Coffee Company in Speedway is celebrating May the 4th with Star Wars flights, which includes an Obi-Wan Cannoli. You can get a blue Bantha Milk, Cloud City Cold Brew, green Yoda Soda or a Light Saber Latte.

Nachos fit for a Jedi at Condado Tacos

Where: 530 Massachusetts Ave Suite 190, Indianapolis. 838 Broad Ripple Ave, Indianapolis. 12545 Old Meridian St, Carmel. 14165 Cabela Pkwy Suite 117, Noblesville.

When: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. (Check times for individual locations)

What: You don't have to lose a hand for a plate of good nachos. Condado Tacos announced its locations will be offering Skywalker Nachos, priced at $11, and made with rice, black beans, queso blanco, roasted chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, cilantro with onions, pickled jalapenos, corn salsa and house salsa.

May the 4th skate party at Skateland

Where: 3902 N Glen Arm Rd Indianapolis.

When: 6-9 p.m.

What: Parents can take their children to a May the 4th skating party at Skateland. Admission is $6. Skate rental is $5. Non-skating parents will be charged $3. You can dress up as your favorite Star Wars character. There will be Star Wars trivia, music from the movies and a meet-and-greet with Star Wars characters.

Trivia to stump a Jedi Master at Ash & Elm Cider Co.

Where: 2112 E Washington Street, Indianapolis

When: 7-9 p.m.

What: Ash & Elm Cider Co. is hosting a Star Wars-themed trivia night. So do or do not (strut your Star Wars knowledge), there is no try. But there is a chance to win prizes. Enjoy tasty themed treats while you play. Reservations are strongly recommended, according to the company. Call (317) 600-3164.

Take your little Padawan to plant a tree in Ellenberger Park

Where: 5301 E St Clair St, Indianapolis

When: 3:30 p.m.

What: May the Forest be with you. Keep Indianapolis Beautiful is hosting the last tree planting of the season at Ellenberger Park. While not exactly Star Wars-themed, it's still a nice thing to do. Plus, where will the Ewoks live without trees? Food will be delivered during the more than 2-hour event, according to organizers who said Vegan and Gluten Free options will be available.

Organizers said there will be an event starting during the planting and have asked participants not to park at the Ellenberger parking lot off of E St. Clair. The best parking will be on the south side of E Ellenberger Parkway East Drive on the grassy area that doesn't have houses.

Play Beat Saber and Sabacc at Tappers Arcade Bar

Where: 501 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis.

When: Begins 7:30 p.m.

What: You don't have to be a scruffy-looking nerf herder to enjoy a good round of Sabacc, a card game popularized by Star Wars characters Han Solo and Lando Calrissian. Who knows? Maybe you'll win yourself the Millennium Falcon like Solo did. Or not... Tappers Arcade Bar is celebrating Star Wars day with Sabacc and Beat Saber on Playstation VR. Raffle tickets with prizes are available for those who show up in costume. NOTE: Younglings won't be allowed into the establishment, which serves alcohol. Patrons must be age 21 and up to enter.

John Tufts covers evening breaking and trending news for the Indianapolis Star. Send him a news tip at JTufts@Gannett.com

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Celebrate Star Wars day in Indianapolis with food, trivia and more