May the fourth be with you: 9 facts to celebrate Star Wars Day

ORLANDO, Fla. — Whether you’re a young Padawan or a skilled Jedi, here is something to celebrate: Star Wars Day.

Star Wars Day is celebrated on May 4, which was chosen for film’s iconic the phrase “May the Force be with you.”

Here are nine facts to celebrate the special day:

1. There are nine episodes in the “Star Wars” saga. The first episode was released on May 25, 1977, which was “Star Wars: A New Hope.”

2. The first movie, “Star Wars: A New Hope," was originally called “Star Wars,” but the title was later changed to “Star Wars: Episode IV ‑ A New Hope” in 1981, according to Lucasfilm. The movie was then renamed again by Disney to “Star Wars: A New Hope,” dropping Episode IV from its title.

3. There are 11 Star Wars movies in total and several television series, including the newest series, “The Mandalorian.”

4. Walt Disney World and Disneyland both have an attraction land dedicated to the series, called “Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge."

5. At the theme parks, travelers take a trip to the planet Batuu, where they ride on two Star Wars-themed attractions.

6. The attractions opened in two phases. “Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run” opened during phase one, which allowed riders to take a trip on “the fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy.”

7. “Star Wars”: Rise of the Resistance opened in phase two. The attraction puts riders in the middle of a battle between the First Order and the Resistance.

8. In celebration of “Star Wars Day,” the “Queen’s Shadow,” a new book about Queen Amidala, will be available as free download from May 1-8. Click here to learn more.

9. Disney is releasing the final episode of the “Star Wars” saga, “Star Wars: Rise of Skywalker” on Disney+ on May 4 to celebrate the holiday.

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