Best Ways To Celebrate National Star Wars Day In Chicago

For fans of the epic film franchise Star Wars, May 4 has a special meaning. "May the Fourth be with you" is a humorous take on "May the Force be with you," one of the most memorable and often-quoted lines from the films. In turn, the date has become recognized as a way for fans to gather and celebrate the beloved movies. And in the Chicago area, there are plenty of places for fans. From a burlesque show to library events, take a look at what's on the schedule in 2016. Keep in mind that several events take place after May 4, and that some events are for adults only.

Learn about outer space in a big way with your family in honor of Star Wars Day. In addition to visiting Chicago's Adler Planetarium, you can also take a look at Cernan Earth and Space Center at Triton College in the suburb of River Grove. The center is home to several exhibits that focus on different aspects of space exploration. In addition, you can take a look at the special programs on the schedule throughout the month, including the monthly skywatch. For a full schedule of skywatches and public star parties, take a look at the center's website.

You don't have to travel to Coruscant to buy just the right costumes and accessories for Star Wars Day. Instead, make your way to Fantasy Costumes in Chicago's Portage Park neighborhood and check out the selection of wigs, costumes, masks and other accessories available for purchase. Costumes and accessories are available in sizes for children and adults, so you can find something for everyone in your family. Maybe you already have a complete costume, but need just the right wig or makeup to complete the look. Not to worry, as Fantasy Costumes carries an assortment of wigs, beards, makeup, and even just the right materials for wounds and scars.

Here's something you likely don't see every day. The show "A Nude Hope: A Star Wars Burlesque" will be held at Gorilla Tango Theatre in Chicago's Bucktown neighborhood. The 60-minute show is a parody of the beloved film franchise and has received warm reviews from critics. "A Nude Hope" runs on Saturdays at 9 p.m., and the next performance is May 7. The show has partial nudity and is for ages 18 and up; group sales are also available. Gorilla Tango Theatre has several other burlesque shows on the calendar, including "Ghostbusty: A Ghostbusters Burlesque."

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Celebrate May 4 in style when you make your way to SFCO (formerly known as Geek Bar), located in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood. A specialty cocktail menu will be available on Star Wars Day, with drinks including Attack of the Cloves, Dark Side, and Han Shot First on the menu. If you have a cool costume devoted to your favorite Star Wars character, then feel free to show it off. SFCO will give a discount of 10 percent off a guest's bill if they come in cosplay.

Show off your love for all things Star Wars when you visit Tavern on Little Fort in Chicago's Northcenter neighborhood. Show off your most menacing impersonation of Darth Vader's voice or your best Wookie howl for a chance to win a prize during a contest on May 4 starting at 8 p.m. The bar will also serve up some themed cocktails in honor of the occasion, including the Skyy-Walker Martini, Wookie Sour, and a Kylo-politan. Costumes are allowed, too, so feel free to dress up as your favorite character.

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