A long time ago, in the galaxy where we live in right now, the first Star Wars film was released. It was predicted by naysayers to be a flop, but here we are 43 years later, celebrating one of the most popular sci-fi movies of all time.
Star Wars has gone from a geek favorite to an important part of pop culture. It is evidenced by fan websites, meet-and-greets, cosplays, and even dedicated attractions in Disney theme parks. In fact, the fanbase is one of the reasons why Star Wars has continued inspiring nerds for more than two decades already.
If you want to meet fellow fans, don your best Jedi cosplay, buy and swap collectibles, and just geek out on George Lucas’s brainchild, check out our list of Star Wars expos and exhibits that you can attend:
D23 Expo
When: To be announced
Where: Anaheim, California
The largest Disney fan event is also one of the ultimate expos for Star Wars fans. As of now, D23 Expo is canceled due to COVID-19, but it’s expected to make a comeback in 2021. The last expo was jam-packed with Star Wars costumes, panel discussions, sneak-peaks, and a whole lot more.
One of the main attractions during the expo was the exhibit on the evolution of the Stormtrooper uniforms. The stunning display allowed fans to learn and examine the details of the costumes from the first film until the latest ones. It was held at the Lucasfilm pavilion.
In the Disney+ pavilion, fans also got a closer look at the newest Star Wars live-action series, The Mandalorian. Some snippets of Star Wars merchandise were also available during the expo.
For the panel discussions, most of them tackled the new Disneyland theme area called Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Disney discusses how the amazing attraction was brought to life by some of the most talented people.
Star Wars Celebration
When: August 18-21, 2022
Where: Anaheim Convention Center, Anaheim, California
Star Wars Celebration is Lucasfilm’s official event to celebrate everything about the saga. You’ll be surrounded by fans of all ages who love the film just as much as you do. Plus, there are so many things to see and do within four days of fun-filled activities.
Cosplay enthusiasts can show up as their favorite characters and mingle with fellow fans on the interactive showroom floor. There are exhibits of various costumes from the show itself, as well as plenty of merchandise to be bought.
You’ll also get the chance to meet and shake hands with celebrity guests, filmmakers, and artists. There are panel discussions, autograph sessions, and photo ops.
Star Wars Identities: The Exhibition
Marvel at the life-sized models, props, costumes, and other film treasures in this traveling interactive exhibit. Star Wars Identities: The Exhibition features a huge collection of over 200 items from the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art. In its six-year world tour, it will stop in 12 cities so fans all over the world will get the chance to experience it.
One of the main features of this exhibit is that it enables fans to go on a journey of self-discovery. As you learn about the origins and story of Anakin and Luke Skywalker, you’ll also get the chance to reflect about your own identity.
The exhibit will ask you to reflect on this question: What forces shape you? And as you go around the exhibit, you’ll discover ten components of identity that will help you answer this question. At the end of your tour, you just might unearth the driving Force within you.
Fan Expo Dallas
When: May 14-16, 2021
Where: Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center, Dallas, Texas
Fan Expo Dallas is the go-to event for everything related to sci-fi, anime, comics, horror, fantasy, and gaming. It’s a jam-packed event filled with workshops and seminars hosted by professionals in the industry. You’ll also get to ask them questions and learn from the very best during the panel discussions.
There are autograph and meet-and-greet sessions as well, so be sure to bring something for your artists to sign. Plus, don’t miss out the chance to get photographed with your favorite celebrity.
Joining a Star Wars Expo
Are you in the business of fueling the passion of Jedis, Siths, and Padawans? Want to exhibit in a Star Wars Expo and give your business maximum exposure? Exhibiting in a Star Wars expo has plenty of benefits for you.
To help you set up your booth, call a company that specializes in trade show rentals in Las Vegas, like Aplus Expo. You can choose between renting a pre-made booth or have one custom-made for you. You can also have your marketing materials printed and designed by them. Plus, they can transport your booth to wherever the venue is, so you don’t have to worry about anything else.
Conclusion
It’s not enough to become a Star Wars fan alone. Attending expos and fan meets will allow you to meet people who share the same passion as you. Expos are also a great way to get exclusive insider information, sneak peeks, and merchandise. Best of all, you’ll have the chance to meet the celebrities that you’ve grown to love throughout these years.