May the 4th marks the national celebration of one of the most famous franchises. Whether you’re a fan of the cult classic franchise or not, there is plenty of fun to be had celebrating Star Wars Day in and around Philadelphia. Here are a few of the unique and fun ways to embrace the force this year.
Hen Solo launches in Manayunk
Ahead of the holiday, Philly chef Dean Leevongcharoen unveiled a brand new Star Wars-themed restaurant. Appropriately dubbed Hen Solo, Leevongcharoen serves up mouth-watering chicken-based meals from cutlets to tenders, cube-cut cheesesteaks, wings and more served alongside some out-of-this-world sauces and toppings. With a menu featuring plenty of plays on familiar names for force-sensitive fans, there are plenty of reasons to stop by Hen Solo on Star Wars Day, both for the food and the fanfare.
“Star Wars is about adventure, unexpected heroes, and epic journeys,” said Leevongcharoen. “That’s what I want each Hen Solo dish to feel like — an unforgettable, craveable adventure on your plate.”
4351 Main St., hensolo.com.
Lincoln Mill Star Wars Haunted House
Fans of the famous franchise will have a unique, one-night-only opportunity to experience the Dark Side in a new way with a pop-up event at the Lincoln Mill Haunted House on Saturday, May 3. Those brave enough to travel into the darkness will experience a fusion of sci-fi and horror in a terrifying event featuring live scare-actors, production-quality sets, animatronics, and special effects at Darkness Rising, a Star Wars-inspired haunted house.
As the story goes, “A long time ago, in a town not so far away, there was a textile mill with a hidden chamber below, sealed for over a century. When the seal was broken an unnatural presence spread through the mill, unleashing spirits that have long been trapped. The mill owner, Darth Kane, has risen and is searching for new souls to claim. All who dare to enter must navigate the hidden chamber, avoiding his vengeful workers and resist the suffocating pull of the Dark Side.”
Certainly not for any Jedi faint of heart.
“Last year, we planned on doing our Halfway to Halloween event in early May and the first Saturday happened to fall on the 4th of May, also known as Star Wars day. As a Star Wars Fan, it seemed too good an opportunity to put a twist on the Lincoln Mill story and to offer a Star Wars-inspired horror experience. This is the first ever Star Wars-inspired haunted house!” said Lincoln Mill Haunted House co-founder Jared Bilsak. “We had a great response and turn-out — and we are thrilled to be back with a new update to the idea for 2025 with Darkness Rising.”
4100 Main St., lincolnmillhaunt.com.
New Hope Star Wars Day
For the second year in a row, the Greater New Hope Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual New Hope Star Wars Day celebration on Saturday, May 4. From noon to 4 p.m., downtown New Hope will transform into a portal bringing the galaxy far, far away to life with iconic Star Wars franchise characters being found all throughout New Hope.
Characters are presented courtesy of Garrison Carida, the world’s premier Star Wars costuming organization, and a volunteer-based group dedicated to spreading joy through costuming. You can find them at more than a dozen well-known New Hope establishments, including Ferry Market, Fran’s Pub, Green House New Hope, Logan Inn, John and Peter’s, and much more. There will also be local businesses joining in on the event with Star Wars-themed cocktails, a costume contest, sales, events, and specials, creating a vibrant, immersive experience for visitors.
The New Hope Star Wars Day character activation is family-friendly for younglings to Masters and open to the public. There is no charge to come out and take over Main Street. Food, drink, and shopping are pay-as-you-go.
“This is our second year hosting Star Wars Day in New Hope, and it’s such a cool and exciting event that brings our community together in a fun, unique way, ” said Michael Sklar, President of the Greater New Hope Chamber of Commerce. “Seeing fans of all ages connect with these iconic characters and enjoy the creativity of our local businesses makes this day truly special.”
May the 4th be with you and your family this holiday season!
