Star Wars: MLB teams take part in May the Fourth celebration
With the May the Fourth, it’s not just fans celebrating, but professional sports teams enjoy Star Wars with special-themed nights.
Star Wars-themed nights have made their way into the MLB, NHL and NBA. What has lead Star Wars and sports to collide together?
Well that is easy, many people love sports and Star Wars. It is a match made in nerd heaven.
More from Editorial
- How animation changed Star Wars: Ewoks and Droids
- The Acolyte might change Star Wars storytelling
- No Star Wars for Feige, and I’m ok with that.
- 3 major ways the Star Wars Holiday Special changed canon
- If Jon Favreau remakes the Holiday Special, it needs to star Peli Motto
Darth Vader, Stormtroopers, even Boba Fett have been seen in and around sporting venues, drawing hug from crowds. The franchise means so much to so many people it seems to seamlessly fit together. The themed nights are typically billed as family night in three of the four professional North American sports outfits.
There is something about the movies that are about redemption that translates to sports teams who lose and look for redemption in their next game. During special Star Wars nights, players and coaches are dressed in themed jerseys, which are usually auctioned off for charity.
Both Star Wars and sports have heroes to cheer for and villains to boo. It seemed to have started in minor league baseball with tickets became tough to come by as they celebrated the franchise The professional leagues took notice. The joined in. Leading to pure joy.
Seeing C-3PO and Chewbacca walk out onto a field brings all kinds of cheers. Fans have even compared players and coaches to characters from the famous films. Proving the movies are for everyone.
If you have never been to a themed night, do yourself a favor and make plans to attend. Just check your favorite teams promo night, it will be listed there. It is a great time and a new way to feel the Force.
Here’s a look at some of the pics from celebrations around MLB through the years.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – MAY 04: A Boston Red Sox fan holds a sign on Star Wars Day before the game between the Chicago White Sox and the Boston Red Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field on May 04, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by David Banks/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY – MAY 04: Director Ron Howard throws out the ceremonial first pitch before the game between the New York Yankees and the Cleveland Indians at Yankee Stadium on May 4, 2018 in the Bronx borough of New York City. Tonight is Star Wars night at Yankee Stadium. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL – OCTOBER 13: Chris Macht of Gilberts, Illinois, stands in front of Wrigley Field while dressed as Star Wars character Bobba Fett before Game Four of the National League Divisional Series between the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals on October 13, 2015 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jon Durr/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – MAY 04: A young fan adorns a mask on Star Wars Day before the game between the Chicago White Sox and the Boston Red Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field on May 04, 2019 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by David Banks/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NY – MAY 04: R2D2 is on the field prior to the game between the New York Yankees and the Cleveland Indians for Star Wars night at Yankee Stadium on May 4, 2018 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Usually, the teams have great giveaways too like special bobbleheads.
Next. Star Wars: 15 of the best character introductions. dark
Have you ever been to a themed night? Tell us about your experience.