Star Wars
Star Wars Day is celebrated on 4 May Disney

What is Star Wars Day?

Star Wars Day is an unofficial holiday in May which celebrates one of the biggest pop culture phenomenon ever: Star Wars created by George Lucas.

The fourth of May is considered a holiday by Star Wars fans to celebrate the franchise's film series, books and culture. The date was chosen as "May the 4th" sounds similar to the series' popular quote "May the Force be with you", in which fans commonly say "May the fourth be with you."

The line "May the Force be with you", is spoken several times in the films by members of the Rebel Alliance (good guys) before they embark on a mission against the evil Empire.

Origins of Star Wars Day

The reference was first used on May 4, 1979 when Margaret Thatcher's political party placed an advertisement in The London Evening News following her taking office as Prime Minister that stated: "May the Fourth Be with You, Maggie. Congratulations," according to StarWars.com.

In 2011, the first organised celebration of Star Wars Day took place in Toronto, Canada at the Toronto Underground Cinema. Produced by Sean Ward and Alice Quinn, festivities included an Original Trilogy Trivia Game Show; a costume contest with celebrity judges; and the web's best tribute films, mash-ups, parodies, and remixes on the big screen.

It has since grown into a grassroots tradition that allows people to reconnect with a film franchise that has touched generations of fans.

IBTimes UK has compiled some of the top quotes from the popular sci-fi franchise, to share with others on this special day for Star Wars fans worldwide:

"Do or do not… there is no try." – Yoda

"I find your lack of faith disturbing." – Darth Vader

"Your eyes can deceive you, don't trust them." – Obi-Wan Kenobi

"Once you start down the dark path, forever will it dominate your destiny." – Yoda

"Who's the more foolish, the fool? Or the fool who follows him?" – Obi-Wan Kenobi

"Fear leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to suffering." – Yoda

"I've got a very bad feeling about this." – Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, Princess Leica, C3-P0

"Help me Obi-Wan Kenobi. You're my only hope." – Princess Leia

"Use the Force, Luke." – Obi-Wan Kenobi

"The Force is strong with this one." – Darth Vader

"Impossible to see, the future is." – Yoda

"May the Force be with you." – Nearly all of the good guys and girls