Hold on to your lightsabers, my friends. The day that we have been waiting for is ALMOST HERE! If you, your kids, or someone you know is going bananas about the release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens on Friday, Dec. 18, then check out this round-up of fun events in Austin where you can unleash your epic Star Wars excitement.

 

— Star Wars Art Exhibit @ Art on 5th
Check out the new exhibition of Star Wars artwork featuring favorite characters and scenes from the iconic films. Art on 5th Gallery is hosting this collection by four official Disney artists: James Coleman, Rob Kaz, Allison Lefcort, and Rodel Gonzalez. The show will be on display through Sunday, January 31. Free!

 

— Jedi Training Camp @ Howson Branch of the Austin Public Library
On Friday, Dec. 18 at  4 p.m. you can join the Austin Public Library for crafts and activities as they celebrate the saga of Star Wars! Free. For ages 5 and up.

 

— Star Wars Menu & Costumes at Alamo Drafthouse Austin
Do you have tickets to see the film at Alamo Drafthouse? You’ll be able to snack on a special Star Wars-themed menu featuring items such as Jabba Critter Fritters and Yoda Soba Salad.

Planning on wearing your costume to the film? Please take note of this message from Alamo Drafthouse:

“We’ve been getting a Jabba-sized number of questions about our policy on costumes, weapons, and props at STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS. In short — feel free to cosplay your heart out with masks, helmets, blasters, miniature Death Stars, lightsabers, etc.

Our normal rules apply, however — if your cosplay disrupts the film or makes another guest uncomfortable? You’re bantha poodoo. Also, if you’re wearing a full mask and you order an adult beverage, we’ll ask to take a look so that we know Darth Vader’s more of a Sebastian Shaw than a Jake Lloyd.”

 

— Lone Star Saber Academy Demos
Austin’s Lone Star Saber Academy is a community service organization formed by fans of the Star Wars series. They are battle saber enthusiasts who are interested in the Jedi Martial Arts or the art of fencing and swordplay. See them battle their lightsabers at the Bullock Museum IMAX Theater on Friday, Dec. 18 at 6 p.m. Grown-up Star Wars fans can also see them at The Highball on Saturday, Dec. 19 at 6:30 p.m.

 

— Star Wars Day @ Outlaw Moon
Know a serious Star Wars toy collector? On Saturday, Dec. 19 they’ll want to stop by Outlaw Moon. This store has been acquiring original Star Wars toys and merchandise, and to celebrate the release of The Force Awakens, they’re going to introduce these long-stashed collections back out into the public. If you love classic Star Wars, this is a great opportunity to add unique finds to your collection!

 

— Add a Lightsaber to Your Facebook Profile Picture: Want to show off your enthusiasm for Star Wars to all your Facebook friends? You can go here to the Star Wars Movies Facebook page and click “Try it” to add a lightsaber to you photo.

Have you heard of any other special Star Wars fun scheduled in the Austin area? Tell us in the comments!

May the force continue to be with you, my friends!