Star Wars scene from Disney Plus series The Mandalorian with The Child aka Baby Yoda – Hasbro action figures.
LOGAN – Once upon a time, in a state not that far away, there was a great passion for a certain science fiction saga. This passion was so strong that it could be felt in every corner of the state, and it all revolved around Star Wars.
Utah is the top state in the country when it comes to being passionate about Star Wars, with the state seeing some of the highest search volume for Star Wars-related topics in the country. Examining Google Trends data over the last four years, researchers at Bookies.com found that Utah has topped all other states in Star Wars-related searches, with Idaho not that far behind at 3rd. On a scale from 0-100, Utah scored 100 in each of the four years examined. Idaho scored an average of 85 over the same four year span. The state least interested in that galaxy far, far away? Mississippi, which scored an average of 44.75.
“Here’s something we didn’t see coming: the same state ranking No. 1 on the list each of the years that we researched,” wrote analyst Mark Strotman. “But here’s Utah, ranking 100 on the Google Trends list in every single year of this survey (2020-2023). Go figure.”
Fans in Utah are always looking for the latest news and updates on the franchise, from movie releases to merchandise to the latest TV series released on Disney+. Besides the natural connection with May the 4th, this May is also the 40th anniversary of the film Return of the Jedi hitting theaters on May 25.
Several activities are planned around the state to celebrate the unofficial holiday. Clark Planetarium in Salt Lake is hosting a May the Fourth Be With You event, including science demonstrations, life-sized droids and costume contests.
Urban Arts Gallery at the Gateway in Salt Lake is hosting a Star Wars art show and cosplay contest. It will include Star Wars-themed snacks, including the infamous Blue Milk.
Heber Valley Railroad is hosting a Star Wars Fan Train. Participants are encouraged to come dressed in costume. There will be photo opportunities with a cast of costumed characters, Star Wars trivia with prizes, themed music, games and fun.
There is also a May the Fourth Race half marathon, 10K and 5K in Farmington (though it actually takes place on Saturday, May 6). There is also an option to participate virtually.
Do you have any special plans to celebrate the day by watching a favorite Star Wars show, enjoying a Yoda soda or Wookie cookie, or something else? Let us know in the comments.