Finals week is creeping up, and while that may make you tremble with fear, all you have to do is think of the last day of finals to feel better: May the fourth. A day commonly associated with Star Wars, May the Fourth is the perfect day to throw a Star Wars-themed party this year because it falls right as our semester ends and summer break begins. If you’re having trouble getting through finals, just think of the awesome party you could have waiting for you on Friday if you follow these simple tips:
Set the mood with music and film
To truly embody the Star Wars spirit, you’ve got to have the right music. You can’t go wrong with the score from any of the films, but if you’re open to something outside of the Star Wars galaxy, you can opt for a pre-made John Williams playlist on Spotify. It’ll include other greats like “Harry Potter” and “Indiana Jones” scores along with the classic “Star Wars,” but you really can’t go wrong with any of those. If you prefer, you can play the actual films in the background – which would feature some pretty great sound effects and one-liners. This would serve a dual purpose as you’d have the score in the background and your more introverted friends can simply sit and watch the films.
Ham it up with themed snacks
You’re only limited by your imagination with this – there are dozens examples of Star Wars-themed snacks that are sure to be crowd-pleasers. If you’re crunched for time you can buy ordinary snacks like Teddy Grahams, any green soda and Rolos to create “Edible Ewoks,” “Yoda Soda” and “Han Rolos,” respectively. Just print out a few little signs with the names you dub your snacks and you’re all set. If you’re up for a little more work, you can create your own snacks. You can make edible Tie Fighters out of a couple hexagon crackers, spread and small blocks of cheese. You can also make wookie cookies with any kind of cookie and some chocolate icing – just draw on a happy face and chocolate icing belt – or a snack mix complete with lightsaber pretzels covered in red and blue yogurt. Other hilarious ideas include “Han Solo Carbonite Jello” and “Jabba the Hummus.”
Rebel Alliance vs. the Galactic Empire
If you and your friends are willing to risk your friendships, then make the party a game night. You can play charades by acting out different characters, create your own trivia game by asking what characters said which quotes – bonus points for knowing which film the quotes are from – or print out free Star Wars bingo sheets. Divvy up into rebels vs. empire teams to make it interesting – just make sure no one goes over to the dark side and your friendships are strong with the force.
Jedi dress up
Of course, you can always challenge yourself and your friends to a costume contest. Most Star Wars costumes are attainable on a college budget, though they may not be the most high-end. Just remember not to judge too harshly – it is finals week after all – and give your friends credit for that predictable white-bed-sheet and half-hearted buns Leia look. The prize can be control of the galaxy – or at least temporary control of the aux cord.
So, use the force for knowledge and defense this week, and in times of strife just remind yourself “I am one with the force. The force is with me.” If all else fails, just think ahead to the most epic party in the galaxy: the one you’ll be throwing after finals are over on May the fourth.
