Ideas for a Star Wars Party

by Victor Medina

Overview

Whether it is a child's birthday party or an adult get-together, "Star Wars" makes for an entertaining theme for hardcore or casual fans. Remember, "geek" is the new "chic," and a movie that was considered for nerds only is now a part of pop culture and the American lexicon.

Star Wars figures can be used to decorate a cake.
Theme Rooms

Some scenes in the "Star Wars" movies are so iconic a party planner can work them into an overall theme to decorate a room. For example, consider using a "cantina" theme. Dim the lights, decorate tables with an LED-powered "push" light (generally used in closets) as a centerpiece, and play the "Cantina Theme Music" from the Star Wars soundtrack to create the right atmosphere. Have a bartender or server wear an alien mask. The "Return of the Jedi Special Edition" soundtrack has songs from the "Jabba's palace" scene that can be played as well. "Star Wars" worlds like the ice planet Hoth, the Ewok forest planet of Endor or even the Death Star can be integrated into a design scheme. Find white table covers made of white reflective foil that shimmer like ice and can be used to over walls like an ice cave. Inflatable trees are available, and for a Death Star motif, use sheet metal to cover tables and floors and hang white Christmas lights in a darkened room to simulate space. "Star Wars" toy ships are available everywhere and could be hung from the ceiling to simulate a space battle.

It's easy to create a Star Wars party.

Cardboard Stand-ups

If celebrities from "Star Wars" won't be at your party, consider getting the next best thing: cardboard cutouts. Life-size cutouts of all the major "Star Wars" characters are available at comic book stores or online, and party goers will enjoy taking pictures with them.
Cakes and Centerpieces

To decorate a cake or make a centerpiece, consider using some "Star Wars" items. Hasbro Toys has a line of 3-inch diecast spaceships featured in the films, each with an individual stand that can be placed atop cakes or around tables to create a mini battle scene. Hasbro also has a line of small rubber "Star Wars" figures called Galactic Heroes that can be used for decorating. These little figures feature the main characters in a stubby, animated style that kids especially will enjoy.
Costumed Characters

Some Star Wars fan groups wear costumes that look like they came straight out of the movies. The 501st Legion (fans who dress like the bad guys) and the Rebel Legion (fans who dress like the good guys) often appear at charity and fan events. Both groups take requests via their websites to appear at events but do not accept payment. The 501st accepts donations to one of the charities it supports.

Members of the 501st Legion

Overview