May The Force Be With You...Or Not

Every year, around May/June, Disney holds Star Wars Weekends, celebrating all that is included in the Star Wars Universe.   This event takes place at Disney's Hollywood Studios on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during those consecutive weekends.

Now, I know that I'm odd.  I myself, am not a Star Wars fan.  Well, I guess I can't say that.  Really someone can only technically say that if they've seen Star Wars...and seeing as how I have NOT...saying I'm not a fan isn't really accurate.  Basically, I'm pretty much indifferent to the whole Star Wars saga.  I could care less about the whole thing.

Yet, for some strange reason, I would  like to experience Star Wars Weekends at some point in my life.  From everything I've heard about this weekend, it seems like it would be something to behold.  Kind of like how a person should experience Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at least once.

So what is it that would draw in someone like me?  Someone who is not a big Star Wars fan.  (Or, in my particular case...someone who's never seen the movies at all?)

First of all, there's the characters.  Now, I'm not talking about those Star Wars particular characters.  I have no idea who Queen Ama-what's her name is.  I don't know what the purpose of Boba Fett is.  And I could care less about Chewbacca.  (Aren't you impressed?!  I actually know SOME Star Wars stuff!)

The characters I'm talking about are the Disney characters dressed in their Star Wars finest!  I want to meet Jedi Mickey, Leia Minnie, Stormtrooper Donald, and Darth Goofy!  These are the characters that draw me.  They aren't too Star Wars-y that I don't know who they are, but they are Star Wars-y enough to help enhance my experience those particular weekends.  It's the perfect mixture!

Another thing that really draws me in and makes me want to go to Star Wars Weekends is the Hyperspace Hoopla!  Maybe it's just because I miss saying Hoopla (Hoopla!  Adventurer's Club, may you rest in peace!)  I really think this show appeal to me because it's quite entertaining.  Make sure to check out this video from last year's version...it changes every year. 



Now, even though I don't like to get to the parks early (I mean, are the parks really open before noon?!) on Star Wars Weekends, you really should.  Not so you can get in line to meet the Star Wars Celebrities who are featured each weekend.  No, I think you should get there early so you can see the Storm Trooper Show before park open.  I won't post a video that gives it away, but trust me...from what I've seen, it's a hoot!  (I'm thinking it's probably funnier if you've actually SEEN Star Wars, but not all is lost on me.)

The last thing that I think I would enjoy, as a non-Star Wars fan, during Star Wars Weekends, is the ability to people watch.  Seriously, some people get INTO this!  They get all decked out in their Star Wars finest.  (The closest I can compare this to is when I go see Harry Potter on opening night at Midnight and see all the people dressed as characters.)  So watch as all the Star Wars geeks (and I use that term lovingly) come parading past.  It's totally worth it!

I guess I should also throw in experiencing Star Tours.  I mean, it is Star Wars Weekends after all.  How can you have fun at this event without riding this attraction?  Especially now, since it's been completely redone.  

So, those are my tips for how to enjoy Star Wars Weekends without being a Star Wars fan!  To me, I think you still get a lot out of just being surrounded by the ambiance.  It's what makes the whole thing fun.

Of course, if you are absolutely 100% positive that Star Wars Weekends just isn't something you care to experience while down in Florida this time of year, I really suggest avoiding Disney's Hollywood Studios on the weekends.  Sure, you don't have to partake in the Star Wars excitement, but the rest of the park will be...which means the park will be a little busier.  So, if you don't want to see any of the event, avoid the park on those days.  

What is it that you enjoy about Star Wars Weekends?  Have you been before?  What was your favorite?  Are you like me and could care less?  What would draw you to the parks for this event?  Make sure to let me know in the comments section.