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May 4 is no ordinary day for communities like American Canyon that love Star Wars.

Last Wednesday, more than 500 adults and children filed into the Community Center Gym for “May the 4th be with you” day, otherwise known as Star Wars Day.

The fact so many residents showed up for an event that started at 6:30 p.m. on a Wednesday night, in a town loaded with commuters who often are still getting home at that hour, spoke volumes about Star Wars Day’s popularity.

A long line of enthusiasts stretched outside the community gym when the doors first opened, reminiscent of the long lines people have waited in outside movie theaters to see Star Wars’ seven-and-counting episodic films.

“The event was fantastic!” said Parks and Recreation Director Creighton Wright, who is a self-described fan of the series. “It was a great evening for celebrating all things Star Wars.”

He added: “In the words of Darth Vader, ‘The force was strong with this one.’”

Wright was one of the many people who appeared in costume on Wednesday, which marked the second year in a row American Canyon has participated in “May the 4th be with you.”