May the 4th (Force) be with you-8th Street SE Unofficial Star Wars Weekend

Date and Time

• Fri, May 1, 2026 - Sun, May 3, 2026  5pm - 5pm

Location

visit website

Details

Overview
The Force is strong on 8th St Barracks Row - May 2nd, 3rd & 4th Barracks Row Main Street’s Unofficial Star Wars Weekend

Star Wars Weekend on 8th Street SE

Friday, May 1st, through Sunday, May 3rd

Brian Ready - Barracks Row Main Street

Event Description:

Experience the Force at Star Wars Weekend on Barracks Row Main Street

Washington, D.C. - Barracks Row Main Street is thrilled to announce the return of Star Wars Weekend, a galactic celebration of all things Star Wars, happening on May 1st, 2nd & 3rd, 2026. Prepare to embark on an epic adventure through the streets of Barracks Row as we bring the beloved saga to life in our vibrant neighborhood.

Join us for a weekend filled with intergalactic fun, featuring:

See the Galactic Empire Band on Opening Night, May 1st
Cosplay: Channel your favorite characters from the Star Wars universe.
Cosplay Contests
Lightsaber Training: Train with the Jedi Masters and learn the ways of the Force in our interactive lightsaber training sessions for Padawans of all ages.
Star Wars-themed Food and Drinks: Indulge your taste buds with delicious Star Wars-themed food and drinks from our local restaurants and vendors.
Live Entertainment: Enjoy live music, performances, and appearances by special guests from the Star Wars galaxy.
Art and Merchandise: Browse a variety of Star Wars-inspired art, crafts, and merchandise from local artisans and vendors.
Kids Zone: Younglings can enjoy games, activities, and crafts inspired by their favorite Star Wars characters.
Interactive Experiences: Immerse yourself in the Star Wars universe with interactive experiences, photo opportunities, and more

Friday, May 1st – Feature Events:
Barracks Row Nighttime Spetacular
📍 701 Pennsylvania Ave SE, Washington, DC 20003

🕗 Show at 7:30 PM

Experience an epic lightsaber battle set to music and lights in the heart of DC. Join us on Barracks Row for a thrilling nighttime performance you won’t want to miss.

Galactic Empire Band at The 507 on Barracks Row Venue
📍 507 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
🕗 Doors open at 8:00 PM | Show at 8:30 PM
🎟️ $29 General Admission (plus fees)

The galaxy’s premier Star Wars cosplay heavy metal tribute band lands in DC! Prepare for an electrifying concert featuring John Williams's music, face-melting riffs, and unforgettable performances.

"Sith Happens" Star Wars Pop-Up Bar at Lola’s

📍 711 8th St SE
🕗 May 1st - 3rd

Step into a galaxy far, far away with themed drinks, DJ sets, cosplay fun, and immersive Star Wars décor. 21+ only. Costumes encouraged!

Additional Activities
Star Wars-Themed Art – 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM @ Frame of Mine, 545 8th St SE
Themed Dining & Specials – &Pizza, Lola’s, Matchbox, Taco City, Ted’s Bulletin

Saturday, May 3rd – Feature Events:
Eastern Market Metro Park Activities
11:30 AM – 2:30 PM: Meet & Greet Characters
12:00 PM: Jedi Training
1:45 PM: Live Lightsaber Battle / Jedi Parade
3:00 PM: Costume Contest

The Galactic Derby - Star Wars meets the Kentucky Derby
📍 507 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
🕗 Doors open at 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
🎟️ $29 General Tickets (plus fees)

A mash-up of Star Wars and the Kentucky Derby! Sample rare bourbons, enjoy Derby bites, and dress for the Dark Side.

Star Wars: A New Hope Screening
📍 The Miracle Theater, 535 8th St SE
🕗 Doors open at 7:00 PM | Showtime at 7:30 PM
🎟️ $8 (plus fees)

The Villains Ball at 507 8th St SE
📍 507 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
🕗 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM
🎟️ Tickets from $100 (plus fees)

A night of high fashion, high energy, and high villainy! Enjoy an open bar, gourmet bites, entertainment, a cosplay catwalk, and the crowning of the 2025 "Villain of the Year."

Saturday Dining & Fun

Star Wars Art @ Frame of Mine
Themed Food @ Lola’s, Matchbox, Compliments Only, &Pizza, Taco City, Ted’s Bulletin

Sunday, May 3rd
Star Wars: A New Hope Screening
📍 535 8th St SE
🕑 Movie Screening at 2:00 PM
🎟️ $8 (plus fees)

A fan favorite returns! Test your Star Wars knowledge in a live game show, then watch the movie that started it all.

Sunday Specials & Entertainment
Star Wars Art @ Frame of Mine
Costume Contest @ Lola’s – 9:00 PM
Themed Dining @ Lola’s, &Pizza, Ted’s Bulletin, Taco City

Star Wars Weekend on Barracks Row Main Street promises to be an unforgettable experience that will transport you to a galaxy far, far away.

Follow @barracksrow and visit www.barracksrow.org/starwarsweekend for tickets, schedule updates, and galactic surprises.

May the Force be with you on 8th Street SE!

About Barracks Row Main Street:
Barracks Row Main Street is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the historic Barracks Row neighborhood in Washington, D.C. Through community engagement, economic development initiatives, and cultural programming, Barracks Row Main Street works to create a vibrant and inclusive community where residents, businesses, and visitors thrive.