Star Wars-Themed First Thursday To Bring Stellar Fun To Del Ray

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Whether you like the classic Star Wars movies or recent favorites like "The Mandalorian" series, the Force is strong with this upcoming themed street festival in Del Ray.

First Thursday, a monthly street festival along Del Ray's Mount Vernon Avenue, will have its last event of 2023 on Thursday, Sept. 7 from 6 p.m. to dusk. The theme of the event is "Star Wars: In A Neighborhood Far Far Away."

Attendees can wear their best Star Wars costume and head to Mount Vernon Avenue in the area of Pat Miller Neighborhood Square, Mount Vernon and Oxford Avenues. The street festival will have live music by The B-Sides, costume contests, a selfie station with "out of this world" props; photo ops from the local chapter of the 501st Legion, children's activities and more. Evening Star Cafe will also have a Star Wars movie screening in their backyard at 8 p.m.

The costume contest will have judging at 7 p.m. at Pat Miller Neighborhood Square. Those who dress as their favorite Star Wars character will have a chance to win a best costume prize.

Each month's First Thursday benefits a different nonprofit. This month's featured nonprofit is the National Center for Women’s Innovations, which promotes the accomplishments of women. Stay tuned for ways to support the featured nonprofit closer to the event.

First Thursday is held by the Del Ray Business Association, and this month's event is sponsored by Click, LLC. The monthly events are held April through September.