One of the great things about fan communities, is when their celebrations of what they love end up helping charities. The 501st Legion that celebrates Star Wars is a great example of this as the thousands of volunteers appear at hospitals and charity events as a way to give back to their communities while having a little fun.
Another example of this is the Course of the Force, which is an epic journey through California and a tribute to Star Wars. It is an Olympic torch-styled relay held in advance of the San Diego Comic Con International while raising money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
The relay, presented by Nerdist Industries and Lucasfilm, starts at Skywalker Ranch and heads down to the nerd nirvana that is San Diego Comic-Con. Celebrity runners get in on the game like Aleis Denisof, Chris Colfer, Adrienne Curry, Jaime King, Kyle Newman, and Jared Eng. In addition, Disney friend Ashley Eckstein is host of the marathon along with Carrie Keagan.
Of course many participants dressed in their Star Wars finest. Participants enjoyed such delicacies as grass-fed “bantha” burgers. And most importantly, they had fun. Of course I am sure the Magic of Healthy Living people and Michelle Obama are pleased that these folks got outside and got some physical activity. The Emperor doesn’t seem to get outside much based on his pasty skin.
Truth be told, the lightsaber does not go straight from the Bay Area to San Diego. There are various segments that are caped with various “Conival” festivals featuring live music and other festivities.
These are the type of events that I hope Lucasfilm continues following the Disney acquisition. This summer, Lucasfilm is also partnering with Major League Baseball to host Star Wars Nights at ballparks across the country to raise money and awareness for another charity, Stand Up To Cancer.
I look forward to checking out the Course of the Force festivities at the Chuck Jones Gallery in San Diego when I am in town for Comic-Con. For those participating, thanks for giving back to those and need. And…. May the force be with you, always.
For more info on Course of the Force visit http://courseoftheforce.starwars.com.
All images from the Course of the Force website.