A guide: Star Wars “Force Friday” arrives September 4th

Brace yourself friends. The, well, force that is Star Wars: The Force Awakens is coming. And it kicks off with Force Friday on September 4th when new Star Wars merchandise will hit shelves.

Whether you’re a family with a fashion for the force or just getting into this monumental series, there’s plenty of ways to enjoy the fun before the December 18th release.

1. Target stores

According to insiders, Target will open 207 of its stores at MIDNIGHT on Friday, 9/4 for first crack at Force Awakens merchandise. Two stores in the Indianapolis area will participate:

• o SuperTarget, 11750 Commercial Drive, Fishers
• o SuperTarget, 895 S State Road 135, Greenwood

From what we hear, stores will have an interactive Chewbecca character, a cockpit photo opp and a TIE fighter hung over the displays. There will be new collectibles, books and clothing/accessories.

All Target stores will also celebrate a “Share The Force Saturday” event with details still tightly under wraps. Keep searching #sharetheforce on social media for updates.

More info at: target.com/starwars

2. The Disney Store

From our friends at the Castleton Mall Disney Store – the only location in the Indianapolis area – Force Friday means doors open for business with Star Wars-themed ceremonies {offering a galactic twist on their traditional “Unlocking Imagination” ritual}, a free commemorative pin for the first 100 guests, a free Topps vintage trading card giveaway upon completion of an in-store event and “epic” Star Wars theming that pays homage to both the Light and Dark Sides.

More info at: disneystore.com/force-friday/mn/1025030/.

3. Toys R Us

It’s ‘stay up late to celebrate’ fun with Toys R Us locations nationwide. ALL stores will host a midnight doors-opening on Friday, 9/4 for first access to merchandise, a limited edition LEGO brick plus a commemorative poster while supplies last.

More info at: toysrus.com

4. Kids Ink Bookstore

So, NOT a Force Friday celebration, but close enough: Saturday, 9/19, Kids Ink Books {located in the lovely local corner shops at 56th and Illinois near Butler University} will celebrate a special Star Wars Day. It will include lessons from Indy Lightsaber Academy, Star Wars-themed drinks and snacks, 20% off Star Wars merchandise and more. But if you can’t wait until then, their front display is already stocked with great titles to take home.

Finally, for a full guide of national fun, take a peek at the Official Star Wars Force Friday Event Guide which includes links to live streams, details on an Amazon promotion and more. However you celebrate, may the force… well, you know.