The Star Wars Celebration functions are immense conventions backed by Lucasfilm where fans get together to commemorate the highly successful film saga's history. Including the first one which was held in Denver in 1999 prior to the premier of Star Wars Episode One: The Phantom Menace, there were seven Star Wars Celebrations so far including one in London and one just outside of Tokyo. Tens of thousands of fans, a lot of whom are decked out in extravagant Halloween Costumes get together over three or four days to have a look at actual props used during creating the movies and encounter actors from the series. Celebration II, held in Indianapolis, Indiana was attended by around 75,000 people!
One group who is a mainstay is the 501st Legion. The 501st is a collection of fanatics who sport home made, yet realistic, storm trooper costumes and have attended sci-fi conventions worldwide. While Lucasfilm and the 501st aren't officially linked they work together frequently especially at the Star Wars Celebrations. The 501st numbers almost 5,000 members in 40 countries globally and members undergo a heavy screening process prior to being let in. They once even were asked to act as security at the once a year DragonCon science fiction conference based in Atlanta!
Star Wars Celebrations have had meet and greets with famed Star Wars actors like Carrie Fischer who played Princess Leia, and even series creator George Lucas! The last Star Wars Celebration took place in Orlando, Florida and was attended by about 30,000 followers. They are fantastic places to buy costumes from the world renowned sci-fi franchise and get a unique glimpse into the world of Star Wars, so if you are a huge enthusiast of Star Wars I'd look into when the next Star Wars Celebration will be held!

