The Empire State Building Is Getting a Star Wars MAKEOVER

One of the most iconic villains is taking over the Empire State Building, and no, it’s not King Kong.

©Universal

This classic building in New York City has been featured in tons of blockbuster films, like Sleepless in Seattle, Superman II, and — yes — King Kong. But today, it’s being taken over by none other than DARTH VADER!

On March 21st, the Empire State Building is hosting a Star Wars-themed takeover as the kick-off for the “March to May the 4th” event. Hayden Christensen is coming to participate in a lighting ceremony that “is sure to wow onlookers.”

The Empire State Building shared this video of the event with the incredible caption “He has the high ground now.”

He has the high ground now. @starwars pic.twitter.com/f09sVtfx0N

— Empire State Building (@EmpireStateBldg) March 21, 2024

Joining Christensen at the event will be Darth Vader himself, accompanied by stormtroopers! These and other costumed characters will be visiting the Empire State Building throughout the day, and the Observatory host and staff are even going to be carrying around lightsabers to match the theme. So if you’re a Jedi, you’ll definitely want to avoid this spot on Thursday.

Darth Vader

As part of the event, Disney Consumer Products and Lucasfilm are going to unveil a special Star Wars villains-themed Fifth Avenue window exhibition. There will be a themed photo opportunity with Funko on the 86th-floor Observatory, a LEGO Star Wars exhibit for Observatory guests, and a fan experience from Hasbro and Amazon. Of course, this is all leading up to the light show that evening.

The Empire State Building “March to May the 4th” event lasts from March 21st through April 29th, so you’ve got a little over a month to check out all the themed offerings.

©Empire State Building

Disney and Lucasfilm also plan to unveil a bunch of new Star Wars-themed souvenirs, including toys, clothing, collectibles, and more.

This isn’t the first time the Empire State Building has been the stage for a pop culture display. In 2022, Stranger Things took over the building ahead of the season premiere, with a life-size Demogorgon photo op, a visit from the cast of the show, and a huge projection of the new villain, Vecna.

©Empire State Building

Something about the Empire State Building just attracts villains, apparently!

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