May the 4th Be With You originated as a playful pun on the iconic Star Wars phrase "May the Force be with you." The earliest documented use dates back to May 4, 1979.

Historical Origin

The phrase first appeared in a political advertisement in the London Evening News. On that day, Margaret Thatcher began her tenure as the UK's first female Prime Minister following the 1979 general election. Supporters from the Conservative Party placed a half-page ad congratulating her with the line: "Dear Maggie, May the Fourth Be With You. Your Party Workers." This clever twist on the line from the 1977 film Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope marked the pun's debut, just two years after the movie's release.

Rise to Popularity

While the 1979 ad was the spark, "May the 4th Be With You" gained traction among fans over decades. By the 1990s, it appeared in cultural references like a 1988 Count Duckula episode and a 1994 UK Parliament debate. The holiday exploded after Disney acquired Lucasfilm in 2012, leading to official promotions, events, and merchandise. Now, May 4 is globally celebrated as Star Wars Day with marathons, costumes, and deals—often followed by "Revenge of the Sith Day" on May 5.

Cultural Impact

  • Fan Traditions : Movie screenings, themed parties, charity runs, and cosplay events draw millions worldwide.
  • Commercial Buzz : Brands offer Star Wars discounts; in 2025, events included special deals and activities.
  • Media Mentions : From headlines in 1978 to viral social media with #MayThe4thBeWithYou, it evolved from niche pun to mainstream holiday.

This fan-driven celebration highlights Star Wars' enduring legacy, blending nostalgia with community spirit.

TL;DR : The pun began on May 4, 1979, in a UK ad for Margaret Thatcher.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.