Parks & Recreation
Hastings, Nebraska 68901 (402) 461-2324
May the Fourth Be with You!
We are so excited to announce the City of Hastings inaugural 'May the Fourth Be with You' special event at Highland Park and the Hastings Museum! This Star Wars celebration cannot be matched in Central Nebraska and will be the place to be on May 3rd, 2026! Sponsored by Hastings Vision Clinic and coordinated in conjunction with the Hastings Public Library and Hastings Museum, this free event needs to be on your calendar this Spring.
This event begins at 1:00pm and will feature food trucks, fun entertainment and special visitors from a galaxy far, far away! Want a taste? Here's what is locked in thus far...
501st Legion - This organization is an international fan-based group dedicated to the construction and wearing of screen-accurate replicas of Stormtroopers, Bounty Hunters, and other characters from the Star Wars universe. Also known as 'Vader's Fist', these individuals will be present and interactive during the event. Rumor is they are even bringing a droid!
Light Saber Training - Abdel Bruguera returns to teach a themed fencing course to prepare any aspiring Jedi's for their next light saber battle.
Jedi Training Obstacle Course - The Hastings Parks & Recreation Department has put together a Jedi Training Obstacle Course that your kids will want to run through again and again!
Hastings Museum Trivia - Ace the trivia from the Hastings Museum and receive a certificate for a free popcorn at the museum's theater!
Droid Craft with the Hastings Public Library - All participants can sit down with the Hastings Public Library and work on a droid craft to celebrate Star Wars!
Cosplay Contest - Each year, the Hastings Parks & Recreation Department provides trophies and prizes to the winners of the youth, teen and adult divisions of our Cosplay contest!
Food Trucks and Vendors - This wouldn't be a Star Wars festival without food trucks and vendors! Check back as we get closer to see what food trucks and vendors will be making an appearance...
Solo: A Star Wars Story will be playing at the Hastings Museum's theater at 3:00pm. Tickets are $5.50, but youth under the age of 12 can get a free admission with a paying adult--pick up your coupon at the May the Fourth Be With You special event!
Want to be involved? - Reach out to the Hastings Parks and Recreation Department for secondary sponsorship opportunities, vendor booths or volunteer duties! We cannot wait for May 3rd, 2026!
