May the 4th (Force) be with you!
Unofficial Star Wars Weekend
Barrack Row 8th Street SE

May 1st, 2nd & 3rd 2026

The Force is strong on 8th St Barracks Row

May 1st, 2nd & 3rd

Barracks Row Main Street’s Unofficial Star Wars Weekend

Experience the Force at Star Wars Weekend on Barracks Row Main Street!

Washington, D.C. - Barracks Row Main Street is thrilled to announce the return of Star Wars Weekend, a galactic celebration of all things Star Wars, happening on May 1st, 2nd & 3rd, 2026. Prepare to embark on an epic adventure through the streets of Barracks Row as we bring the beloved saga to life in our vibrant neighborhood.

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Friday, May 1st Feature Events

Galactic Empire Band

The mighty Galactic Empire is coming back to Washington DC! Join the galaxy’s foremost progressive technical heavy metal Star Wars cosplay John Williams tribute band as they lay waste to Washington DC, Planet Earth. Prepare for an evening of the most impressive heavy metal. There’s no one to stop us this time!

Galactic Empire Band Event Information:

Friday, May 1st, Doors open at 8:00 pm, show at 8:30 pm
The 507 - 507 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
General Admission Tickets are $25 per person excluding taxes and fees

TICKETS

Bio:

Galactic Empire is the galaxy’s foremost instrumental Star Wars cosplay heavy metal John Williams tribute band. Their first music video was a viral hit, gaining over 10 million views with national press coverage including Huffington Post, Guitar World, Entertainment Weekly, and MSNBC, along with a live TV performance on E! Entertainment during their coverage of the 2016 Academy Awards. The band has released two full-length albums with Rise Records (produced and mixed by Carson and Grant), along with four more music videos. They’ve toured extensively, headlining multiple national and overseas tours, including Canada, Europe, Japan, and Australia, along with appearances at major festivals, comic cons, sporting events, and supporting arena acts Ozzy Osbourne and Babymetal. In 2022 the band signed with Pure Noise Records, and released their third studio LP “Special Edition” on May 3. The band is primed to continue their journey toward becoming the ultimate power in the universe.

"Sith Happens", A Star Wars Pop Up Bar Coming to Barracks Row for Star Wars Weekend!

Lola's Bar - 711 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
8th Street SE, Barracks Row – Washington, D.C.

Lola's Bar 711 8th Street SE, Barracks Row – Washington, D.C.

May the Fourth be with you—and with your drink!

As part of Barracks Row’s Star Wars Weekend, we’re thrilled to announce the arrival of “Sith Happens,” a multi-night Star Wars-themed pop-up bar experience like no other.

Step into a galaxy far, far away with out-of-this-world cocktails, dramatic Star Wars décor, and a fully immersive atmosphere that will transport you straight into the saga. Whether you’re a Jedi Master, Rebel pilot, or Sith Lord, this is the ultimate destination for fans 21+ ready to celebrate the Force in style.

Expect:

🍸 Galactic-Themed Drinks – Crafted cocktails worthy of the Cantina📸 Star Wars-Inspired Photo Ops – Snap selfies with props and backdrops from across the galaxy🎶 Music, Cosplay & Surprises – DJs, costumed fans, and galactic mischief all night long. ✨ Costumes encouraged. Good times guaranteed, don’t miss your chance to drink like a Rebel… or a Sith.

Information

Additional Adventures & Experiences
Friday, May 1st Events

May the 1st - The Force Awakens Events:

Star Wars Theme Art - 11:00 am to 5:00 pm - Frame of Mine - 545 8th St SE
Star Wars Entertainment - Lola's - 711 8th St SE - "Sith Happens", A Star Wars Pop Up Bar
Star Wars Food Specials - Compliments Only - Theme Sandwich's
Star Wars Food Specials - Ted's Bulletin - 505 8th Street SE
Star Wars Food Specials - Matchbox - 521 8th St SE - Happy Hour Specials

Saturday, May 2nd Feature Events

May the 2nd - Star Wars Events:

11:30 AM - 2:30 PM - Characters Meet & Greet - Eastern Market Metro Park
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM - Jedi Training (Kids of all ages)
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM - LIVE Lightsaber Battle / Jedi Lightsaber Parade - Eastern Market Metro Park
- A thrilling duel between Jedi and their enemies.
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM - Costume Contest - Eastern Market Metro Park
- Show off your Star Wars-inspired outfits in this fun competition!
5:00 PM - 7:30 PM - The Galactic Derby - The Kentucky Derby Meets Star Wars
7:30 PM - Star Wars: A New Hope Screening at Miracle Theater
9:00 PM - 10:30 PM - Villain Ball (21+)

The Galactic Derby:
Where Star Wars Meets the Kentucky Derby

May 2nd, 2026 - Barracks Row – 8th Street SE, Washington, D.C.

Get ready for an out-of-this-galaxy experience as two iconic worlds collide at The Galactic Derby. Dive into the rich traditions of whiskey-making while surrounded by the magic of the Star Wars universe. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey enthusiast or simply looking for a one-of-a-kind evening out, this event offers the best of bourbon and intergalactic adventure.

Blending the elegance and thrill of the Kentucky Derby with the epic universe of Star Wars, The Galactic Derby is an experience like no other.

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon featuring:

🌀 A fully themed Star Wars setting🥃 Tastings of premium and rare bourbons🍴 Kentucky Derby-inspired bites🎩 Themed attire encouraged – come as your favorite Star Wars character with a derby twist!📺 Live viewing of the "Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports."

Galactic Derby Event Information:

Saturday, May 2nd, Doors open at 5:00 pm
As You Are Bar - 500 8th St SE, Washington, DC
General Admission Tickets are $29 per person excluding taxes and fees

Celebrate like a champion—whether you're betting on the race or rooting for the Rebellion. Space is limited, and tickets will go fast.

TICKETS

STAR WARS MOVIES
THE MIRACLE THEATRE

TICKETS

The Villains Ball

Get ready for a night of pure villainy at the most anticipated event of the year: The Villains Ball! This is not your ordinary ball, this is a celebration of all the villains out there who often get overshadowed by their heroic counterparts. Join us at our new venue in Washington, DC for an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and debauchery!

The Villains Ball Event Information:
Friday, May 2nd, from 8pm-1:00am,
507 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003

What will guests enjoy?

A Devious Open Bar
Complimentary hors d'oeuvres & hearty dinner options
Villainous Dessert by our celebrity Master Chef
Cosplay Catwalk to show off your looks
Entertainment & Music
Photo & Video Booths
Special VIP Area
Debuting the 2026 Villain of the Year and more!

This event is not for the heroes, so leave your capes and spandex at home! We are calling all villains, from all fandoms, to come together for one night of mayhem. Whether you are a fan of anime, comic books, sci-fi, Disney, or any other genre, this is the perfect opportunity to let your evil side shine.

The best villain will be crowned "Villain of the Year"

This event is 21+ ONLY!

Dress to impress! No jeans or streetwear!

Star Wars: A New Hope Screening (May 2nd, 7:30 PM)
Experience the classic that started it all! Join us at the Miracle Theater for a special screening of Star Wars: A New Hope as part of our Star Wars Weekend celebrations.

Movie Screening Information:
Saturday, May 2nd, Doors open at 7:00 pm and show at 7:30 pm

Miracle Theater - 535 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
General Admission Tickets are $8 per person

**excludes fees

Information

Additional Adventures & Experiences Saturday, May 2nd

May the 2nd - Star Wars Food Specials, Entertainment & Art:

Star Wars Theme Art - 11:00 am to 5:00 pm - Frame of Mine - 545 8th St SE
Star Wars Entertainment - All Day - Ted's Bulletin - 505 8th Street SE
Star Wars Entertainment - Lola's Star Wars POP UP Bar - 711 8th St SE
- Feature specials "Dark Side" and "Light Side" cocktails
Star Wars Food Specials - &Pizza - All Day - The R2D2 Pizza Specials
Star Wars Food Specials - Compliments Only - 526 8th St SE Ste A
Star Wars Food Specials - Matchbox - 521 8th St SE - Happy Hour Specials
Star Wars Food Specials - Taco City DC - 1102 8th St SE
Star Wars Food Specials - Ted's Bulletin - 505 8th Street SE
Star Wars Food Specials - Belga Cafe - 514 8th St. SE - Star Wars food and drink specials

Sunday, May 3rd Feature Events

STAR WARS MOVIES
THE MIRACLE THEATRE

Star Wars: A New Hope Screening (May 3rd, 2:00 PM)
Experience the classic that started it all! Join us at the Miracle Theater for a special screening of Star Wars: A New Hope as part of our Star Wars Weekend celebrations.

Event Information:

Sunday, May 3rd, Doors open at 1:30 pm Movie Screening at 2:00 pm
Miracle Theater - 535 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
General Admission Tickets are $8 per person **excludes fees

Additional Adventures & Experiences Sunday May 3rd

May the 3rd Star Wars Food Specials, Entertainment & Art:

Star Wars Theme Art - 11:00 am to 5:00 pm - Frame of Mine - 545 8th St SE
Star Wars Entertainment - 2:00 pm - STAR WARS: A NEW HOPE (1977) for May 4th - The Miracle Theater - 535 8th St SE
Star Wars Food Specials - Compliments Only - 526 8th St SE Ste A
Star Wars Food Specials - Ted's Bulletin - 505 8th Street SE
Star Wars Food Specials - Belga Cafe - 514 8th St. SE - Star Wars food and drink specials