A guide: Star Wars “Force Friday” arrives September 4th

This post is being shared by our sister publication at Indy’s Child Magazine but all details have been updated to reflect the Cincinnati area. 

Brace yourself friends. The, well, force that is Star Wars: The Force Awakens is coming. And it kicks off with Force Friday on September 4th when new Star Wars merchandise will hit shelves.

Whether you’re a family with a fashion for the force or just getting into this monumental series, there’s plenty of ways to enjoy the fun before the December 18th release.

1. Target stores

According to insiders, Target will open 207 of its stores at MIDNIGHT on Friday, 9/4 for first crack at Force Awakens merchandise. One stores in the Cincinnati area will participate but we’re including one in Dayton as well in case you plan to travel:

• o Beechmont Target, 8640 Beechmont Ave, Cincinnati
• o Dayton South Target, 2300 Miamisburg Centerville Rd, Dayton

From what we hear, stores will also have an interactive Chewbecca character, a cockpit photo opp and a TIE fighter hung over the displays. There will also be new collectibles, books and clothing/accessories.

All Target stores will also celebrate a “Share The Force Saturday” event with details still tightly under wraps. Keep searching #sharetheforce on social media for updates.

More info at: target.com/starwars

2. The Disney Store

From our friends at the Disney Store, Force Friday means doors open for business with Star Wars-themed ceremonies {offering a galactic twist on their traditional “Unlocking Imagination” ritual}, a free commemorative pin for the first 100 guests, a free Topps vintage trading card giveaway upon completion of an in-store event and “epic” Star Wars theming that pays homage to both the Light and Dark Sides. Both Cinci locations will celebrate and are located at:

• o Kenwood Towne Center, 7875 Montgomery Rd
• o Disney Outlet Store, 400 Premium Outlets Drive, Monroe

More info at: disneystore.com/force-friday/mn/1025030/.

3. Toys R Us

It’s ‘stay up late to celebrate’ fun with Toys R Us locations nationwide. ALL stores will host a midnight doors-opening on Friday, 9/4 for first access to merchandise, a limited edition LEGO brick plus a commemorative poster while supplies last.

More info at: toysrus.com

Finally, for a full guide of national fun, take a peek at the Official Star Wars Force Friday Event Guide which includes links to live streams, details on an Amazon promotion and more. However you celebrate, may the force… well, you know.