Phoenix May the Fourth Be With You 5K

The Phoenix May the Fourth Be With You 5K is a Star Wars-themed athletic event taking place on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at Kiwanis Park in Tempe, Arizona. Organized by StartLine Racing, the event invites participants to celebrate "Star Wars Day" by running or walking through a scenic park course. The experience is highly interactive, featuring a costume contest where runners can showcase their best galactic attire, such as Wookies or Princess Leias. Every participant receives a custom finisher's medal and a dri-fit event shirt, with real-time chip timing provided for those racing at "light speeds." A virtual participation option is also available for those residing within the United States who cannot attend the desert planet adventure in person.

Tempe is a vibrant city in the Phoenix metropolitan area, home to approximately 186,000 residents. The city is known for its youthful energy, driven largely by the presence of Arizona State University. The demographic profile of Tempe is approximately 52% White (Non-Hispanic), 22% Hispanic or Latino, 9% Asian, and 7% Black or African American. With a median household income of roughly $74,000, the community is highly active and frequently hosts outdoor events at landmarks like Kiwanis Park and Tempe Town Lake. The park itself serves as a 125-acre recreational oasis, featuring a lake, expansive green belts, and paved trails that provide a flat and fast surface for community 5K runs.

Participants are encouraged to take advantage of the early packet pickup at Road Runner Sports on the Saturday before the race to avoid long lines on Sunday morning. Race day registration remains an option starting at 6:30 AM, provided the event has not reached capacity. While the course is friendly to wagons and strollers, motorized devices and bicycles are strictly prohibited to ensure safety for all "inhabitants" on the path. Finishers can enjoy a selection of post-race snacks and beverages, including Gatorade and fruit, while awaiting the awards ceremony which begins shortly after the final runners cross the galactical finish line.