May the 4th be with you: How today came to be 'Star Wars Day'

Happy May the 4th! It’s the time of the year where fans from far, far away come together for Star Wars Day.

The unofficial holiday originated from a catchphrase from George Lucas' first film of the space franchise, "Star Wars: A New Hope," which was released in 1977. In the film, General Dodonna utters the phrase to the rebel alliance as they prepare for their assault on the Death Star.

"Then man your ships! And may the Force be with you!"

Here’s what to know about Star Wars Day.

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When is Star Wars Day?

If it's May 4 on the calendar, it's also Star Wars Day!

Why is May the 4th Star Wars Day?

Fans celebrate Star Wars Day on ‘May the 4th’ because it sounds similar to the classic catchphrase, “May the force be with you,” which was first heard in "Star Wars: A New Hope."

When did Star Wars Day start and who coined the phrase?

One of the earliest uses of the phrase “May the Fourth be with you” came on May 4, 1979, when a London newspaper writer congratulated Britain’s new prime minister, Margaret Thatcher, on her first day of office.

In a full-page ad the writer said, “May the Fourth Be With You, Maggie. Congratulations!”

Over 40 years later, fans across the globe continue to spread Star Wars cheer.

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Star Wars Day shows

In celebration of May the 4th, Disney+ is premiering Star Wars Visions Volume 2, a collection of short episodes by anime creators and storytellers who put their own spin on the galaxy.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: May the 4th be with you: Happy 'Star Wars Day'. Here's the history.