How Disney plans to celebrate Star Wars on May the 4th

May the 4th, also known as Star Wars Day, is fast approaching, and this year Disney and Lucasfilm are making the celebration of George Lucas' franchise extra special.

From new merchandise to a big return to cinemas, there's a lot to look forward to on the big day. But leading up to it there is also a number of ways that Star Wars fans and budding Jedis can mark the occasion thanks to the folks at Disney.

The Phantom Menace is back in cinemas

Get those podracers up and running because to celebrate the 25th anniversary of The Phantom Menace the film is returning to cinemas. This means that fans of the 1999 film can enjoy it on the big screen once more — either for the very first time, or once again.

The film shared the origins of Anakin Skywalker (Jake Lloyd) and how he came to be tempted by the Dark Side and became Darth Vader. The Phantom Menace stars Liam Neeson and Ewan McGregor as Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi, and it follows their fateful first meeting with Anakin, and their battle with Darth Maul, that will change the galaxy forever.

While the film received a mixed reaction upon release, it has enjoyed a resurgence thanks to the generation that grew up with the prequels, the Clone Wars series, and now Ahsoka.

Read more: Star Wars timeline explained: The franchise's films and TV shows in order

For those keen to experience the film on the big screen, The Phantom Menace will be return to cinemas on 3 May.

Those who head to cinemas to enjoy the movie will also be given a sneak peek at The Acolyte.

This is the Star Wars Day merchandise you're looking for

Ahead of May the 4th, Disney is releasing a huge range of products and merchandise for Star Wars fans to enjoy including a special selection that was especially made to celebrate the 25th anniversary of The Phantom Menace.

Force Wielder Darth Maul Collectible Bust

Keeping to the theme of The Phantom Menace first of all, Disney have launched a new collection to mark the prequel's 25th anniversary. This includes an incredibly detailed bust of Darth Maul, complete with twin lightsaber, that is perfect for fans of the iconic Star Wars villain.

As well as the bust, Disney is releasing a limited edition pin celebrating the film's 25th anniversary, which features unique artwork of Padme Amidala and Jar Jar Binks.

Asajj Ventress Legacy Limited Edition LIGHTSABER Hilt Set

Speaking of great villains, what Star Wars fan collection would be complete without their very on lightsaber? Well, Disney has just the thing, as it has launched a new set of lightsaber hilts that celebrate Asajj Ventress. The highly detailed reproduction of the Dathomirian's lightsaber is presented in a stunning wooden case and will glow red if paired with lightsaber blades, which are sold separately.

The Sands of Tatooine collection

As well as launching luxury items like lightsabers and busts, Disney is also launching a clothing collection with Spirit Jersey and Loungefly. The range is inspired by Luke Skywalker's home of Tatooine with a stunning design of the desert planet and its twin suns recreated on a jersey.

The design has also been recreated for a Loungefly backpack, and an adults-sized ears headband that will be perfect for your next trip to Disneyland.

May the 4th Be With You collection

To celebrate Star Wars Day, Disney is also launching a few new items to its May 4th dated collection, including a new limited release pin featuring R2D2 and a stainless steel tumble that features fan favourites Boba Fett, C-3PO and R2-D2 for the 2024 celebration.

Forthcoming TV releases

As mentioned, Disney is preparing for the release of The Acolyte which will be coming to Disney+ on 4 June, the TV series is set during the High Republic era and will explore how the Sith rose to power in the final days of the period. The series stars Carrie-Anne Moss, Lee Jung-jae, Amandla Stenberg, and Dafne Keen amongst others.

Read more: Peter Serafinowicz talks Star Wars, Shaun of the Dead and 're-embracing' his roots

Elsewhere the Star Wars franchise will be added to with the TV series Skeleton Crew, which stars Jude Law and is described as a "galactic version of classic Amblin coming-of-age adventure films of the '80s."