A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, I’d never been to Star Wars Weekends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. But in 2008, I attended for the first time, and since then there’s been a radical disturbance in the force: Since I haven’t managed to get back for another round, I therefore spend each May wishing I were headed down to Florida for the weekend, to cavort once again with Ewoks, stormtroopers, and celebrity guests.

 A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, I’d never been to Star Wars Weekends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. But in 2008, I attended for the first time, and since then there’s been a radical disturbance in the force: Since I haven’t managed to get back for another round, I therefore spend each May wishing I were headed down to Florida for the weekend, to cavort once again with Ewoks, stormtroopers, and celebrity guests.

But instead, I find myself perusing the schedule posted at the Star Wars Weekend section of Studios Central, and thinking of what my top priorities would be if, perchance, I were able to hop a flight this morning and take in a little time with the Empire and the Rebel Alliance.

If I were going, I’d remember that while getting to the Studios well before park opening is always a good idea, it’s essential if I’m interested in celebrity autographs, some of the more hotly contended limited edition merchandise, or either of the junior division events, the Jedi Training Academy or the Padawan Mind Challenge. The Training Academy and Mind Challenge fill up quicker than anyone seems to expect; when my son signed up for the latter in 2008, the whole day was filled 15 minutes after rope drop, and we saw many unhappy Padawans (and their grumpy parents) wandering away surprised after trying to sign up. And as for this year’s merchandise? The kooky pens are probably the only thing in my price range, so I’d browse through Boba’s Bounty and the Darkside Depot later in the day, when the crowds had thinned out. Which is good — that means that every morning, I could be grabbing FastPasses for one (or more?) of the celebrity hosts or guests.

I’d want to be there the first weekend in particular, so that I could be at the Studios Central meet. But really, that should go without saying. I’m sure I also don’t need to tell you about the wardrobe options available from Studios Central as well.

And I’d be sure to set aside time to attend Stars of the Saga – Star Wars Celebrity Talk Show. I must admit, it didn’t sound that appealing before I went, but my friend Hayden convinced me to go, and I’m so very glad he did! In 2008, the pre-show alone was worth it, featuring silly banter among the patrolling stormtroopers.

I must admit, this time around I might well skip the Hyperspace Hoopla at the end of the day. It was a lot of fun to boogie oogie oogie with my son and my BFF, as we watched crazy disco hijinks of the Star Wars stars, but um, yeah. Once was probably enough on that.

On the other hand, I absolutely wouldn’t miss the celebrity motorcade. And I’d have to remind myself that this is one of those rare morning parades: It kicks off at 11:40am, and it’s done 20 minutes later.

All of this, of course, if I were going. Sigh! Give Chewbacca my best, okay?