Forest Moon Festival, Star Wars connection a big success

May the Force Be with you.

Indeed, it was when the first ever Forest Moon Festival in Del Norte County took place, June 2-3. The Festival celebrated the 40th anniversary of Return of the Jedi, filmed at the Jedidiah Smith Redwoods State Park.

Activities for all who love Star Wars filled the weekend. Day 1 featured an afternoon, guided Forest E-Wok walk through Redwood National Park and Simpson Reed Trail.

The evening featured the outdoor showing of Return of the Jedi on a special screen under the stars at Beachfront Park.

Saturday’s activities included a rebel training challenge obstacle course, costume contest and festival, with a galaxy-style DJ, assortment of booths and lots of great food.

The costume parade included ages groups for kids 12 and under, young adults 12-17, adults, and pets.

Several different photo opportunities with Moon Festival partners featuring all the Star Wars characters were situated at various venues, including  the Crescent City-Del Norte County Visitor Center, Beachfront Park, Howonquet Village in Smith River,  Sea Quake Brewing, Tsunami Lanes, Enoteca Café, Port O’Pints Brewing, Redwood Hotel Casino in Klamath Rumiano Cheese, Hiouchi Café and the Yurok Country Visitor Center All week-end long these special photo postings were set up with Darth Vader. Luke Skywalker, Yoda, R2-D2. Hans Solo,  Chewbacca, Princess Leia, an Eeok  and a storm trooper.

The extremely well-planned events took place under ideal weather conditions.