It’s time for Jedis, Mandalorians, and droids to come together for a day of fun in the sun — and a good cause. This year, the Canyons Education Foundation’s annual Fun Run will be held on the biggest Star Wars day of them all, Saturday, May 4.

That’s right, “May the 4th be with you” and all those who choose to participate in the 5k run benefitting CSD’s Unified Sports program. There is also a one-mile option.

“We felt this would be such a great opportunity, because Unified Sports is all about inclusion, we can get people together, do something active and fun with our special needs students, mentoring students, everyone can come together and raise funds so we can continue this great program,” says Canyons Education Foundation Development Officer, Denise Haycock.

The Star Wars-themed run will kick off Saturday with an 8 a.m. check in on the track at Jordan High School, 95 Beetdigger Blvd. in Sandy. We’ll be joined by the 501st Legion and the Rebel Rebellion — two groups of decked out Star Wars characters — as well as a special surprise guest of Star Wars fame. Participants are encouraged to come in their own costumes, but leave all Wookiees (pets) at home.

Registration for each participant is $25 and comes with a race bib, themed crossbody/fanny pack, and refreshments at the finish line. There will also be a DJ and face painting.

All proceeds will go toward Unified Sports in Canyons School District, which promotes social inclusion through shared sports experiences by students with and without intellectual disabilities.

“It gives these kids a chance to get a uniform, be part of a team, and participate in a tournament,” says Haycock. “It also gives the mentors who are helping the special needs students a chance to be leaders and show their kindness, bringing inclusivity to our schools.”

The 5k race will start promptly at 8:30 a.m. Runners will line up at the starting line on the Jordan High track and follow a south-bound route along the Porter Rockwell Trail before returning to the track for the big finish. The one-mile race will start shortly after the 5K and take place entirely on the Jordan track.

To register for this year’s Fun Run, click here. As always – May the force be with you.