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Star Wars Fest 10 returns to Rio Rancho this weekend
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Star Wars Fest is returning to Rio Rancho this weekend.
The 10th edition of the popular event is 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at Loma Colorado Main Library and promises to be “bigger and better than ever.”
"The Rio Rancho Public Library has always been interested in offering events that capture the popular imagination," Director of Rio Rancho Library and Information Services Jason Shoup said. "In the past, the Library did events around Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Hunger Games, and similar themes. However, when the Library offered its first Star Wars themed event in 2013, the community response was unprecedented. This led to it becoming an annual celebration, rather than a one-off event."
Attendees at this year's free event will be able to meet their favorite Star Wars characters courtesy of the 501st and Rebel Legions, test their skills at Light Saber Training camp, go on a Porg scavenger hunt and more.
Star Wars Fest 10 offers attendees a chance to collect seven unique badges as they make their way through the Jedi Stations.
These stations are:
• Lightsaber Creation: Create your own lightsaber using pool noodles, tape and a little creativity. Crafting your lightsaber and displaying it for the Jedi Station Keeper will earn you a badge here.
• Porg Watching: Porgs have been set loose in the library. First, you must check in with the Jedi Station Keeper, then go Porg sightseeing. Make sure you return to the Jedi Station Keeper to earn a badge.
• Jedi Obstacle Training Grounds: Bring your newly crafted lightsaber and make your way through the training grounds. Successfully complete the training and report to the Jedi Station Keeper to earn your badge.
• Droid Station: Part of the empire or rebellion, everyone needs to know how to fix a droid. It is a skill necessary for a padwan to master. Complete this station and present your droid to the Jedi Station Master to earn your badge.
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• Kyber Crystal Harvesting: Kyber Crystals are at the heart of every lightsaber. Craft your own Kyber Crystal Vial at this station. To earn your badge, present your completed vial to the Jedi Station Master.
• Cantina – Every young jedi needs to keep their stamina up. Stop by the cantina to enjoy free snacks, drinks and your cantina badge.
• Ears and Buns – Do or do not, there is no try. Create your own Yoda Ears or Princess Leia Buns. Once you’ve channeled your inner leader, don your ears (or buns) and present yourself to the Jedi Station Keeper.
There will also be a photo opportunity with the Dewback Ridge Garrison of the 501st Legion.
Attendees are encouraged to come donned in their best Star Wars regalia to enjoy the fun, refreshments, activities and a chance to win one of three grand-prize raffle baskets.
Star Wars fans of all ages are welcome. Shoup said over 1,000 people attended the event last year and even more are expected on Saturday.
Star Wars Fest is organized by the city of Rio Rancho Library and Information Services Department.
"The library staff do such an amazing job putting this event together," Shoup said. "Star Wars Fest is a fantastic, no-cost, way to spend a Saturday morning. Fans can meet their favorite characters from the 501st and Rebel Legions, take home a foam light-saber, build a droid and more. And everyone is encouraged to dress up and join the fun."
