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Image: Star Wars characters
Lefteris Pitarakis  /  AP
Darth Vader, accompanied by storm trooper characters from George Lucas' "Star Wars" movies, parades in Leicester Square in central London, on May 16, 2005. The events took place surrounding the British premiere of the film "Star Wars Episode III, Revenge of the Sith," the last in the series.
updated 12/14/2006 5:22:14 PM ET 2006-12-14T22:22:14

Not long from now, in our very own galaxy, the “Star Wars Spectacular” will bring an intergalactic spirit — and 200 storm troopers — to the 118th annual Tournament of Roses parade.

Grand Marshal George Lucas will be accompanied by two “Star Wars”-themed floats and an army of costumed storm troopers. Lucas, 62, invited the evil soldiers (costumed superfans from all over the world) to march with him during the New Year’s Day parade in Pasadena.

The storm troopers belong to a fan club called the 501st Legion, which boasts 3,000 members who appear at fundraisers and charitable events. Members create their own costumes, which can cost up to $1,000 each.

Other “Star Wars” characters will ride floats in the parade. Four Ewoks will be aboard the Forest Moon of Endor float, from the “Star Wars: Episode VI — Return of the Jedi” era. The Naboo: The Garden Planet float, from the recent “Star Wars” trilogy, will carry three Queens of Naboo and two Jedi protectors.

© 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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