Star Wars Sleepover Helps Community

A Star Wars-themed sleepover at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! in Times Square celebrated the release of “Star Wars Episode I in 3-D” and raised funds for a nonprofit organization that benefits local families.

Stormtrooper with Tuffy Tiger puppet

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! hosted a sleepover extravaganza for kids 6 and older Feb. 10-11, featuring Star Wars-themed characters and activities.

The event celebrated the release of “Star Wars Episode I in 3-D” and doubled as a charity event, raising more than $2,000 for the Brooklyn-based nonprofit Puppetry Arts, a community arts organization that offers free puppet-making workshops, public performances, family activities, and volunteer opportunities for teens.

The Times Square attraction welcomed special guests from the 501st Empire City Garrison (one member, dressed as a Stormtrooper, is pictured here with Tuffy Tiger of Puppetry Arts) and the Echo Base Rebel Legion Star Wars Costume Volunteers. Beyond Ripley’s collection of astonishing oddities and interactive exhibits, guests enjoyed a scavenger hunt, pizza dinner, laser tag, and made Yoda masks, Wookie cookies, and C3P0 paper bag puppets. All were encouraged to dress as their favorite Star Wars characters to vie for first prize in a costume contest.