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The force will be with the 2016 Perkins Restaurant & Bakery Fantasy in Lights Parade in downtown Wheeling on Friday as members of Garrison Corellia, a part of the 501st Legion premier Imperial Star Wars costuming club, brings their characters to life.

This Star Wars re-enactment group beaming up for the parade consists of 20-25 members. The characters can be found on a float and walking in the parade, and are being sponsored by Panhandle Cleaning & Restoration.

The public is welcome to meet the Star Wars characters, take pictures with them and enjoy free hot chocolate and cookies during a Meet and Greet from 4:30-5:45 p.m. Friday at the corner of 14th and Market streets in downtown Wheeling. The event is sponsored by Panhandle with treats supplied by Perkins and WesBanco.

Since 1997, the 501st Legion has spread the magic of the Star Wars genre worldwide through its authentic-looking costumes, and has become the leading force in fan-based charity events. The 501st, also known as “Vader’s Fist” is dedicated to brightening the lives of those less-fortunate. Garrison Corellia covers the state of West Virginia.

According to re-enactor spokesman Jay Parsons, each member of the 501st Legion owns his or her costume, creating after much research. The majority of the costume components are hand built and assembled in their spare time. Given that the likenesses portrayed by these costumes are the intellectual property of Lucasfilm, it must be stressed that the 501st Legion does not provide or manufacture costumes for purchase.

While recognized by the inclusion of the 501st name in official Star Wars material such as books and video games, the 501st is not affiliated with Lucasfilm nor do they rely on the company for bookings, event coordination, compensation, or costuming materials.