Jedi knights, storm troopers and Sith assassins will soon be conducting a friendly takeover of Welland city hall.

The characters of arguably the most popular movie franchise of all time will come to life in the Rose City downtown for the second annual Star Wars event and toy show on May 24. The entire event was spearheaded last year by Rob D'Onofrio for the 30th anniversary of the original Star Wars title, A New Hope.

D'Onofrio's basement looks more like a movie museum than a lounge area. Among original figurines and a life-size Darth Vadar costume, he boasts a master replica imperial blaster, one of only 2,500 made, worth about $500.

He began collecting memorabilia after seeing the second Star Wars film, The Empire Strikes Back, his favourite of the six movies.

"Right now, it brings back memories of when I was a kid," said D'Onofrio. "It keeps me young. I enjoy it as a hobby."

This year's show will host three vendors, who will be selling common Star Wars toys and items that everyone can afford, said D'Onofrio. The day starts at 12:30 p.m. in city hall's community room. The Empire Strikes Back will be shown on a large screen with free popcorn.

The event is free and has been given support from Welland's 150th anniversary committee. Free mini-lightsabers made of foam will be given to children on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Special guests the 501st Canadian Garrison will be on hand. The group dresses in full costume of characters from the films.

Raffle tickets will be drawn for prizes including toys and original Star Wars artwork. All proceeds from the $5 tickets goes toward the Help a Child Smile charity.

D'Onofrio said you don't need to be a Star Wars fanatic like him to enjoy the day. "Last year went better than I planned," he said. "Lots of people attended and didn't know what to expect."