On May 4, 2026, the Fort Wayne City Clerk’s Office will offer free marriage officiation services to couples looking to tie the knot on Star Wars Day.
Fort Wayne City Clerk news release:
City Clerk’s Office to Offer Free Marriage Officiation on Star Wars Day
May the Fourth: This IS the Event You’re Looking ForFort Wayne, Indiana (April 14, 2026) — Engaged you are? Marry you, we will.
On Monday, May 4, the Fort Wayne City Clerk’s Office will offer a service everyone will have a good feeling about – free marriage officiation services to couples looking to tie the knot on Star Wars Day.
Marriage ceremonies will be available from 10 a.m. to Noon and again from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Appointments will be scheduled in 20-minute increments on a first-come, first-served basis.
“Government services should be accessible, meaningful, and occasionally a little bit of fun,” said Fort Wayne City Clerk John McGauley. “Offering free weddings on May 4th lets us celebrate love, help people begin their lives together and pay tribute to a day so many people enjoy.”
Members of the Northern Darkness Garrison, Northern Indiana’s premiere Star Wars costuming group, will be on hand for the event. The Northern Darkness Garrison represents Northern Indiana in the 501st Legion, a worldwide charitable organization that promotes interest in Star Wars and Star Wars costuming while giving back to their communities through volunteering, fundraising and other charitable activities.
Couples interested in participating should call (260) 427-1221 to schedule an appointment. Staff will collect basic information in advance to ensure all arrangements and paperwork are prepared prior to the event.
Because appointments will be scheduled back-to-back throughout the available time windows, participants are asked to arrive 5–10 minutes early to check in. Due to space limitations, wedding parties will be limited to the individuals getting married plus up to four guests.
Ceremonies will take place in the first-floor atrium on the west end of Citizens Square, located at 200 E. Berry St. in downtown Fort Wayne. As Citizens Square will remain open to the public during regular business hours, attendees are encouraged to dress in business-casual or comparable attire. Themed costumes are also welcome.
“Whether you are a devoted fan of the Star Wars franchise or just looking for a really easy to remember anniversary date, this IS the event you’re looking for,” McGauley added.
Prior to their scheduled ceremony, couples must obtain a valid Indiana marriage license from the Allen County Clerk of the Courts, located in Room 201 of the Allen County Courthouse. Information on obtaining a marriage license can be found on the Clerk’s web site.
While there is a $25 fee to obtain a marriage license ($65 for non-Indiana residents), officiation by the Fort Wayne City Clerk’s Office will be provided at no charge.
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