Star Wars

What is the 501st Legion?

The 501st Legion is an all-volunteer costuming group made up of over 5,600 members from 46 countries around the world! Established in 1997 in Columbia, South Carolina by Albin Johnson, the Legion is the preferred imperial costuming organization of Lucas Films, LTD. One of the primary missions of our club is to bring joy of all things Star Wars to young and old across the globe by appearing in quality theatrical Star Wars costumes. The 501st Legion has partnered with many charitable organizations throughout the years to help bring awareness and funding to their causes. Some of these organizations include The Make a Wish Foundation, Special Olympics, American Cancer Society and The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children. In 2011, the 501st Legion assisted in raising over $11,000,000 worldwide for these and many other worthy causes.

What is Required to Join?

Members must be 18 years of age or older and own a high quality costume representing any of the characters conforming to our character approval statement. You can find a list of currently recognized costumes in the visual guides section of the main 501st Legion Web Page.

There are no fees and the only requirements pertain to age and costume quality.

How do I get a costume?

Generally speaking, our members make their own costumes. To make it easier to get help with your desired project, the 501st has formed detachments focused on particular costumes. Visit our detachments page to find the right group for you! Once you've settled on a character it's just a matter of heading over to that forum, signing up, and getting help from the experts!

NOTE: Star Wars costumes that are commercially available in stores or online may not be acceptable for membership! It is recommended that you contact your Garrison Membership Liaison before purchasing a retail costume to find out if it is accepted or what modifications might be required. All this information can be obtained by visiting the www.501st.com