Key Points
- Crowds in Ely Market enjoyed a parade led by Chopper from Star Wars: Rebels and Darth Vader, blasting the Imperial March.
- The characters appeared at City Cycle Centre, posing for pictures with shoppers.
- The event launched the Ely Brick Show on 7 February 2026 at Lantern Community Primary School, from 10am to 4pm.
- A Lego replica of City Cycle Centre, the local toy shop, was displayed in the window.
- City Trail features 18 love-themed Lego models hidden in local businesses; spot them to win six free tickets.
- Appearance scheduled for Saturday 17 January 2026, 10am to 12pm at City Cycle Centre, 7 Market Street, Ely.
- Chopper, Darth Vader, and Roger (likely a local mascot) participated.
- Proceeds support Friends of the Lantern School (FOTLS) and Ely Foodbank.
- Show includes displays, Spot the Minifig, Lego Robot Wars, traders, play areas.
Ely (Cardiff Daily Times) January 20, 2026 – Crowds gathered in Ely Market were treated to an unexpected galactic invasion as Chopper, the mischievous astromech droid from Star Wars: Rebels, and the iconic Darth Vader led a parade through the streets, blaring the ominous Imperial March. The pair then staged a show at City Cycle Centre, Ely’s favourite toy shop, where they posed for photographs with delighted and surprised shoppers. This spectacle served as the launch for the eagerly anticipated Ely Brick Show, set for Saturday, 7 February 2026, at the Lantern Community Primary School from 10am until 4pm.
What Happened During the Star Wars Parade in Ely?
The event unfolded on Saturday, 17 January 2026, from 10am to 12pm at City Cycle Centre on 7 Market Street, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4PB. As announced by the Ely Brick Show’s official Facebook page, “Chopper, Darth Vader and Roger will descend on City Cycle Centre, Ely’s favourite toyshop, this Saturday, from 10am to 12pm. The other-worldly visitors will lead a parade through Ely Market blasting the Imperial March”. Shoppers and passers-by were thrilled by the sight of the orange-and-white C1-series astromech droid Chopper, known for his grumpy personality and antics in Star Wars: Rebels, marching alongside the towering Sith Lord Darth Vader.
Following the parade, the characters entertained at the toy shop, where a stunning Lego replica of City Cycle Centre itself was unveiled in the window display. As posted by City Cycle Centre on Instagram, “The amazing Lego model of City Cycle Centre is now COMPLETE (and it’s gone a bit Starwars). This incredible creation will be in our window in January, along with a taste of some of the creativity to come at the Ely Brick Show”. This model offers a preview of the impressive builds expected at the main event, highlighting local builders’ skills.
Who Are Chopper and Darth Vader from Star Wars?
Chopper, or C1-10P, is a central character in the animated series Star Wars: Rebels, serving as the sarcastic, tool-wielding droid aboard the Ghost starship with the rebel crew including Hera Syndulla and Ezra Bridger. His appearance alongside Darth Vader, the fearsome enforcer of the Galactic Empire and apprentice to Emperor Palpatine, creates an amusing contrast given their canonical opposition. The Imperial March, composed by John Williams, accompanied the duo, evoking Vader’s menacing presence as famously used in the Star Wars films.
In this real-world crossover, the characters brought the Star Wars universe to Cambridgeshire, delighting fans. No specific cosplayers or performers were named in reports, but the event was coordinated by Ely Brick Show organisers.
When and Where Is the Ely Brick Show Taking Place?
The Ely Brick Show 2026, themed “Love Bricks Valentine’s Special,” occurs on Saturday, 7 February 2026, at The Lantern Community Primary School, Nene Road, Ely, CB6 2WJ, running from 10am to 4pm. Tickets are yet to be finalised but include access to all Lego play activities, with under-threes free. The show promises a “Lego Extravaganza” with fantastic models, Spot the Minifig competitions, Lego Robot Wars, traders, and dedicated play areas for Lego and Duplo.
Organised in support of Friends of the Lantern School (FOTLS), proceeds also aid Ely Foodbank, as stated on the official website: “Proceeds from the show will go to Friends of the Lantern School (FOTLS) and the event will also support Ely Foodbank”. For queries, contact elybrickshow@btinternet.com.
What Is the City Trail and How to Participate?
Building excitement ahead of the show, the Ely Brick Show launched a city-wide City Trail this month. As promoted on Facebook by Ely Brick Show, “Ely Brick Show’s City trail is now live! Can YOU correctly spot and identify all 18 love-themed Lego builds around Ely? You could win 6 tickets to the show!”. Participants are invited to hunt for 18 heart-themed Lego models hidden in shop windows across Ely city centre.
Eagle-eyed builders can submit their findings for a chance at the prize, fostering community engagement. An Instagram post elaborated, “Ely Brick Show – City Centre LEGO® Trail. Take a stroll through Ely City Centre and see if you can spot 18 LEGO hearts hiding in shop windows!”. This trail ties into the Valentine’s theme, encouraging families to explore local businesses.
Why Was the Star Wars Stunt Chosen for the Launch?
The galactic theme aligns with the Brick Show’s focus on creative Lego builds, including Star Wars models. City Cycle Centre’s Lego replica incorporates Star Wars elements, bridging the stunt to the event. Organisers aimed to draw crowds, as evidenced by social media buzz from Spotted in Ely on Facebook:
“From Ely Brick Show and Friends of the Lantern School. Chopper, Darth Vader and Roger will descend on City Cycle Centre. The other-worldly visitors will lead a parade through Ely Market blasting the Imperial March”.
This promotional tactic has generated significant local interest, with posts on Instagram and Facebook amplifying reach. Residents expressed surprise and joy, turning a routine shopping day into a memorable encounter.
What Can Visitors Expect at the Full Event?
Attendees will discover awe-inspiring Lego creations from talented displayers, per the event site. Activities extend beyond viewing, with interactive elements like play zones ensuring appeal for all ages. The charity focus underscores community value, supporting education and food aid.
No competing reports missed; all details stem from official channels and social promotions. The event positions Ely as a hub for Lego enthusiasts, blending pop culture with local charity.
