Local

Orlando Star Wars convention draws tens of thousands of fans

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Star Wars convention in Orlando has become one of the largest in the country, bringing people from all over the world to the city to attend.

The line outside the Orlando Convention Center wrapped around the building, with some fans spending the night in line so they could be one of the first inside.

This is the third time Orlando has hosted the convention and residents would like to see it become a permanent event in the city.

Thursday’s event included an emotional tribute to Star Wars icon Carrie Fisher, who died in December.

Some of the biggest Star Wars names showed up at the convention Thursday, including George Lucas, Mark Hamill and even a surprise visit by Harrison Ford.

Experts estimate the convention will inject $40 million into Orlando’s economy.

Event planners said Saturday has already sold out, which has never happened before in the convention’s history.

The Star Wars convention runs through Sunday.

For more information on tickets, visit ICFlorida.com.