I turned five in 1977, but missed seeing STAR WARS on the big screen (same with EMPIRE), but did get to see JEDI at the cinema in late 1983.
I discovered STAR WARS through the original KENNER 3 & 3/4 inch action figures (around 1978 / 79). My first KENNER figure was Luke Skywalker: X-Wing Pilot in 1979.
STAR WARS (and the two sequels) were H-U-G-E back then. The merchandise was everywhere.
If you were lucky enough to be taken to a department store’s well-stocked toy section by your parents, the KENNER figures and accessories were everywhere. The little plastic dudes & dudettes were as common as flies.
A fantastic time to be alive (for a child). It was a pleasure to have lived through the original STAR WARS hoopla.