Do you have enough courage to venture outside of the city this weekend? Enough heart? Enough brains? OK, we’ll stop, but seriously, the “Wizard of Oz” Festival is the most exciting thing to hit town since that fateful Kansas twister.
The “Wizard of Oz” Festival, which originated in Chesterton, Ind. in 1982, is making its way to the Chicagoland area in Tinley Park. The festival will run from Friday, Aug. 4 to Sunday, Aug. 6.
Throughout the three days, “Wizard of Oz” themed activities, including character shows, crafts, readings and a costume contest will be aplenty. Attractions will include a recreated yellow brick road, inflatables, hay rides, duck races, a petting zoo, corn cannons, a corn box (think: a giant sandbox but with corn), a zip-line and a cow train. “Wizard of Oz” characters will also be available for photos.
While at the fest, you can compete in an “Over the Rainbow” or “King of the Forest” singing contest, a witch-cackling contest and a pie eating contest.
Speakers throughout the fest include John Fricke, a “Wizard of Oz” and Judy Garland historian, film critic Ryan Jay, Emma Ridley, who acted in the live-action sequel to the “Wizard of Oz” and Mary Ellen St. Aubin, who married a “munchkin” from the film.
Don’t fall asleep in the poppy fields and miss out on this unique festival. Tickets are $10 at the door. For more information on the schedule of events visit midwestozfest.com.
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