Follow the Yellow Brick Road to Historic Smithville Park for a day full of fun and amazement during this year’s May Faire.

The annual festival returns this Sunday, May 17, and will feature a Land of Oz theme in honor of the L. Frank Baum classic tales, the iconic 1939 film and the recent Wicked movies. 

This is your chance to meet many beloved Oz characters like Dorothy, Tin Man, Scarecrow, Lion, Glinda and the Wicked Witch of the West, while also celebrating the natural beauty of Smithville and the village’s storied history.

The free event begins at 11 AM and runs until 4 PM. 

“May Faire is one of Burlington County’s premier events that showcases the beauty and history of Smithville, along with the creativity of the Burlington County Parks System’s staff and the many talented performers and artists they bring to the park,” said Burlington County Commissioner Deputy Director Allison Eckel. “Each year they succeed in transforming Smithville into a colorful storybook world with a variety of free entertainment for all ages. It’s always a fantastic event, and we expect visitors will be amazed by the attractions our parks team has planned.”

Among the Oz-themed attractions planned include live theatrical performances of the Wizard of Oz, along with opportunities to meet and interact with some of your favorite characters from the story. 

Visit Dorothy’s Kansas homestead and many of the gentle farm residents courtesy of the 4H Club and Den’s Farm Friends, and watch Oz silent films featuring a live, modern soundtrack from the Pine Barrens Synth Club.

There will also be magic shows, tours of Smithville Mansion, vintage baseball games, kids’ crafts, historic arts and crafts demonstrations, vintage bicycle displays, horse and carriage rides, food trucks, a beer garden, live music, and much more.

The event is being organized by the Burlington County Parks Division with support from the New Jersey Arts Council.

“Smithville was Burlington County’s first County park and it’s become one of the best in New Jersey because of its unique mix of natural beauty and history,” said Commissioner Randy Brolo. “May Faire is a free, family-friendly event and the perfect way to experience Smithville and all its Victorian charms, picturesque woods, and gardens. There’s no other place like it.”