May Faire in OZ

Event Details

The Oz Experience

Immerse yourself in a cultural phenomenon with interactive performances and wandering characters:

• Balloon Rides: A View from the Emerald City: Take to the skies just like the Wizard himself ! This year, we’re bringing the most iconic mode of Ozian transport to the Mansion grounds. Rise above the tree line for a breathtaking perspective of the Smithville Park. From your vantage point, the winding paths of the Mansion grounds look just like a map of Munchkin land.

Please Note: Balloon tethered rides are weather-dependent. While we hope for nothing but “Bluebirds fly” skies, safety is our top priority! Be sure to check the boarding station for ticket information. $10 per person benefitting the Friends of the Burlington County Animal Shelter.

• Theatrical Wonders: Enjoy a Wizard of Oz play by Riddlesbrood Touring Theater and an interactive experience by the Pirates of Fortune’s Folly.
• Kansas Homestead: Before the cyclone sweeps you away to Oz, Come meet the gentle residents of the farm presented by the 4H club and Den’s Farm Friends.  It’s the kind of place where even Toto would feel right at home! 
• Cinematic Magic: Watch Oz silent films featuring a live, modern soundtrack by the Pine Barrens Synth Club.
• Whimsical Fun: Marvel at the Wizard’s Workshop Magic Show by A Couple of Magicians and experience the Magical Bubbleverse with Glinda the Good Witch, American Magic Lantern Theater, and the classic Horn’s Punch & Judy Show.

Victorian Heritage & The Smith Legacy

Explore the 1840 Smithville Mansion, once the home of inventor Hezekiah B. Smith, the man behind the American Star Bicycle.

• Mansion Tours: Step inside the stately home, decorated in period finery ($5 donation to the Friends of the Mansion).
• Vintage Sports: Catch a Vintage Baseball Exhibition Game played strictly by 1864 rules  between The Athletic Base Ball Club of Philadelphia and  the Logan Club of Lambertville.
• The Mud Experience: Get a close-up look at the “magic mud” that has prepped every ball for the Big Leagues since 1938,  Lena Blackburne Baseball Rubbing Mud!
• Historic Wheels: The New Jersey Wheelmen will showcase vintage bicycles, alongside displays of original H.B. Smith woodworking machinery.

Spring Festivities & Artisan Market

• Traditional Arts: Watch live demonstrations of blacksmithing, basketry, and spinning,
• Garden & Nature: Participate in the Spring Plant Swap, visit the Pop-Up Nature Center, or consult with Rutgers Master Gardeners.
• May Faire Traditions: Join the May Pole dance with the Millstone River Morris Dancers.
• Shopping & Dining: Browse the Artisan Marketplace for handmade treasures and refuel at a variety of local Food Trucks.

Especially for the Young (and Young at Heart)

• Tea Party: Enjoy a spot of tea with Tea-For-All before your adventure begins.
• Kids’ Crafts: Make and take home your own piece of the Yellow Brick Road or a poppy from the Emerald City.
• Carriage Rides: Experience the grounds via horse and carriage from 12 PM – 3 PM.

Admission is free for the whole family. Come suspend your everyday life and travel “over the rainbow” with us—just remember, there’s no place like Smithville Park!

Free

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