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The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is Kansas’ iconic story. Some great Sunflower State attractions celebrate the beloved tale. Published in 1900, L. Frank Baum’s masterpiece is considered America’s first fairy tale, and it holds a special place in the hearts of Kansans and Kansas Citians alike. The story of Dorothy’s fantastical journey through the land of Oz has enticed generations.
August is the month to celebrate the 85th anniversary of the classic film The Wizard of Oz. It premiered on the big screen on Aug. 12, 1939, in Wisconsin, and was aired three days later at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. The New York City premiere at Loew’s Capitol Theater on Aug. 17 was followed by a live performance by Judy Garland, and the film swept the nation on Aug. 25.
Celebrate this milestone locally at these sites:
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Miniature Land of Oz
An interactive Lego model of Oz treats guests to whimsy at Legoland Discovery Center, one of our favorite local attractions. One of the highlights of a visit is a stroll through Lego Miniland that depicts Kansas City’s most iconic buildings created entirely from Lego bricks. Best of all, the entire exhibit is interactive. Guests can control features, including racing cars at the Kansas Speedway, playing music at a Starlight concert, operating a construction crane and more! One beguiling part of the display is Miniland Oz, complete with Munchkinland, the Emerald City and the Witch’s castle. During your visit to Legoland, you can also enjoy interactive displays, two amusement park rides and the Lego 4D Cinema showing Lego short films (10-15 minutes in length) with effects of generated wind, mist, bubbles and simulated experiences kids love! LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com
An Oz-some Landmark
Take a road trip about two hours from KC to Wamego, Kansas, to find the Oz Museum (511 Lincoln). The museum features the largest collection of Oz memorabilia in the world. Admission is charged. Call 1.866.458.TOTO. For information: www.wamego.org/oz_museum.htm
Follow the Yellow Brick Road
Spend a day shopping at Legends Outlets (LegendsShopping.com)where you can follow the Yellow Brick Road. In the center of the outdoor shopping center, children love traipsing along the storied path while parents shop.
Souvenirs from the Land of Oz
Make your way to some other local stores to stock up on Oz souvenirs. Shop at the Best of Kansas City at Crown Center (CrownCenter.com), Made in KC at various locations (MadeInKC.co) and The Kansas Sampler/Rally House (RallyHouse.com) to pick up great finds, incuding Dorothy costumes, t-shirts and Oz Monopoly games.
Or, enjoy one of these special events commemorating the 85th Anniversary this month!
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Martin CIty Melodrama
Aug 2, 2024
THE WIZARD OF PAWS ! (c)
This magical re-telling of the Oz story features uniquely abled actors, their peers, community actors and their children, plus senior rescue dogs from area shelters. Written by Jeanne Beechwood and songs by Jon Copeland, this trip to Emerald City...
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Aug 21, 2024 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Movie Night at the Aztec Shawnee Theater: THE WIZARD OF OZ
Celebrate the 85th anniversary of this iconic cultural milestone, THE WIZARD OF OZ! Starring Judy Garland as Kansas farm girl Dorothy, this cinematic masterpiece premiered in August 1939 to widespread acclaim. Watch the film as it was originally ...
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Aug 24, 2024 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Legends Movie Night on the Lawn: The Wizard of Oz
Watch timeless classics and Hollywood blockbusters every Saturday through October. Bring a friend, pack some blankets, and order carryout or snacks from one of our many eateries.
