Oakland's cherished fairy tale park commemorates its 75th anniversary, enchanting stories for generations.
Celebrate 75 Years of Magic at Children’s Fairyland in Oakland
On Monday, September 1, 2025, Children’s Fairyland in Oakland, California, will be celebrating a milestone birthday. This beloved storybook park, which opened on September 2, 1950, has been enchanting children and adults alike for 75 years.
Nestled on the shores of Oakland’s Lake Merritt, Children’s Fairyland is an integral part of the city’s cultural fabric. As Peter Gamez, president and CEO of Visit Oakland, emphasizes, the park’s accessibility makes it a must-visit destination for families and tourists alike.
Within its 10-acre grounds, Children’s Fairyland offers a whimsical world inspired by classic fairy tales. Visitors can explore Pinocchio’s Castle, The Three Little Pigs, and many other enchanting play sets. Small rides and animals add to the magical experience, creating a truly unique and memorable atmosphere.
One of the park’s most notable features is its original Magic Key and Talking Storybook Boxes. Invented by Bruce Sedley, an Oakland TV personality, these interactive storytelling systems revolutionized the way stories were told, and their innovative design was later adopted by zoos and children’s parks nationwide.
Children’s Fairyland is also home to the oldest running puppet theater in America. The park's annual Puppet Fair celebrates puppetry as both an art form and educational platform, and has been doing so since 1956. This legendary puppetry attraction is a major draw for visitors of all ages.
It's worth noting that Children’s Fairyland's influence extends beyond Oakland. Walt Disney, who visited the park in the early 1950s, a year before opening Disneyland, was inspired by Children’s Fairyland's storybook theme and family-friendly design. This early encounter helped shape Disney’s vision of a family amusement park appealing to all ages.
Beyond daytime family activities, Children’s Fairyland offers adult-oriented nighttime events, including music, arts, and a full bar for ages 21 and up. These events broaden the park’s appeal while maintaining its storybook charm, making it a popular destination for both children and adults.
In the words of Kymberly Miller, CEO of Children’s Fairyland, “We encourage adults to visit and relive their childhood.” By doing so, they can create new memories and celebrate the power of imagination and creativity that Children’s Fairyland has been fostering for 75 years.
For further information about Children’s Fairyland, including upcoming events and ticket information, please visit their website. The park is easily accessible via BART, bus, and parking. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, a child or an adult, Children’s Fairyland offers a magical experience that will be cherished for years to come.
Read also:
- Benadryl: Impact on Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Beyond
- Affordable Luxury and Economy Converge in the 2025 Lexus LBX: Compact luxury car unites budget-friendly pricing, efficiency
- Company manufacturing Plumpy'Nut is thrilled beyond belief!
- Enhancements to Networking in Senior Care, Fedding Positive Experiences for Service Providers and Elderly Residents
