Wizard of Oz Street Fair at Garland District

"We're not in Kansas anymore Toto, we're on Garland."

I grew up reading L. Frank Baum's Wizard of Oz books, faithfully watched the movie with Judy Garland every year on television, and sing along to the cast album of Wicked. So when the Garland District announced that its 5th Annual Street Fair would have a Wizard of Oz theme, I began brushing off my black pointed hat and witch shoes. Well, it does make sense. The strip of shops and businesses roughly between Howard and Monroe Streets includes the Tin Man Art Gallery, The Ruby Slipper, and the Garland movie theater (for showings of Judy Garland's classic).

The big day is Saturday, August 11 from 10a-8p. Well, until past midnight if you count the midnight showing of The Wizard of Oz at the Garland Theater - the other showing is at 3 p.m. Some free tickets to the 3p showing are available, "ask how at the information booth And imitate either Dorothy or Toto and you or your pet could win one of two contests.

Judy Garland Impersonator Contest: How's your Somewhere Over the Rainbow? Music is provided; show up in costume and sing your heart out to win the prize. Contest is after the movie showing, outside the Garland Theater at 5p. To sign up in advance, please email Sean at Quinn Advertising, sean@quinngroup.com.

Toto Look-A-Like Contest: This is open to all four-legged critters. Your dog, your cat, your iguana... Sign up pets at 11:30a at the Garland Animal Clinic, 623 W Garland. Contest takes place at noon.

At 6p, the stage outside the Garland Theater is turned over to one of KPBX's favorite local bands, The Celtic Nots. No word if the trio has some L. Frank Baum-inspired music in their repertoire, but I wouldn't be surprised if Carlos Alden has something up his sleeve.

Crafts: Kids can make a Glinda Wand or a Lollipop Kids (Munchkins) lollipop, a Tin Can Man, their own lion tail, and tissue paper poppies. They can also have their face painted.
Teen and Older: Volunteers will help make a Munchkin pin or a Ruby Red Slipper magnet.

The Spokesman-Review wrote a story about the Garland District recently, including why street fairs like this are helpful to business communities. Full disclosure: I'm very partial to Garland for several reasons, including the amazing assistance KPBX gets from Dave Sams and Garland Printing.