Burlington County officials announced on May 12 that the annual May Faire festival will return to Historic Smithville Park this Sunday, May 17, with a Land of Oz theme inspired by L. Frank Baum’s classic stories and related films.
The event is intended to showcase both the natural beauty and historical significance of Smithville while offering themed entertainment for visitors of all ages. The festival is free and will run from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m., featuring opportunities to meet characters such as Dorothy, Tin Man, Scarecrow, Lion, Glinda, and the Wicked Witch of the West.
“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 scheduled activities are live theatrical performances based on The Wizard of Oz story, interactive character experiences, tours through Dorothy’s Kansas homestead featuring farm animals from local organizations like the 4H Club and Den’s Farm Friends, silent film screenings accompanied by live music from Pine Barrens Synth Club, magic shows, mansion tours, vintage baseball games, arts demonstrations including crafts for children, bicycle displays from past eras, horse-drawn carriage rides, food trucks and beer garden areas.
The event is organized by Burlington County Parks Division with support from 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… There’s no other place like it.”
Historic Smithville Park covers more than 300 acres including forests meadows streams wetlands according to the official website. The county itself encompasses over 800 square miles across three cities six boroughs thirty-one townships governed by five at-large commissioners also per the official website.
