October 5th, 2013 marks the 20th anniversary of a little-known festival that takes place at North Carolina’s formerly-abandoned Land of Oz amusement park. The park used to be derlict, but now it's being lovingly restored. It's also on private property and closed the rest of the year. It opens its doors to the public just once a year for “Autumn at Oz,” where former employees and past park visitors reminisce about this weird little Wizard of Oz theme park.
The Land of Oz theme park was open from 1970 to 1980 and it’s opening day saw over 20,000 visitors. Guests enjoyed strolling down the Yellow Brick Road, and hanging out with the Cowardly Lion, Scarecrow, Tin Man and the Wicked Witch of the West. Afterwards, there was a show at the Emerald City, complete with a balloon ride, which was actually a modified ski lift. Visitors could enjoy a breathtaking view of the park amidst Beech Mountain’s gorgeous scenery. Unfortunately the death of the original owner before the park opened and a mysterious fire in 1975 marred the initial success of the park and it closed suddenly in 1980. Now, the Yellow Brick Road is missing a few of its bricks, but most of the park is still there, and as stated before is being restored and is on private property.
The park is open once a year for a reunion of former employees and past guests, called “Autumn at Oz.” In 2009, over 8,000 people attended. Every year more characters return and more vendors show up. So, if you’re in the area, drop by for a stroll through the poppy field. [Emerald Mtn]
Photos via MadFishX
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