On September 18, 19 and 20, Wizard of Oz fans will celebrate the 109-year old book and the 70-year old movie during the magical 28th Wizard of Oz Festival in Chesterton.

Duneland Business Initiative Group is presenting the two-and-a-half day weekend Festival packed full of events, activities, contests, entertainment and its famous parade. This year’s theme is “There’s No Place Like Home,” and the Festival’s web site is www.OzFestivalChesterton.com

There is no admission charge to the festival. While many of the events are free, some special events do have an admission charge.

Events during the festival have been planned for everyone. They start on Friday afternoon and don't stop until the close on Sunday afternoon. Events begin with the autograph sessions on Friday afternoon with autograph sessions at the local businesses.

From 2 to 4 p.m., shops and restaurants in historic downtown Chesterton will have the official Oz characters and celebrities available for autographs. Visit with Michael Siewert showing off his collection of Judy Garland’s original gowns; be in awe of the Oz characters created by sculptor and artist Tim Wolak; Greet Roger and Robert Baum, great-grandsons of L. Frank Baum and their wives Charlene and Clare; Get to know Caren Marsh-Doll, Judy Garland’s stand-in for the MGM movie; Greet Munchkin Trumpeter Karl Slover, as well as Mary Ellen St. Aubin and Myrna Swensen, both wives of Munchkin soldiers; reminisce about the 1939 movie with Flower Pot Lady Munchkin Margaret Pellegrini and Lollipop Kid Jerry Maren.

On Saturday, September 19, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., meander around and shop at artisan and crafter booths, which include plenty of Oz memorabilia. And, enjoy varieties of entrees and snacks from local restaurants and non-profit organizations.

At 10 a.m., individuals can jump right in and join the 28th Wizard of Oz Festival Parade.

Janet Davies, of 190 North on ABC-TV, will be this year’s Grand Marshal. The Munchkins will drive in golf carts, while floats and convertibles carry other celebrities. Indiana National Guard members are among the bands that will march. Those who have a talent are asked to use it. Those with a costume, uniform or Oz hat, wear it. This is the event to show off one’s enthusiasm for everything Oz.

Throughout Saturday afternoon, children can enjoy the Munchkin Kid Zone being kicked off by young blues guitarist Chris Pabon. They can be awed by ventriloquist Princess Ozma and her puppets and intrigued with Robert and Clare Baum’s costumed historic performance based on Roger and Robert Baum’s great-grandfather L. Frank Baum, author of the “Wizard of Oz”. At the same time, young area musicians will be performing throughout the day.

From noon - 1:30 p.m. one can “Picnic In Oz.” The event is free - Just pack a lunch or pick up a bite to eat from the many local food vendors. Children can be fascinated to meet, and be invited to pose with, the official Oz characters. Bring a camera.

Munchkin and celebrity autograph sessions will take place at the Flower Cart (Indiana and Calumet) from 1 - 4 p.m. A $5 ticket includes one autograph. All other autographs are $5 each.

Contests for the Crazy Oz Hat and Scarecrow Building will be hosted by local businesses. The Dorothy Braid event will take place throughout the day, as will the local merchants’ “Guess How Many” contests.

Don’t miss the tough competition at the “Look-A-Like Contests” hosted by local merchants at Thomas Centennial Park’s bandstand on Saturday from 1 - 3:15 p.m. There will be dozens of Dorothys, Tin Men, Cowardly Lions, Winged Monkeys, Wicked Witches, Scarecrows, Glindas, Favorite Munchkins and Totos too.

Then, directly following, from 3:30 to 5 p.m., festival goers will be entertained at the Bandstand by the semi-finalists for the “Oz Idol Karaoke contest.”

The always-exciting Oz Exchange & Auction will be held at Duneland Falls Banquet and Meeting Center, 1100 North Max Mochal Highway (SR 149) in Chesterton, from 7 to 10 p.m.

From 6 - 9 p.m., teenagers can kick up their heels during their very own “OzMopolitan Teen Dance,” held at the Moose Club at 602 Broadway. Performing teen dance bands include State Park and TBA.

The fun begins at 9 a.m. Sunday with the Brunch with the Munchkins at the Porter VFW Post. There will be food, entertainment, door prizes, and autograph opportunities. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

The downtown vendor booths open Sunday at 10 a.m. and continue until 4 p.m. Again, the Kids Zone will be providing fun and entertainment.

The park will host more contests in the afternoon.

Oz finals begin at 1:30 p.m. in the park. The Festival Shop will be open for all to vote on Oz of Cakes, visit with Tim Wolak, and to buy souveniers. At 3:30 p.m., winners of the Oz of Cakes, the raffles, and Oz Idol will be announced.

Sadly, the festival will then close at 4 p.m. with the traditional singing of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” led by John Fricke.

For information: www.ozfestivalchesterton.com

 or 926-9900.

Posted 9/18/2009