Buy a Children's Fairyland
Gift & Greeting Card

Business Description

Located on the shores of Lake Merritt in Oakland, California, Children's Fairyland is America's first storybook theme park. This nonprofit community organization offers a magical environment for children and families to play, imagine, learn, and create. With its fairy tale sets, fantasy attractions, performing arts, animals, and unique programming, this park has been a beloved destination for children since it opened in 1950.

Children's Fairyland was built with the support of Oakland's parks superintendent, William Penn Mott Jr., along with the Lake Merritt Breakfast Club and Oakland citizens, who raised $50,000 for its construction. The park's storybook sets were created by local architect William Russell Everitt, while Arthur Navlet designed the gardens, some of which still thrive today.

The park's history is rich with noteworthy moments, including Walt Disney's visit in 1955, when he incorporated ideas from Fairyland into his "magic kingdom" in Anaheim. Disney also hired Fairyland's first executive director, Dorothy Manes, and one of its puppeteers, Bob Mills. In 1956, Burton Weber created a program for young children called Fairyland Personalities, which is now the park's Children's Theatre Program.

Today, Children's Fairyland continues to be a joyful place for children to learn, play, and explore. Oswald the Elf, a park staple, sits on a giant mushroom in front of a pumpkin and blows bubbles out of his over-sized pipe. Children dance and play, popping bubbles and laughing together.

With modest admission prices, Children's Fairyland is one of the most affordable family entertainment options in the Bay Area. It's a place where children can experience the magic of fairy tales and let their imaginations run wild. So whether you're a local or a visitor to the area, be sure to stop by Children's Fairyland for a truly enchanting experience.

Gift Ideas for Children's Fairyland

If you're looking for a gift that's sure to delight any child, look no further than Children's Fairyland in Oakland, California. This magical storybook theme park has been a beloved destination for children since it opened in 1950, and it offers a wide variety of gifts that are perfect for any occasion.

One of the most popular gifts from Children's Fairyland is their collection of fairy tale books. These beautifully illustrated books are a great way to introduce children to the magical world of fairy tales and help them develop a love of reading. From classic tales like Cinderella and Snow White to more modern stories like The Princess and the Frog, there's a book here for every child.

Another great gift option is a Fairyland puppet. These high-quality puppets are based on the park's most beloved characters, including King Arthur, the Mad Hatter, and of course, Oswald the Elf. They're perfect for imaginative play and will provide hours of entertainment for any child.

If you're looking for a more unique gift, consider purchasing a personalized brick in the park's Storybook Land. These bricks can be engraved with a child's name or a special message, and they're a great way to commemorate a special occasion like a birthday or graduation.

Finally, don't forget about the park's collection of stuffed animals. From unicorns and dragons to rabbits and bears, there's a stuffed animal here for every child. These soft and cuddly friends are sure to become treasured companions for years to come.

No matter what gift you choose from Children's Fairyland, you can be sure it will bring a smile to any child's face. So whether you're celebrating a birthday, graduation, or any other special occasion, be sure to visit this magical park for the perfect gift.

Great Activities to Gift Nearby