Children’s Fairyland provides a safe, screen-free space for all children to learn, grow, and play. The park boasts 40 whimsical fairytale-themed exhibits, the oldest continuously operating puppet theater in the United States, gentle animals, and eight acres of lush gardens. We offer family friendly performances and educational programs all year long that celebrate and enrich our Oakland community.

Fairyland has seen significant shifts in focus and priorities in recent years. Guided by our strategic plan, we are integrating more diverse stories in our core programs. Daily original puppet shows are one of the most popular park experiences, and we are collaborating with cultural consultants and native voice actors to produce authentic cultural tales that make every child feel seen and represented. Our community programs include a year-round calendar of cultural heritage events featuring performers, crafts, and food; book celebrations highlighting local authors and a rich tapestry of stories; and a lighthearted cooking series that pairs Fairyland’s puppet mascot with guest chefs to take families on cultural culinary adventures.

We strengthened what we offer field trip participants, with the launch of a curriculum-based preschool puppet workshop that will soon make its way to Oakland classrooms. The program complements our Fairyland Flora & Fauna program serving early elementary classes. We are telling stories that celebrate differences, and reaching more under-resourced youth through our Children’s Theatre program, Youth Writers Workshop, weekly Toddler Storytimes, and Summer Day Camps. We employ and train about 30 Park Ambassadors each year, mostly young Oaklanders of color, to develop professional skills that will help them on their life’s journey.

Taken together, all the elements of Fairyland combine to serve as a vital resource for children and families to help them prepare for school, develop emotionally within a supportive community, and unleash their creativity.