Chandler’s founder, Dr. Alexander J. Chandler, was one of the first to bring ostriches to the area, beginning a colorful local history of ostrich farming. In honor of this historical fact, the Chandler Chamber of Commerce Ostrich Festival was first held in 1988, and has since become one of the premier festivals in the Southwest. This year, the tradition continues with the Ostrich Festival taking place at Tumbleweed Park from March 12-15.
The Ostrich Festival is a family-friendly experience featuring live ostriches and ostrich-themed activities, national and regional entertainment, exhilarating midway rides, fabulous food, and upscale arts and crafts, according to the Chandler Chamber. There are also performances by several local community groups throughout the weekend, followed by a nationally renowned headliner each night.
“Each year, the Chandler Chamber Ostrich Festival strives to give the Valley a family-friendly event that entertains, excites and educates,” says Chandler Chamber President and CEO Terri Kimble. “This year we have some really exciting news: we will be adding an additional day to the festival itself, so it will run Thurs., March 12, through Sun., March 15. This gives festival-goers more options to attend, more music, more fun, and a win-win for the community.”
The Carnival Preview Night on Thurs., March 12 is free for Chandler residents from 5 to 11 p.m. It features carnival rides, food, a beer garden, and live entertainment.
“As we enter our fifth year producing the Ostrich Festival, we're amazed at its growth and are grateful for the opportunity to work so closely with the Chandler Chamber of Commerce and City of Chandler,” says Steve LeVine of Steve LeVine Entertainment & Public Relations (SLE). “…The Ostrich Festival is truly such a unique event and each year we work hard to find new ways to entertain and create experiences for our attendees. We plan year-round for this, and have already planned some things for 2021, so get excited, because we are.”
To learn more, visit OstrichFestival.com.