Ostrich Festival – A Quirky Arizona Tradition Takes Flight
March in the Phoenix area means it’s time for one of Arizona’s most unique and beloved events: the Chandler Ostrich Festival 2024! This annual festival brings together the nostalgia of a county fair with a quirky local twist – celebrating Chandler’s history of ostrich ranching. It’s a perfect outing for families, music lovers, and anyone up for some offbeat fun as spring arrives in the desert.
When & Where: Two Weekends of Fun in Chandler
When: The Ostrich Festival spreads out over two weekends in March 2024. Festivities run Friday through Sunday on back-to-back weekends (for 2024, those dates are March 8–10 and March 15–17). Gates open in the afternoon on Fridays (around 2 p.m.) and from morning till midnight on Saturdays, and until around 11 p.m. on Sundays, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the fun day or night.
Where: Tumbleweed Park in Chandler, AZ transforms into the festival grounds. The park is located just south of downtown Chandler and offers lots of space for rides, stages, and yes – even ostrich pens! On-site paid parking is available, and there are typically shuttles from nearby lots to ease congestion. (Insider tip: if you can, consider a rideshare on the busiest nights to save the parking hassle.)
Festival Highlights: More Than Just Ostriches!
The Chandler Ostrich Festival offers a smorgasbord of entertainment and attractions. Here are some highlights you won’t want to miss:
- Ostrich Races: Yes, you read that right! Ostrich racing is the star attraction and a nod to Chandler’s quirky past (the city once had ostrich farms whose feathers were used in women’s fashions in the early 1900s). During scheduled shows in the arena, daring jockeys climb onto ostriches and attempt to race them a short distance. It’s hilarious, unpredictable, and truly one-of-a-kind – don’t forget to cheer for your favorite big bird! (These races usually happen a couple of times each day, so check the schedule when you arrive.)
- Live Music & Shows: The festival boasts a main stage with concerts from national headliners and talented local bands each evening. Past years have featured big names in pop, country, and rock (think along the lines of The Beach Boys, Andy Grammer, or Clint Black – the lineup varies every year). During the day, catch a variety of acts around the park: magic shows, BMX stunt demonstrations, cultural dance troupes, and yes, the ever-entertaining ostrich-inspired “Daisy the Ostrich” puppet wandering the grounds.
- Carnival Rides & Games: A full carnival midway offers dozens of rides for all thrill levels. Little ones can enjoy the carousel and mini-coaster, while thrill-seekers can get spun and flipped on extreme rides like the Hyperloop or Kamikaze. A giant Ferris wheel provides a panoramic view of the whole festival (awesome at night!). In between, test your skills at classic fair games to win a stuffed animal or that giant ostrich plush you didn’t know you needed. (Pro tip: Unlimited ride wristbands are usually available for certain days – a good value if you plan to ride a lot.)
- Delicious Fair Food: Come hungry because the Ostrich Festival is known for its mouth-watering food vendors. Savor all the fair favorites – funnel cakes dusted with powdered sugar, corn dogs, curly fries, and lemonade shake-ups – plus unique treats. You might find ostrich burgers on the menu as a cheeky homage (tastes like lean beef!), or try fry bread Navajo tacos, kettle corn, snow cones… the list goes on. And yes, there’s likely a vendor selling deep-fried everything (Oreos, Twinkies, pickles – if you can fry it, it’s probably here).
- Family Fun & Animals: Beyond ostriches, there’s usually a petting zoo and pony rides for kids to get up-close with friendlier farm animals (goats, sheep, bunnies, etc.). Don’t miss the exotic animal display – in past years, they’ve had camels or zebras on exhibit, tying into the festival’s “wild” theme. There are also ostrich-themed activities like an ostrich egg decorating station and selfie opportunities with costumed characters. Plus, character meet-and-greets (think superheroes or princesses) are common in the kids’ zone. It’s a festival designed to keep all ages entertained.
Tips to Make the Most of the Ostrich Festival
- Tickets & Deals: Check online for advance ticket pricing – buying ahead can save a few dollars off the gate price. There are often family packs or wristband deals available. Kids under a certain age (typically 5 and under) might be free, so verify the age policy. Also, some discount days or promotions (like free entry for military on a specific day, or half-price admission during certain hours) might be offered. Plan accordingly to take advantage.
- Plan Your Visit: Each evening features a big-name concert that draws crowds. If you’re mainly interested in the rides and unique attractions, consider going earlier in the day to avoid the biggest crowds, then you can stick around as the concert begins (you can enjoy the music from many parts of the fairground). Conversely, if the concert is your main draw, arrive a bit before showtime to stake out a good viewing spot (the standing area in front of the stage is first-come, first-served).
- Stay Hydrated & Sun Safe: March weather is pleasant but can be sunny and warm in the daytime. Wear sunscreen and a hat, and take breaks to hydrate – especially if you’re enjoying those deep-fried goodies. There are water refill stations and plenty of vendors selling cold drinks.
- Comfort & Cash: Wear comfy shoes – you’ll be doing a lot of walking between rides, stages, and vendor booths on grass and pavement. It’s a big park! ATMs are on site, but it’s smart to bring some cash for game booths and smaller vendors that might be cash-only. Most food stands take cards now, but it can vary.
- Embrace the Quirk: Where else can you watch ostriches race, then hop on a roller coaster, then eat a funnel cake while listening to live music? The key is to dive into the fun and embrace the festival’s quirky charm. Take a selfie with an ostrich (there’s usually one you can meet in a pen), sing along to the cover band on the side stage, and make a whole day (or night) of it.
The Chandler Ostrich Festival perfectly captures the spirit of Arizona – a blend of classic fair fun with a unique local twist. Whether you go for the ostriches, the carnival thrills, the live entertainment, or all of the above, you’re in for a memorable experience. So mark your calendar, gather your flock (er, family and friends), and get ready to make some springtime memories. And follow us on Instagram and Facebook for live updates and goofy highlights from the festival – we’ll see you there, hopefully with an ostrich burger in hand!
