Once a year, Children’s Fairyland in Oakland invites adults 21+ to revel in the magic of Fairyland for a grown-up winter affair to remember. On Friday, December 12, Fairyland opens its gates for the fourth annual Twas the Night before Fairy Winterland, an evening of art, live R&B music, legendary DJs, artisan wares, holiday vendor village, and pure imagination.
Children’s Fairyland, the beloved storybook theme park in Oakland, hosts the fourth annual Twas the Night before Fairy Winterland (Twas the Night) event on Friday, December 12, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. For this special evening, Fairyland opens exclusively to adults ages 21 and over, offering a rare opportunity for grown-ups to explore the magical world of Fairyland, a place typically reserved for children and their families, and experience a dazzling winter’s night market like no other. Tickets are on sale now!
Twas the Night transforms Fairyland into an adults-only holiday night market offering original artisan wares by local vendors, and a festive holiday party featuring spiked cider, food trucks, live art, open-air dance floor, and soulful musical performances by contemporary Bay Area R&B artists. Guests can explore Fairyland’s iconic storybook sets, from Willie the Whale to the Alice in Wonderland card maze against a twinkling backdrop of holiday lights. Guests will enjoy strolling through a vendor village full of unique and locally made gifts, apparel, wares, and products by celebrated boutique brands. Guests can sip seasonal beverages and dance under the Oakland stars while being treated to an electrifying concert showcasing multiple acts – some beloved and some bursting onto the scene.
This year’s lineup includes:
- DJ SHELLHEART: A Bay Area powerhouse who has spun for the Warriors, Outside Lands, San Francisco Pride, and the Valkyries. DJ SHELLHEART will bring her signature blend of crowd-pleasing hits and immaculate vibes to keep the Merry Meadow dance floor alive all night long.
- Dee Dee Simon: A native of Oakland, California, is a singer, songwriter, and producer known for her heartfelt, soulful voice and impressive 5-octave vocal range. She has shared the stage with musical greats like Chaka Khan and Gladys Knight. A grand prize winner of Amateur Night at the Apollo in 2023 and a Top Ten finalist on America’s Got Talent, Dee Dee has also written and produced six albums, showcasing her depth and versatility as an artist.
- Kelvin Truitt: Kelvin Truitt released his debut EP, “Opposite,” in 2021. His passion for connection and his spiritual leadership drive him to use his distinct sound to heal and empower others by sharing his personal struggles. He’s made a name for himself by uniquely blending modern R&B with traditional country music.
- Amanda Beltz: is a soul-pop singer known for her jazzy, heartfelt performances that create a timeless and deeply personal atmosphere. She blends warm, expressive vocals with jazz sophistication to deliver music that connects across generations and genres.
The event runs for four hours, with bars, activities, and marketplace set up within the park.
Admission is $40 per person and $35 for Fairyland Members, and includes one drink ticket. Beer, wine, (alcohol infused) cider and cocoa are available for purchase. A selection of Oakland’s finest food vendors will be on hand, offering a variety of delicious bites for purchase.
Tickets are now available for purchase online here.
Please note: While it’s okay to be a kid at heart, a valid 21+ ID is required to attend.
ABOUT CHILDREN’S FAIRYLAND: Children’s Fairyland, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is the original storybook theme park in America. Nestled on the shores of Lake Merritt since 1950, Fairyland has been renowned for stimulating children’s imaginations, creativity, and desire to learn through educational programs, storybook sets, tot-sized rides, play-acting, storytelling, reading, and animal interactions. Located at 699 Bellevue Ave, Oakland, California, Fairyland is committed to providing a magical and educational experience for families with children ages 8 and under. Learn more at www.fairyland.org.
NOTE: Mark your calendars for the upcoming celebration for kids and families, Fairy Winterland, on Dec 13-14, 20-21, and 27-28.