The annual Ostrich Festival (formerly referred to as the Chandler Ostrich Festival) has been recognized as one of the "Top 10 Unique Festivals in the United States" with its lanky ostriches, multiple entertainment bands and many special gift and food vendors. It is truly a unique festival, and suitable for the entire family.
Ostrich Festival Picture Gallery
Before the Festival: Mayor's Fun Run and Ostrich Festival Parade
The Ostrich Festival Parade takes place the week before the main event. The Mayor's Fun Run welcomes all ages and abilities on Saturday, March 2, 2013 at 8 a.m. (registration starts at 6:30 a.m. at Dr. AJ Chandler Park in downtown Chandler. It's just over 3 miles. Registration required. The run begins at Arizona Avenue and Frye Road. The Parade follows at 10 a.m. The parade route starts at Ray Road and Arizona Avenue and proceeds south on Arizona Avenue to Chicago St.Ostrich Festival: Dates and Times
Friday, March 8, 2013 from 2 p.m. to midnightSaturday, March 9, 2013 from 10 a.m. to midnight
Sunday, March 10, 2013 from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Ostrich Races at the Ostrich Festival
These may be the main attraction of the Ostrich Festival. In 2013 there are eight ostrich races over the course of the three day festival. Check the schedule for the times each day. Each ostrich race lasts about 50 minutes. The ostrich races are included in the price of admission.Entertainment at the Ostrich Festival
There is something for everyone at the Ostrich Festival. The Ostrich Festival will feature: Ostrich Races, Doggies of the Wild West, Marvelous Mutts, Rhinestone Roper, Survivor Family Game Show, Raymond Marcus Comedy, Family Magic Show, Fearless Flores Thrill Show, and Silent Disco. Roshon Fegan will appear. live ostrich display and multiple stages of live entertainment, all included in admission price. The music schedule and attractions schedule should help you plan your days at the Ostrich Festival. All concerts and performances are included in the admission charge. Concerts have some chairs as well as lawn seating. Chairs and blankets encouraged.Concerts at the Ostrich Festival
Friday, March 8 at 6 p.m.: Vicci Martinez presents folk and classic rock music with an R&B grooveFriday, March 8 at 8 p.m.: country music star James Otto
Saturday, March 9 at 6 p.m.: Journey Tribute Band, Journey Unauthorized
Saturday, March 9 at 8 p.m.: The Guess Who
Sunday, March 10 at 3 p.m.: Charlie Hall sings songs of prayer, worship, and faith
Sunday, March 10 at 5 p.m.: Fairchilds Blues Tribute
Sunday, March 10 at 7 p.m.: Fito Olivares and his band La Pura Sabrosura
All concerts are free with your paid admission.
The FreakShow Deluxe
On Friday, March 8 at 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m; Saturday, March 9 and Sunday, March 10 at noon, 2 p.m., 5 p.m., and 8 p.m. the popular FreakShow Deluxe will showcase their terrifying, death defying acts, including fire breathers, sword swallowing, contortionists, Bed of Nails, and Ladder of Machetes.And More!
About 100 arts and crafts booths, and a carnival with rides and other amusements. Ever had an ostrich burger? You can try one here! The younger kids will enjoy the Kids' Area, which includes a petting zoo, pony rides, and other fun stuff.Ostrich Festival Prices and Details
The Ostrich Festival is held at Tumbleweed Park in Chandler. Plenty of on-site parking will be available. There is a $5 fee per vehicle for parking. Here are directions and a map to the Chandler Ostrich Festival.The Arizona Department of Transportation usually provides detailed motorist information, including any travel or road restrictions, for this event. Call 5-1-1, then *7. The call is free.
Tickets for the Ostrich Festival can be purchased at the event each day with prices ranging from $7 to $10. Children four and under are free. You can also obtain one day, all-day unlimited ride passes for $21 (advance) or $25 (gate). Don't forget Family Fun Packs available at all Fry’s Food Stores starting February 15, 2013: $67 (a $17 savings) includes two adult, two youth and two all-day carnival ride passes. Fry’s will also carry the $21 All Day Carnival Ride passes.
Enjoy your visit to the Ostrich Festival!
All dates, times, prices and offerings are subject to change without notice.
