The Chandler Ostrich Festival is Back for 2025—Bigger, Faster, and More Fun Than Ever!
Hold onto your hats (and maybe your ostrich feathers), because the Chandler Ostrich Festival is galloping into town, and it’s bringing all the thrills, chills, and giggles you can handle. For two action-packed weekends—March 14-16 and March 21-23, 2025 —Tumbleweed Park in Chandler will transform into a whirlwind of excitement, celebrating the quirky charm of ostrich racing, live music, carnival rides, and so much more. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a foodie, or just looking for some good old-fashioned family fun, this festival has something for everyone. Let’s dive into why the Chandler Ostrich Festival is THE place to be this spring!
Why the Ostrich Festival? A Celebration of Chandler’s Unique History
Did you know that Chandler once had a booming ostrich ranching industry? These towering, speedy birds were prized for their feathers, which were all the rage in fashion back in the day. Today, the Ostrich Festival pays homage to that quirky slice of local history with its main attraction: live ostrich races. Watching these long-legged sprinters dash down the track is equal parts hilarious and exhilarating—you’ll cheer, you’ll laugh, and you might even place a friendly bet on your favorite feathered racer.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. Beyond the races, the festival is a celebration of community spirit, creativity, and good times. It’s a tradition that brings neighbors together and gives visitors a taste of what makes Chandler so special.
What’s New This Year? Two Weekends of Nonstop Fun
For the first time ever, the Ostrich Festival is spreading the fun across two weekends, giving you twice the opportunity to join in the festivities. Here’s what’s waiting for you:
Live Music That’ll Get You Moving
The festival is pulling out all the stops with an incredible lineup of national and local artists guaranteed to get your toes tapping.
- Weekend 1 (March 14-16): Groove to the sounds of Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers, belt out your favorite tunes with The Fray and discover new favorites like BRELAND + LANCO.
- Weekend 2 (March 21-23): Dance under the stars with Los Rieleros del Norte, sing along with Natasha Bedingfield, and rock out with Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line.
No matter which weekend you choose, the music will keep the energy high from start to finish.
Carnival Rides for Every Age
With over 35 carnival rides , there’s no shortage of thrills at the Ostrich Festival. Daredevils can brave heart-pounding roller coasters and spinning rides, while little ones can enjoy gentle carousels and kiddie swings. And let’s not forget the Ferris wheel—perfect for soaking in panoramic views of the festival grounds.
Food That’ll Make Your Mouth Water
From classic festival favorites like corn dogs and funnel cakes to gourmet creations that’ll surprise your taste buds, the food vendors at the Ostrich Festival have got you covered. Craving something sweet? Try deep-fried Oreos or fresh-squeezed lemonade. Need something savory? Sink your teeth into BBQ brisket, loaded nachos, or international flavors like tacos al pastor. There’s no wrong choice here!
Shop ‘Til You Drop
Stroll through rows of curated vendors offering everything from handmade crafts to trendy accessories. Whether you’re hunting for unique souvenirs or one-of-a-kind gifts, you’re sure to find something special to take home.
Special Perks Just for Chandler Residents
Calling all locals! If you’re a Chandler resident, you’ve got a golden ticket to opening day. Simply enter your zip code on the festival website to claim FREE tickets for Friday, March 14 . It’s the perfect way to kick off the festivities and show some love for your hometown.
Plan Your Visit: Tips for a Feather-Tastic Day
Here’s how to make the most of your Ostrich Festival adventure:
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- Single-day adult tickets start at $25.
- Kids (ages 5-12) are just $15.
- Splurge on VIP tickets for $100, which include front-of-stage access and exclusive perks.Admission Prices:
- Parking: Available via Hamilton Rd or McQueen Rd , but note there’s an additional fee payable by credit card only. Arrive early to snag a spot close to the action.
- Clear Bag Policy: Only clear bags not exceeding 20″ x 15″ x 9″ are allowed, with exceptions for diaper bags and medical items. Leave the oversized purses at home to breeze through security.
More Than Just Fun: A Community Tradition
At its heart, the Chandler Ostrich Festival is about connection. It’s a chance to celebrate the city’s rich history, support local businesses, and create memories with friends and family. From the laughter of kids on carnival rides to the cheers of crowds watching ostrich races, every moment is infused with joy and community pride.
Why You Can’t Miss This Year’s Festival
The Chandler Ostrich Festival isn’t just another event—it’s an experience. It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia and novelty, offering something for every age and interest. Whether you’re marveling at the speed of an ostrich, singing along to your favorite band, or indulging in delicious eats, you’ll leave with a smile on your face and stories to tell.
So grab your crew, put on your green (or feathers, if you’re feeling bold), and head to Tumbleweed Park for a weekend—or two—of unforgettable fun. Trust us, you don’t want to miss out on the fastest, quirkiest, and most entertaining festival in Arizona!
Mark your calendars: March 14-16 and March 21-23, 2025. See you at the races! 🦒🎡🎶
