Westerville, OH – Once again, the Westerville Public Library has prepared a month-long celebration of fantasy fandoms - from The Lord of the Rings to The Lightning Thief, Doctor Who to Back to the Future.
This event is what really makes Westerville Library a destination. We are so lucky to have the best library! - Survey respondent from 2023
The 7th annual Wizards & Wands Festival kicks off on October 1 with a Haunted Westerville activity kit, a hobbit-themed food drive, and a pop-up exhibit featuring spooky imagery used to scare the nation away from the dangers of alcohol in the early 1900s.
We're back at it again, somehow creating an even more magical experience each year. I love that even for fans who have been with us since the beginning, they will find something new this year. From reimagined enchanted decor and a life-sized replica TARDIS to new events like a life-sized game of Candyland and the return of fan-favorite entertainers like the BUGMAN, there is always something for everyone. Who knew that mixing books and magic could be such a spellbinding success? - Annamarie C, Manager
Throughout October, the library will be hosting over 40 different events. For those who prefer cute rather than creepy, stop by for a pumpkin parade, princess party, or fairy tale-inspired puppet show. There's something for Disney fans, Percy Jackson devotees, crafters and budding scientists. While here, all are encouraged to embark on fantasy-themed missions for chances at prize drawings and explore the fantasy-themed décor throughout the building.
My 5-year-old daughter and I came a few different times to tackle a few missions each time. We both had so much fun! And I love that she got to visit different areas of the library she'd never seen before. I love that this event, and others, create such a positive library experience for her! - Survey respondent from 2023
One GIANT addition will hatch this year - a new dragon!
Hilda the Dragon's baby will be perched on the roof overlooking State Street. This dragon is an art installation created by students and staff at The Point at Otterbein University.
Patrons are encouraged to vote on their favorite name while visiting through September 25.
We've spent the whole year dreaming about the Wizards & Wands Festival... and it's finally here! Our wonderful staff have cast spells on our stacks, making our decorations even "bigger on the inside!" With a great lineup of entertainers all month long and especially on the evening of October 25th, our hope is that everyone will find something new and fantastical this year. By the pricking of our thumbs, something AWESOME this way comes! - Matt G, Librarian
Astounding animals, buzzing bees, creepy critters, and hovering hawks will all be in attendance on October 25 from 4-9pm for the big festival finale.
My sister and I joke we share custody of our four kids. Mine are teens and hers are younger. It can be hard to find activities for them all to do together but they all loved the dragon egg and the displays and the three eldest were able to play bingo together. We have such great libraries in and around Columbus, we are so lucky! - Laura, Instagram comment from 2023
No visitor will be able to deny that magic exists after seeing their favorite fandoms come to life here at the library this October.
Learn more about the Wizards & Wands Festival.
Last updated: 9/5/2024
