When most people think of The Wizard of Oz, they imagine Dorothy’s adventures in the magical land of Oz. What many don’t realize is that the iconic 1939 film made its world premiere in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin—a charming small town that played a surprising role in Hollywood history.
In the late 1930s, MGM sought an ideal location to debut their groundbreaking film. Oconomowoc, known for its idyllic setting and vibrant local culture, was chosen as one of three cities to host the premiere. The Strand Theatre in downtown Oconomowoc rolled out the red carpet on August 12, 1939, alongside similar events in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and Kenosha, Wisconsin.
Why Oconomowoc? The town was part of the Lake Country area, a popular summer retreat for wealthy Midwesterners, including influential Hollywood figures. Its quaint, all-American charm made it the perfect backdrop to gauge audience reactions to a story that celebrated heartland values.
The premiere at The Strand Theatre marked the beginning of the film’s legendary journey into cinematic history. Attendees had no idea they were witnessing what would become one of the most beloved movies of all time, featuring innovative Technicolor sequences and timeless performances.
Today, Oconomowoc proudly celebrates its connection to The Wizard of Oz. The city embraces its role in cinematic history with murals, festivals, and events honoring the film’s legacy. For residents and visitors, this bit of Hollywood magic in small-town Wisconsin is a point of pride.
The next time you find yourself rewatching Dorothy’s journey to Oz, remember that her yellow brick road began in a little theater in Oconomowoc, a town that made its mark in the annals of film history.
