Once upon a time, Fairy Tale Forest in Oak Ridge was a memorable attraction that let children step inside their favorite storybooks.

It closed in 2005 but has been undergoing a renovation since 2018. That work is nearing completion and the theme park should begin welcoming guests by Memorial Day, said Michael Zachary Vander Ploeg, Jr., great grandson of the park’s founder.

A BYOB restaurant -- Fables Restaurant and Marketplace at Fairy Tale Forest -- will do a soft opening in early March, he said.

The menu is undergoing its second review, he said, declining to name any specific dishes. Vander Ploeg did say the offerings will be seasonal, with special items for kids and those with dietary restrictions such as vegan and gluten free choices.

“We’re trying to be more vegetable-focused and a little healthier,” he said, adding that they will have french fries.

New American cuisine will be served in a casual, fun, dine-in environment and an array of signature dishes will be available in a gourmet to-go area -- from classic ice creams and goodies to a healthy organic juice bar, according to Fairy Tale Forest’s website.

The refurbished walk-through, outdoor park will consist of many of the original attractions -- including the original cottages, near life-size houses depicting fairytales from Hans Christian Andersen and the Brothers Grimm. There will also be live entertainers and seasonal special events, Vander Ploeg said.

“We will provide more information at the end of March regarding specific dates and pricing,” he said.

Fairy Tale Forest opened in 1957 after being built by German immigrant, Paul Woehle Sr. It was based on European fairy tales such as Mother Goose, Cinderella, The Three Little Pigs, Peter Pumpkin, Hansel & Gretel, Pinocchio, Brier Rabbit, Gulliver’s Travels and American folk lore, according to the park’s Facebook page.

Allison Pries may be reached at apries@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @AllisonPries. Find NJ.com on Facebook. Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips.

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