Volkswagen Helps Celebrate 'Oz'

"The Wizard of Oz" celebrated it's 70th anniversary Thursday, September 24, in New York City at Tavern On The Green restaurant. Five of the original munchkins were in attendance for the big night.

Also in attendance to celebrate the legendary movie's anniversary was singer Ashanti, and the traveling cast of " The Wizard of Oz."

The evening also showcased the highly anticipated charity auction of Warner Brother Consumer Products' World famous Ruby Slipper Collection, as well as select pieces from The Inspirations of Oz Fine Art Collection to benefit the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation. The auction opened September 10. Final bids will close and be tabulated on September 30.

Also on the scene was "The Wizard of Oz" Hot Air Balloon which launched from the parking lot and delighted guests. The Emerald City Green Balloon is truly a sight to behold, standing more than seven and a half stories tall, 55 feet in diameter, and holding 90,000 cubic feet of air.

To help celebrate the event, Volkswagen rolled out it's Routan minivan, completely decked out in a "Wizard of Oz" wrapper.

Ashanti and Judy Garland's granddaughter Lorna Luft, treated VIP attendees with a special performance.