Fall down the rabbit hole at the new 'Alice In Wonderland'-inspired pop-up in Farmingdale

Find yourself falling through a rabbit hole in Farmingdale this month and landing at “The Wonder,” an “Alice in Wonderland”-inspired pop-up experience on Main Street.

“Characters from the movie will come out and interact with each table, sing a couple of songs as well as perform some movie lines or skits,” says Michael Marra, marketing consultant of Unique Social Events. Expect to see the Mad Hatter, the Red Queen and, of course, Alice. Plus, Marra adds, "There will be some surprises … It will be a whimsical, colorful immersion into the world of ‘Alice in Wonderland.’ ” 

Running now through May 1, guests can reserve a table for two, four or six with each session lasting 90 minutes and holding 48 seats. Here's a look inside. 

DESIGNER DRINKS & FUN FOOD

Craft cocktails ($15) will even be deeply woven into the “Alice” theme.

The Cheshire Cat Highball is a multilayered cocktail full of vibrancy. “It’s brought to the table with an interactive element,” says Marra. “Guests will be able to pour their desired spirit into the cocktail making a really cool mixture of colors.” 

Tea for Two is a shareable cocktail that is served in a teapot with a smoking detail.

“It’s delivered to the table in a vintage ceramic teapot as if you are at an actual tea party from the movie,” adds Marra. “Except, it comes with dry ice.”

A full menu offers everything from risotto balls with vodka sauce, pistachio-crusted lollipop lamb chops, mozzarella lunas and a cranberry walnut salad. Fresh desserts are made by local bakers and will rotate weekly. There’s also a children’s menu featuring fun food like chicken fingers with fries, penne pasta with tomato sauce and a personal pizza.

STRIKE A POSE

Those seeking selfies can start snapping away as a step-and-repeat banner will be set up for visitors to take photos with friends or the characters themselves.

In terms of a dress code, attendees can come as they are or even delve into some cosplaying. 

“We encourage our guests to be as involved as possible,” says Marra. “People are welcome to come dressed in costume wearing a Mad Hatter hat, an ‘Alice in Wonderland’ dress or any elegant tea party attire.”

In compliance with all current New York State health regulations, Marra says, “a thorough cleaning is conducted in between each seating.”

Brianna McEnroe, 27, of Port Jefferson got a sneak peek at the event’s preview night. “From the attention to detail in decoration from ceiling to floor, to the color changing souvenir cups, cocktails shimmering with glitter and topping it off with fun entertainment, I truly felt like I was taken into Wonderland,” she says. “My favorite part was when the characters came out and started singing and acting in-theme just like the movie.”

The event is family friendly and appropriate for children. However, it’s suggested that the earlier seatings on weekends (noon, 2 and 4 p.m.) are ideal for kids.

To purchase advance tickets ($27 per person), visit thewonderpopup.com. Admission includes a reserved table with character interaction, photo opportunities and a performance including a souvenir cup to take home with a color-changing logo. All food and drinks are a la carte.

For a $15 seating fee, walk-ins are welcome; but seating is based on availability and space is not guaranteed. 

By David J. Criblez

david.criblez@newsday.comDavidJCriblez

David J. Criblez is a reporter for Newsday's exploreLI, covering entertainment-related events from local music to stand-up comedy to festivals.