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You could spend the night in Elphaba’s forest hideaway for free—yes, really

Twenty lucky guests will get to spend a day with Cynthia Erivo in this magical hideaway right outside L.A.

Gerrish Lopez
Written by
Gerrish Lopez
Time Out Contributor, US
Ephalba's Retreat
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb
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The release of Wicked: For Good is just around the corner (in theaters November 21) and Airbnb is giving you the chance to get some face time with Ephalba herself in her enchanted hideaway. That's right, 20 lucky guests could be selected to spend a magical day with Cynthia Erivo, and two lucky ones will actually be able to spend the night in the private, Wicked-themed Ephalba's Retreat for free.

Ephalba's Retreat
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

Hidden in a forest in Thousand Oaks, California, Ephalba's Retreat brings the character's world to life with an immersive experience that blurs the line between fantasy and reality for fans of the films. And yes, Cynthia Erivo, the Grammy-, Emmy- and Tony-winning powerhouse who plays Elphaba, is involved. This special spot is her character’s private sanctuary that will allow fans to see what “defying gravity” really feels like.

“Elphaba taught me that our differences are what make us powerful,” Cynthia said in an official statement. “Her story transformed me, and I can’t wait to share that journey with you.”

The Elphaba’s Wicked Retreat Experience includes a session with a tea sommelier, a chat with Erivo herself, the chance to wander around the property while listening to music and browsing through props from the film. You'll even get to make your own broom using natural materials like willow, moss and poppies. Then sample small bites that celebrate the bounty of the forest. The three hour experience will take place on December 3, 2025.

Ephalba's Retreat
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

Two guests will get to take their enchantment up a notch and spend the night in the retreat, surrounded by lush greenery, glowing lanterns and soft mossy accents that feel straight out of Oz. The retreat stay will take place December 6-7, 2025.

Ephalba's Retreat
Photograph: Courtesy Airbnb

So, how does it work? Head to airbnb.com/wickedforgood to submit a request right now. Add your guests' names and answer a few questions (why do you want to stay here? Do you have any personal connection to the character?). 

Airbnb will randomly select potential guests, then narrow the selection down to 20 entries based on their answers. The selected winners will be invited to book the experience. Booking requests for both activations are open now through November 20. 

Keep in mind that, although the experience is free, guests are responsible for their transportation to and from Thousand Oaks. Needless to say, it sounds like an awesome deal to us.

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