What was the US release date of the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz?

The US release date of the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz was August 25, 1939.

That date refers to the film’s nationwide American release, not its earlier previews or special premieres. MGM introduced the picture through a staggered rollout, allowing audiences and exhibitors to encounter it at several events before the broad release.

The film’s Hollywood premiere took place on August 15, 1939, at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. It had also been shown in earlier previews and opening engagements, which is why different dates sometimes appear in timelines or trivia references.

The distinction matters because “premiere,” “first showing,” and “US release” are not interchangeable. August 25 is the standard answer for the nationwide US release, while August 15 identifies the Hollywood premiere.