Swords Brooms & Magical Beasts began as a small art show three years ago, created by artist Laine to shine a spotlight on fantasy, gothic, witchy, and sci-fi artists. The FREE to attend event quickly became a beloved bi-annual tradition of transforming Occoquan into a magical realm, drawing in more businesses each year as word spread about its unique charm and community spirit. What started as a single event has now blossomed into a town-wide celebration, with 25 businesses participating and over 50 artists represented. Laine, together with a dedicated team of volunteers, has worked tirelessly to create a magical experience for everyone who attends.
This year, the event is bigger than ever, introducing exciting new features of a D&D styled map and schedule handed out to all patrons, LARP sign-ups, a website, and a shuttle service to help guests overcome parking challenges. The mission remains the same: to help the community discover the magic of the Historic Town of Occoquan and support local artists, authors, makers, and small businesses. However, bringing this vision to life comes with significant costs and may end this event later this year. Funds raised will go directly toward valued added features such as printing and marketing costs, essential facilities like toilets, shuttle service, and helping to cover the $2500 permit required for the event to exist (reference Occoquan § 111.38 ITINERANT VENDOR EVENTS section D2). Every contribution helps ensure that Swords Brooms & Magical Beasts can continue to grow and bring joy to the community. In the future, your support may even help us bring performers to the event.
We invite you to join us in making this magical day possible. Your support will help us create a day that remains free to the public and provides joy to our community and patrons , supporting over 25 small Occoquan businesses, local artists, tarot readers, fantasy book authors, and makers. Thank you for believing in the magic and for helping us bring this special event to life!
Organizer
