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We invite you to experience what makes Occoquan truly magical

Step into a world where fantasy meets reality as we enter our third year of the magical saga, Swords, Brooms & Magical Beasts, from the imagination of  Tarot Artist Laine (she/her) of Lainemindinventions, featured in the local gallery of Art A La Carte. 

 

How it all started:

Launched over three years ago in March, Swords Brooms & Magical Beasts began as an interactive fantasy art show curated by Tarot Artist Laine. Its primary goal was to showcase the diverse talents of artists featured within Art A La Carte Gallery. The event’s distinctive name emerged after extensive brainstorming, chosen to serve as an umbrella a variety of artists - our broom maker, ceramic artist that made beautiful little beasts and our painter who paints epic sword fighting battles. 

The inaugural event was free to the public and featured a mix of activities including tarot readings, costumes, a scavenger hunt, hands-on art demonstrations, and more. The popularity of the event brought about the events return in August and Laine invited surrounding businesses to join in.  The event snowballed and Laine who never expected to be an event organizer is now juggling this event with an awesome team of volunteers while she still creating art full time.  

Each event has become bigger and better as new elements get added on and new businesses jump aboard.  Shuttle services have now been added to help with the growth of the event. 

Laine is committed to maintaining this convention style event as free to attend and so all can freely immerse themselves in the artistry and joy the day gives. 

 

This even is ONLY made possible by the help of volunteers and through generous donations and sponsors who see the importance of bringing a community together, sharing joy and supporting local art and small businesses.  

We CELEBRATE  your self expression

Feel free to express your inner unicorn, witch, or magical beastie —dressing up is always encouraged but not required! Whether you choose to don a flowing cape or come as you are, what matters most is the spirit of community and positive energy we’ll cultivate together.

We are proud to host an event that warmly welcomes and celebrates the LGBTQ+ community.

Our goal is to create a safe, inclusive, and vibrant space where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, feels respected and valued. Whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or are an ally, this event is designed for you to connect, enjoy, and express yourself freely.

Supporting Our Community Event: How You Can Make a Difference

Community events like ours thrive because they bring people together, spark joy, and create lasting memories—all while remaining free and accessible to everyone. To sustain this valuable tradition and ensure its growth, we rely heavily on the generosity of sponsors, donors, and the dedication of volunteers.

Our event is made possible through a collaborative effort. Sponsors provide essential funding and resources, enabling us to cover costs without charging attendees. Donors contribute financially or in-kind, helping us enhance the quality and reach of the event. Meanwhile, volunteers give their time and energy, often behind the scenes, to make sure everything runs smoothly. This collective support forms the backbone that keeps our event alive and thriving.

By donating, you are directly investing in a vibrant, inclusive experience that benefits the entire community. Your contribution helps us expand programming, improve facilities, and introduce new features that attract more visitors and participants each year. Even a small gift can have a big impact when combined with the support of others.

We invite you to join this circle of support and help us cultivate an event that continues to inspire and unite. Together, we can ensure that this celebration remains free, dynamic, and growing for years to come.

Event Planning Committee

Mission

The Event Committee Volunteers organizes, plans, and produces Swords Brooms & Magical Beasts (SBMB) interactive one day, bi-annual, indoor/outdoor event in Historic Occoquan.

Current Members:

Map of Occoquan, Virginia, Swords Brooms & Magical Beasts, DMV Fantasy Event, LARP Map, Fantasy Town Map
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