Dare to venture into the shadows of Richmond’s Dark FANTASY BALL: A Morbid Masquerade (21+) on Friday the 13th in February, 2026!
This unconventional affair beckons the daring and the adventurous to embrace a darker, more mysterious side of Valentine's, be you single or taken. Stepping away from the conventional, our event promises an unforgettable night filled with enchanting mystique with a heavy touch of the macabre.
NOTE: This event SOLD OUT in both 2024 and 2025, so don’t wait to secure your tickets!
• DATE: Feb. 13 2026 (8pm-1am)
• GLOOMY HOUR: 7:00-8:00pm (in the Hofheimer Lounge, 2nd Floor)
• MAIN DOORS: 8:00pm
• AGES: 21+
WHAT TO EXPECT:
• Masked Costume Contest
• Morbid-Themed Cocktails
• Face Paint Masks (by DC Creators Body Art Collective)
• Multiple Photographers (featured & roaming)
• Dark-Themed Vendors
• Charity Canned Food Drive with raffle prizes (benefiting FeedMore.org)
• Live performances by Dollz Entertainment & aerialist Mina Corbeau
• MUSIC/DANCING: Goth / Industrial / EDM / 80s / Electro / House
HOST VENUE:
This bewitching evening, offering a unique alternative to traditional, less creative Valentine’s themed events, the Dark FANTASY BALL: Morbid Masquerade will unfold within the walls of the historic Hofheimer Building in Richmond — a venue steeped in history and grandeur. Built in 1928, this architectural gem located at the edge of Scott’s Addition provides the perfect backdrop for our morbid masquerade, adding an extra layer of allure to an already enchanting affair.
ALL MASK TYPES ENCOURAGED:
At the (dark) heart of the FANTASY BALL lies our captivating costume/cosplay showcase, where attendees are encouraged to unleash their creativity with all styles of masks — not just traditional masquerade masks. Whether it’s a gothic masterpiece, a whimsical creation, or a full-face mask reminiscent of Halloween’s chilling delights, your imagination is the only limit. Unleash your inner fantasy and immerse yourself in a world where mystery and allure converge. NOTE: Masks are not required but they are HIGHLY encouraged. If attendees plan to enjoy dark adult libations the historic Hofheimer bar staff will offer up, they should consider a mask that doesn’t cover one’s mouth.
MASKED COSTUME CONTEST:
Elevate your outfit/costume/cosplay to new heights by incorporating your mask and plan to join our “Costume/Mask Contest”. Whether you’ve meticulously matched your mask to your attire or ingeniously integrated it into a larger concept, we’d love to see you on stage! Let your mask be an extension of your dark fantasy persona and join the competition – may the most mesmerizing ensemble prevail! NOTE: More info. on how to join the contest will be provided at Registration night-of event - limited spots available!
FEATURED SPONSORS:
• RED VEIN HAUNT
• Richmond ZOMBIE WALK (Oct. 24, 2026)
• Tragic Studio 804
• ZOMBIE BASH (Richmond, Feb. 27, 2026)
EVENT PHOTOGRAPHERS:
We'll have both Roaming & Featured Photographers on-site ready to capture you in all of your dark essence:
CHARITY DRIVE:
Have a heart and embrace the spirit of giving by participating in our CHARITY CANNED FOOD DRIVE, directly benefiting Richmond's own FeedMore.org For every two cans donated, attendees will receive one raffle ticket, making them eligible for a chance to win fantastic prizes (more cans donated equals more raffle tickets!)
THEMED COCKTAILS:
Prepare your taste buds for a journey into the extraordinary while at the Dark FANTASY BALL. The Hofheimer's masterful mixologists will be conjuring up an array of bloody awesome themed cocktails, each sip a revelation of dark elegance and tantalizing flavor. Their fully stocked bars will also cater to every palate with a selection of standard libations, alongside a generous offering of beer, wine, soda, and water.
BROUGHT TO YOU BY:
• AfterDarkRVA.com
• DC Creators
• Markster Con Productions
QUESTIONS:
afterdarkrva@gmail.com