Is Fantasy Fest suitable for children?

Yes, Fantasy Fest is family-friendly with activities and performances designed for all ages.

Is there an entry fee?

The event is donation-based with suggested contributions to support the IX Arts Foundation, but entry is free.

Are pets allowed at the festival?

Pets are generally not recommended due to the crowds and busy environment, though service animals may be permitted.

What are the parking options?

Visitors can use nearby public parking lots or street parking around IX Art Park, but arriving early is best.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?

Outside food is not prohibited, but there are many food and drink vendors on site for convenience.

Is the festival accessible?

IX Art Park offers accessible pathways and accommodations to ensure the event is welcoming to all visitors.

Experience the Magic of Fantasy Fest 2025 at IX Art Park in Charlottesville | Events

Each Halloween, Charlottesville’s IX Art Park undergoes a striking transformation into Fantasy Fest, a spirited celebration where art, imagination, and community collide in an unforgettable outdoor festivity. Located in the vibrant heart of Virginia, this event stretches across the park’s open-air venues, immersing visitors in a daylong journey filled with live performances, roaming whimsical characters, interactive art exhibits, and artisan markets. Fantasy Fest 2025 invites participants of all ages to don costumes and unleash their creativity, making it a unique fusion of theatrical fun and artistic expression set against the backdrop of this beloved local green space.

IX Art Park is no ordinary venue; it’s a cornerstone of Charlottesville’s outdoor art scene, fostering creativity year-round with its distinctive blend of murals, sculptures, and open-air installations. During Fantasy Fest, these artistic elements come alive with an extra dose of enchantment as performers and vendors craft an atmosphere buzzing with magic and mischief. Expect to encounter fantastical characters weaving through the crowd—fairies, jesters, and more—while local artisans offer handcrafted wares that mirror the event’s imaginative spirit.

The festival’s appeal lies in its broad accessibility and community focus. With donation-based entry, it welcomes families, solo adventurers, and fantasy enthusiasts without the barrier of ticketed costs, encouraging everyone to participate in the art, food, and festivities. Culinary vendors offer a variety of family-friendly treats and drinks to fuel a day of exploration, from sweet delights to comforting savory bites.

Fantasy Fest also serves a bigger purpose by supporting the IX Arts Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to maintaining free public access to this creative hub. This connection to local stewardship deepens the event’s impact, making each Fest not just a spectacular outdoor celebration but a vital part of Charlottesville’s cultural ecosystem.

Whether you’re seeking a vibrant, inclusive event to spark your Halloween or an opportunity to engage with community-driven art in an open setting, Fantasy Fest 2025 stands out as a colorful highlight on Virginia’s fall calendar. Mark your calendar for a day of costumes, creativity, and connection in the lively and ever-inspiring IX Art Park.

About IX Art Park

IX Art Park is Virginia’s first immersive art space, created and maintained by a collective of over 25 local artists. Located in Charlottesville, IX Art Park transforms an abandoned industrial site into a walkable, sensory-rich environment where immersive installations, interactive exhibits, live music, and themed festivals blend with community-driven programming.

Events span monthly mixers, seasonal festivals, and headline performances that welcome families, nightlife crowds, and art collectors alike. The Looking Glass—IX’s flagship immersive forest—rotates installations from a diverse roster of creators, ensuring fresh surprises on every visit. The venue hosts free-admission Community Days, themed nights like 1/2 Price Fridays, and special ticketed events such as Fantasy Fest and Swansong Concerts.

Accessibility, local collaboration, and experiential storytelling are central to IX Art Park’s mission. The organization curates partnerships with makers, musicians, and performers and offers annual experiences including an After Dark Pass for recurring patrons. Food, craft cocktails, and vendor markets frequently complement immersive exhibits to create multi-sensory gatherings.

Safety and professionalism guide event operations: clearly posted hours, age-designated nights (family-friendly Thursdays and 18+ Fridays), and staffed entrances ensure an organized guest experience. IX Art Park has become a trusted cultural destination in Central Virginia by prioritizing artist compensation, transparency in programming, and immersive design that inspires curiosity.

Visitors are encouraged to check event schedules and ticket details online before arrival. IX Art Park provides regular updates about new installations, festival dates, and community programming to keep guests informed and engaged. Sign up for the mailing list to receive event alerts.