Is this event strictly 21+?

Yes, all attendees must be 21 or older to enter due to venue policies and alcohol service.

Can I purchase tickets at the door?

Yes, tickets are available for $20 at the door, though presale for $15 is recommended to guarantee entry.

Are costumes mandatory?

Costumes are highly encouraged to enhance the atmosphere, but they are not required.

Is there parking available?

Nearby public parking is available in downtown Charlottesville; rideshares and taxis are recommended for convenience.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility details have not been provided; you may contact The Looking Glass directly for accommodations.

Can I bring my own drinks?

No outside beverages are allowed; the venue offers a selection of drinks for purchase.

Fantasy Fest Afterparty 2025: Charlottesville’s Neon Night Dance Experience

As twilight fades on October 31, 2025, Charlottesville, Virginia’s vibrant outdoor celebrations take a thrilling turn inside The Looking Glass at IX Art Park. The Fantasy Fest Afterparty invites night owls and festivity lovers to lose themselves from 9 PM to 2 AM in a neon-drenched wonderland where pulsating beats, immersive visuals, and creative costumes redefine Halloween nightlife. Against the backdrop of Charlottesville’s cultural pulse, this after-hours event pulses with electric energy, transforming the space into an otherworldly dance floor alive with music, art, and theatrical performance.

Situated at 522 S. 2nd St, The Looking Glass is a unique venue known for embracing the city’s artistic spirit. Here, DJs including Brielleee, Disco Pomegranate, Ravida, and Mirage the Neon Mermaid ignite the night with eclectic mixes that span genres yet remain hypnotically danceable. Performers weave through the crowd dressed as fantastical creatures, complementing the neon glow and encouraging attendees to express their boldest alter egos through striking costumes. Whether you come adorned with elaborate makeup or glowing accessories, the event celebrates the thrill of immersive experience and creative freedom.

Charlottesville itself, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a hub for arts and outdoor adventure alike. While the city charms visitors with historical sites such as Monticello, evenings like this afterparty showcase how the local scene pulses with contemporary and forward-thinking energy. Unlike traditional Halloween parties, Fantasy Fest Afterparty creates a distinctive blend of nightlife, visual art, and community celebration, making it a stand-out destination for travelers seeking a memorable cultural nightlife event.

Attendees must be 21 or older, with tickets priced at $15 presale and $20 at the door, making it accessible yet special. The event runs through the night, a perfect complement to those wanting to extend their Halloween festivities beyond dusk.

This afterparty is not merely a dance event but a vibrant intersection of artistic expression and community spirit. The neon lights, the beat, and the kaleidoscope of costumes build an atmosphere that visitors won’t soon forget. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, this night plugs you into the beating heart of Charlottesville’s creative nightlife.

Book early to secure your spot and prepare for a night that fuses sound, light, and imagination in a city where outdoor adventure and arts converge.

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.