Dark Valentine's FANTASY BALL: A Morbid Masquerade (Richmond)
Adv. Tickets now available for the 2026 FANTASY BALL: Morbid Masquerade!
Dare to venture into the shadows of Richmond’s annual Dark Valentine's FANTASY BALL: A Morbid Masquerade (21+) on Friday the 13th in February, 2026! This unconventional affair — presented by After Dark RVA – beckons the daring and the adventurous to embrace a darker, more mysterious side of Valentine's weekend, 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. Doors at 8:00pm, hosted at the historic Hofheimer Building.
2025 Promotional Video (above)
➡️ Special Performances (by Dollz Entertainment)
➡️ Masked COSTUME CONTEST
➡️ Face Paint Masks (by DC Creators Body Art Collective)
➡️ Morbid Vendors (online & in-person)
➡️ Dark Music (Goth / Industrial / EBM / 80s / Electro / House)
➡️ Featured and Roaming Photographers
➡️ Special Dark Valentine's themed cocktails
➡️ Charity Canned Food Drive & Prize Raffle: (benefitting FEED MORE of Richmond, VA)
At the (dark) heart of the Richmond FANTASY BALL lies our captivating masked 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.
Not sure what MASK to wear ? Let DC Creators Body Art Collective paint one on you! This amazingly creative team is offering FREE Face Painted Masks from 7:00-8:00pm (during our "Gloomy Hour") in the Hofheimer Building's 2nd Floor Library / Lounge and then continuing in the Loft when doors open at 8:00 (until 9:00pm) – also available AFTER 9pm with a minimal fee associated.
Elevate your outfit/costume/cosplay to new heights by incorporating your mask and plan to join our “Masked COSTUME 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!
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!). Let your goodwill shine as we come together to make a positive impact on our community.
Prepare your taste buds for a journey into the extraordinary while at the Dark Valentine's 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.
Join us for a special GLOOMY HOUR from 7:00pm to 8:00pm in the 2nd Floor LIBRARY/LOUNGE on Friday the 13th (in Feb. 2026) before main doors at 8:00pm. Beat the line and get your Dark Valentine's started early.
NOTE: Requires a ticket to the Fantasy Ball.
This bewitching evening, offering a unique alternative to traditional, less creative Valentine’s themed events, the FANTASY BALL: A 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.
Dark Valentine's FANTASY BALL: A Morbid Masquerade is proud to be presented by After Dark RVA – with entertainment by Dollz Entertainment.
Get Friday the 13th (February 2026) on your dark calendars & invite your dark hearted friends. Don't delay in securing an Adv. Ticket as we can't guarantee any will be left night of the event!
DISCLAIMER: This event is rain or shine. All sales are final (but transferrable)
This event is 21+ and requires a valid photo I.D. for entry.
TICKETING / GENERAL QUESTIONS:
[email protected]
