CROOKED DOG COMICS & THE WINDAMERE PRESENT

You step onto mossy ground, but instead of a firm, solid earth it feels soft, almost like a sponge under your feet. Trees loom overhead, tall and thick enough to almost block out the sky. Then you take in the scent of pine, dirt, and the freshness of the Spring greenery around you. You take a step then another and before you know it you've come to a log across your path. You bend down to touch the damp, rough bark, and to examine the tiny mushrooms sprouting in a crack in the wood. You smile. The small mushrooms remind you that the forest has personality and whimsy. Just then something touches your nose, something warm and glowing. Instinct wants you to swat it but you hesitate and it lingers a moment before fluttering away. You stand slowly. Another light comes into view then another then another. And that's when you notice the clear path into the forest.

You hike up your gown and step carefully over the log at your feet. The lights move just enough to lead you along and you move slowly enough not to startle them. You walk ten feet then twenty then thirty. Suddenly, you stop thinking about how far it's been because you hear music, laughter, even singing. You smell something new, foreign to the forest around you- food and drink. The trees part. The lights you had been following fly above you to join their friends over the clearing. You then notice the people - men and women dancing. Dancing, smiling, laughing with drinks in hand. You feel something rise in you as the music swells. You take one step then two, and then a hand appears before you. You see someone smiling at you with their hand outstretched. You grin widely and take that gentle hand. And you find yourself dancing.

Venue

Situated in the heart of Middletown, OH, The Windamere is the perfect backdrop for an evening of dancing, food, entertainment and merriment. Step inside this building with its rich history and see its transformation into a magical, enchanted forest.

Entertainment

As you step into our Enchanted Forest, you will be met with the whimsical tones of a harp. Then gather round the dance floor to watch the beautiful silk fan performance by Miss Simone De Love. Then the party will truly begin. DJ Ron Perry will be playing music from your favorite booktok accounts and your favorite dance music. Prepare to dance the night away!

This is an 18+ event.

Merchants

Immerse yourself further into the fantasy world with a book from Crooked Dog Comics. Enhance your gown with a tiara from Mystic Crystal Cove. Try some tea from Green Feather Apothecary and don’t forget to take some home to drink while getting lost in the world of your latest novel. Hedgestone Farm will also be on hand with a potion-making station for you to purchase.

The Traveler’s Toll

With this general admission option, you’ll receive entry into the Enchanted Forest fantasy ball, appetizers and a cash bar with specialty cocktails and mocktails. The above entertainment is for your enjoyment, along with a whimsical scavenger hunt with a delightful prize.

Seat of the Realm

Do you wish to sit and revel with your fellow travelers? This option gives you a reserved seat at one of our large tables in addition to the toll of the traveler. Each table holds 8 people- you may purchase the whole table for you and your party of revelers.

The High Court

This option includes the toll of the traveler, and so much more. Enjoy early entry into the ball at 6:30PM. Sit upstairs in an exclusive court with friends new and old. Each traveler will receive their seat in the court with an exclusive cash bar, two drink tickets, a bracelet commemorating their seat of honor, and a unique pin.

  • We will have a harpist playing at the beginning of the evening and will be moving into DJ played music as the night progresses for dancing.

  • Modern weapons & firearms are strictly prohibited. Prop weapons must be sheathed & peace-tied and will be checked upon entry.

  • We welcome all formal attire. Maybe you like a ball gown, maybe you prefer something whimsical, maybe you prefer pants and a sword. This is your chance to be creative!

  • Yes! We will have Jessica & Sarah Photography on hand providing professional photography of the event.