Within social media, fantasy transcends traditional fairy tales and fictional universes. Entrepreneurs are utilizing platforms like Instagram and TikTok to design immersive experiences, allowing individuals to explore alternate dimensions to fulfill their desires for an evening.
These fantasy-themed balls and masquerades are gaining popularity among Millennials and Gen Z, tapping into a market hungry for unique experiences after the challenges of the pandemic. With tickets ranging from $60 to thousands, attendees fully commit to their characters, diving into elaborate storylines or mingling with character actors.
These events centered around fantasy provide a range of experiences, from deeply immersive role-playing to more relaxed socializing in fantasy-themed outfits. Ticket costs vary widely, accommodating various budgets and preferences. Emerging companies in this niche market leverage social media extensively for promotion, capitalizing on the post-pandemic demand for unique experiences. Sales have been strong, especially among Millennials and Gen Z, aiding the expansion of the global events sector, estimated to achieve a $2 billion valuation by 2032.
Leading the charge is a wave of new companies like Eudantria Events, founded by Katherine Stinson. This company offers highly immersive experiences with original world-building guides and character archetypes. The demand is remarkable, often resulting in events selling out within mere hours of releasing tickets.
These events foster a sense of community and connection beyond mere escapism, offering a reprieve from the societal divisions fueled by social and political tensions. Attendees like Dana John from Texas see them as a way to bring a bit of magic into the real world and build friendships with like-minded individuals.
READ ALSO: 4 Podcasts by Female Authors That Will Unlock Your Writing Inspiration
The popularity of fantasy-themed balls is boosted by the success of romance and fantasy books, especially among Millennial women. Events themed after popular book series attract fans interested in their favorite novels. Romantasy, a blend of romance and fantasy, has been popular, with the hashtag gaining almost one billion views on TikTok. Google searches for it have risen significantly since 2023 and continue to climb this year.
Organizers target a new audience by promoting their events as 'book balls' on BookTok, a popular TikTok subcommunity focused on discussing romance and fantasy novels. These events may be themed after specific books or romance tropes, allowing participants to dress up as characters or enjoy the fantasy atmosphere. This approach broadens accessibility to the events, making them more inclusive for those less familiar with traditional fantasy settings. For instance, Hushfable's upcoming ball, themed after Sarah J. Maas' "ACOTAR" series, quickly sold out to over 1,000 participants, showcasing the appeal of this approach.
With increasing competition in the market, organizers need to proceed cautiously to meet their obligations and avoid dissatisfaction. Despite the high demand for immersive experiences, there is a potential for disappointment if events fail to meet attendees' expectations.
Nevertheless, the enduring appeal of fantasy balls persists. For countless individuals, these events provide a vital respite from the ordinary, allowing them to explore diverse aspects of themselves within a secure and imaginative realm. As long as dreamers yearn for enchantment, fantasy events are poised to maintain their captivating allure.
RELATED ARTICLE: How 'Romantasy' Dominates the World of Literature