Mesa County Fantasy Faire

09/04/2026

Here is a map courtesy of Randie Lemons and Valley of the Nerds.

Maps are subject to change and when in doubt feel free to stop by the Guild of Compassion or the Security tent.

09/04/2026

We have a bit of an emergency — I need not one, not two, but all three of my cosplay judges. I have score sheets and clear judging instructions ready to go, so even if you’ve never judged before, you’ll be able to step in confidently.

If you’re interested, please email me at [email protected]. I’ll send you everything you need and let you know what time to be on site.

09/04/2026

This is it. After a nearly a year of blood, sweat, tears, screaming, crying, and pure excitement, today marks the first day of the Mesa County Fantasy Faire. Let’s kick off this weekend with some thanks.

To the Avant Guard, Valley of the Nerds, Wendy, Howard, Lucky, Chance, and William—many people helped, but this core group was the backbone of the event. Real talk: it would not have happened at this level without you.

To our neighbor, thank you for allowing us to use your space for much‑needed parking.

To everyone who showed up on Volunteer Days and to those who stepped up across countless aspects of the faire—volunteering can sometimes feel thankless, but we see you, and we appreciate you.

To the local government and media—Arts & Culture Commission, KAFM, Mesa County Digest, the County Commissioners, Planning, the Clerk and Recorder’s Office, and various members of the county—thank you for believing in the vision, helping us share it, and supporting us in legally hosting it.

To everyone who shared posts, talked about the event with friends, family, and coworkers—word of mouth is essential to the success of any event, and you helped make the magic real.

To every vendor, performer, and guild who stepped up to make this event extraordinary—many of you came in with no expectations, simply excited to be part of the magic. As an organizer, I hope we met at least the basics of what you needed. There is always room for improvement, but thank you for rolling with us, keeping communication open, and giving me grace as we build something together.

Now—let’s show them what all this hard work was for. We’ll see you on the fairgrounds.

—Dierdre, aka Haitian Red aka Shalini
Organizer, chaos wrangler, jack‑of‑all‑trades, and eternally grateful human.

09/03/2026

Friday Night Headliner Announcement

Grand Junction, brace yourself — Friday night is about to go full pop‑punk.

We’re thrilled to announce Scotty Knows as the official Friday Night Headliner for the Mesa County Fantasy Faire 2026.

Hailing from right here in Grand Junction, CO, Scotty Knows brings the perfect blend of Pop Punk / Emo / 2000s nostalgia, tight musicianship, and that “garage you went to in 11th grade — but tighter” energy..

With influences like Blink‑182, Fall Out Boy, MCR, Paramore, Sum 41, Yellowcard, and more, they deliver the kind of set that hits you right in the teenage soul and keeps you dancing under the festival lights.

Expect, high‑octane pop‑punk covers, crowd‑favorite 2000s anthems (yes, including Mr. Brightside), a stage presence that feels like the best parts of growing up, and five performers who look like they walked straight out of a Warped Tour time machine.

Come early, stay loud, and bring your friends — because Scotty Found Out… and he’s better for it. If you know, you know.

09/03/2026

09/03/2026

09/02/2026

We've been receiving several questions regarding the Fantasy Ball so I will address them in detail here.

If you’re joining us on Saturday for The Crown’s Merriment, you’re already invited to the Fantasy Ball — it’s part of your ticket and woven right into the evening’s festivities.

The Fantasy Ball isn’t a separate event; it’s one of the signature experiences inside the Saturday block. Throughout the evening you’ll enjoy:

* A royal procession leading you into the night’s celebration
* A thrilling fire performance to kick off the merriment
* Tapas‑style bites served throughout the block
* A meet‑and‑greet with the King and Queen
* The Fantasy Ball itself — a social dance gathering where you can show off your finest faire attire, dance, mingle with fellow nobles, and capture magical photo moments

Whether you love dancing, dressing up, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the Ball is your chance to step fully into the world of the Faire. If you have a Saturday ticket, you’re already on the guest list.

Dress in your faire best, bring your friends, and come ready to celebrate — we’ll see you at the Ball!

09/02/2026

This is Ralph of The River Sweets — official architect, supervisor, and royal canine.

Apparently I’m the one slacking. That look says my pay is getting docked or I’m headed straight for the stocks.

His Majesty has zero time for the magic box sticking out of my face.

09/02/2026

My operating system is about to crash.

I need photos of pets in costumes. Bonus points if it’s Renaissance Festival or Faire‑themed — and extra bonus if it’s your pet.