Dressed in a wide range of magic inspired costumes, they were attending the annual witches’ coven at Hocus Pocus Tiny Hotel.
The event took over the entire hotel in Patrick Pool and included a magic themed tour of the city streets. It also involved other city businesses.
“It went really, really well,” said Camelia Audrei of Hocus Pocus Tiny Hotel. “People were all dressed up, more than last year, which was really nice, and everyone was really happy.
“We had lots of people coming back from last year and they came back with their friends.
“This is what we wanted to happen, to have a spot in the calendar of events in York, when everyone can dress in their costumes.”
Some of the 200 attendees brought their children with the youngest attendee being about four years old.
After receiving a blessing with burnt sage, they explored the delights of magic potions, saw a Tarot card reader, visited tea-drinking Victorians, saw a Gothic illustrator at work and competed in a best dressed competition before touring the streets of York with Mad Alice of The Bloody Tour of York acting as guide.
They were also entertained by a soprano opera singer, violinist and drummer.
“It’s a success because there are no events that are dedicated to people who believe in manifestations, in magic,” said Camelia.
“People who believe in good energy and positive vibes. We dedicate the event to people who are thinking in this way, in positive vibes.”
Several local businesses with magic connections, such as the Potions Cauldron, provided prizes or contributed to the event.
One pizzeria prepared a special witches’ coven pizza with “magical” ingredients and other businesses offered discounts and special offers for those attending the coven.
“We want more businesses to be part of it and give something during the weekend. It is good for them and good for us,” said Camelia.
Planning has already begun for the witches’ coven meeting next year.
This is the third year the hotel, run by Camelia and Vincent Roberts, has run the annual event.
