Jeff Mach

Events

For more than three decades, I’ve had the good fortune to help create spaces where people who love the unusual—Goths, Steampunks, pagans, rennies, cosplayers, makers, horror fans, people of woo, and all manner of creative misfits—can come together, share their passions, shop unique handmade goods, enjoy performances, and simply feel at home among kindred spirits. That was all I ever wanted, really.

These gatherings have always been about connection: wandering through markets filled with one-of-a-kind treasures, catching small-stage music or storytelling, trading ideas over curious games, or just soaking in the atmosphere of people being unapologetically themselves. From the large-scale festivals of years past to the more focused events today, the heart remains the same—welcoming everyone, in whatever attire feels right (everyday clothes, full costume, goggles and leather, patches and gear, or anything in between).

A few highlights from the journey include:

  • Steampunk World’s Fair — A beloved East Coast staple for years, bringing thousands together for immersive steampunk artistry, live acts, panels, and vendor halls.
  • Wicked Winter Renaissance Faire and its evolutions — Indoor Renaissance magic with artisan markets, entertainment, and a touch of fantasy flair.
  • Evil Expo — Ongoing celebration of villainy, villainpunk stories, dark creativity, and gleeful wickedness through panels and community.
  • Other favorites like Geeky Kink Event, Dark Force Fest, Midsummer Magick Faire, and various Halloween-themed markets that sparked so many friendships and inspirations.

Right now, the focus is on two standout gatherings that carry forward that same welcoming energy:The Odditorium Carnival (June 5–7, 2026, Saratoga County Fairgrounds, Ballston Spa, NY)
A weekend-long marketplace and wandering carnival dedicated to the odd and unusual. Picture a sprawling indoor/outdoor festival with independent creators offering gothic jewelry, pagan ritual tools, steampunk gadgets, Renaissance leatherwork, occult books and tarot, custom gaming gear, alternative fashion, taxidermy curiosities, horror memorabilia, bespoke costumes, and countless other handmade oddities you won’t find anywhere else. Add in curious games, roaming musicians, small-stage performances, storytelling circles, and plenty of relaxed spaces to browse and connect. It’s designed as a natural home for anyone who’s ever felt wonderfully uninterested in the ordinary—come as you are, and discover something delightfully strange. Vendor applications are still open if you’re in one of those creative niches.

The Great Catskills Halloween Vendor Market & Spectacle (now in its 13th year, October dates at Blackthorne Resort, East Durham, NY)
The Northeast’s largest free Halloween festival of its kind, drawing thousands for a weekend of spooky shopping, steampunk wonders, magical performances, oddities expos, and autumnal magic in the beautiful Catskills. It’s a sprawling vendor market combined with festival energy—free admission makes it accessible for everyone, and the lineup of performers, artisans, and eerie delights keeps growing. If you’re looking for that perfect Halloween escape with community, creativity, and no cover charge, this is it. Vendor spots and details are up at catskillshalloween.com.These events are labors of love, built by and for the people who show up—their enthusiasm, art, stories, and sense of belonging make every one special. Whether you’re a longtime attendee or someone just discovering this world, there’s always room for more voices, more curiosities, and more connections.Check them out soon:

Come wander, shop, laugh, and be wonderfully odd with us. We’d love to see you there.