Labyrinth of Jareth Masquerade Ball

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I attended my absolute favorite annual event this Summer! And it was just as grand as always. The Labyrinth of Jareth Masquerade Ball is such a stunning and creative special event for all those who enjoy a visual feast for the eyes. It’s basically a live action art museum full of wonder and imagination.

What is the Labyrinth of Jareth Masquerade Ball?

The event was originally based off of a short 10-minute scene from the old 80s classic coming-of-age film, Labyrinth. Starring Jennifer Connolly and David Bowie. The scene was a short dream sequence that featured a masquerade ball, illusions and mystical characters, plus a fantastic soundtrack by David Bowie. Now, the event basically encompasses all sorts of magical themes from the fantasy genre. From Movies, Video Games, Anime, Literature, Horror, Comic Books and just simple imagination. “The Labyrinth of Jareth Masquerade Ball was created as a celebration of creativity and fantasy. Taking influences from Venetian tradition, Celtic faerie and goblin lore, and stories of fantasy and wonder.”

The Labyrinth of Jareth Masquerade isn’t only about the costumes and dressing up. When you attend the event, you get access to an assortment of live entertainment.

Where is the Masquerade Ball venue located?

There are giant puppets, ballroom dancing and stage performers. There’s character interactions, acrobats, comedy shows, DJs, live music and more. The entire Millennium Biltmore Hotel Los Angeles opens up its doors to this event. With over half a dozen lavish ballrooms and event halls, the beautiful hotel opens its doors all catering to the masquerade. And if you are from out of town attending this event, the Millennium Biltmore Hotel also offers hotel rooms and suites to guests who wish to attend the event. Part of the Copthorne Hotel franchise, the hotel is a perfect establishment for this fantastical event.

I started attending this event back in 2008 with my husband. Our relationship was still very new at the time and we saw a flyer for it at a local renaissance faire. Ten years ago, the Masquerade Ball was still in its infancy as well and was located at a small Hollywood theater. It has since grown into an experience beyond explanation! It now resides at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles, California. Our costumes have also transitioned along with it each year.

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Masquerade Ball vs. Comic Con Events

A few people asked if The Labyrinth Masquerade and Comic Con events were basically the same thing. And the answer is NO WAY!
A friend of mine @dewildcosplay described it perfectly:
“The Masquerade is like being dropped into the forest scene in the James Cameron film, Avatar…it’s magical, enchanting, enticing and invigorating.
Comic Con is like going to a mega mall on the opening night of the most recent Marvel / DC movie.”

Costume Building & Ideas

Don’t worry if you have no idea how to sew, build or create your own custom costume. Store bought costumes are totally allowed. And even just wearing a nice evening dress and suit will suffice, as long as you don a mask along with it. No two costumes are ever alike.

All of my costumes were store bought in separate pieces, that I eventually put together to form a character of some kind. Amazon and Etsy have great finds! This year’s costume was semi-recycled from a previous year. My giant Rose headpiece was originally from Etsy from about 3 years ago. This year I wore it with a green sequin dress I found on Amazon. The dress originally had a mesh neckline with some green jewel collar. I cut that off and paired it with lovely bejeweled choker and shoulder necklace instead. Made a fan out of fake leaves and the cutout sequins to match the dress. Added more jewelry I found on Amazon, jeweled stickers on my face, and fake tattoos.

Buy Tickets for the Labyrinth of Jareth Masquerade Ball

Tickets to the event cost less than $100pp for a one night 6-hour evening of magical delight! (The event itself is actually two nights, Friday and Saturday evening. Dual-night tickets cost a bit more. We have always only attended on Saturdays.) There is also VIP tickets and an additional Magical Tea and Dining experience at extra cost.

If you are ever in the Los Angeles area during this event and you want to be mystified and bedazzled by an amazing feast for the eyes, then don’t miss out. Tickets usually go on sale 6-months before the event date. Sign up for the newsletter on their website to get updates.

For additional photo from previous years, visit my Years of Labyrinth Masquerade post. <—– Coming Soon.