About The Dark Ones
F.A.Q. from Newcomers
Who are the Dark Ones?
We are a social group of about 50 active people, with a support group of over 100. We host themed parties, which include cosplay, music, games, food and drink. We also encourage folks to socialize, organizing group attendance to movies or other local events, playing games, sharing meals, etc.
You can find us on Facebook:
What is the history of the Dark Ones?
This group started in the late ‘80s with D&D nerds writing in a ‘Challenge Book’ in a game store, who got together to run games at sci-fi conventions and throw themed parties. As the group grew, more like-minded people came together, and the Dark Ones were formed.
Between 1995 and 2015 we periodically organized and ran a science fiction / fantasy convention called DarkCon. The Dark Ones currently host house parties in the Phoenix metro area.
In 2011, The New Times awarded us “Best of Phoenix” as the “Best Club for Misfits”. 🙂
Are there any events coming up?
We host three themed/costume house-parties a year that are open to adults over 18. Currently these are held in March, August & October at various metro Phoenix, Arizona private homes.
How do I attend a Dark Ones event?
If you want information on attending one of our events, you may contact us here:
How do I contact the Dark Ones?
If you have any question, you may contact us here:
F.A.Q. About Party Going
Who can come to a Dark Ones event?
Attendees must be 18+; alcohol is only allowed for people 21+.
RSVP: Our events are held at private homes. If you wish to attend please RSVP from the event invite or by contacting us:
What is the Smoking Policy?
There will be designated Non-Smoking areas at each event, and signs will be posted.
Some examples: Inside the home / The Dance Floor / Bar Line / Entries to Non-Smoking Areas (like a back porch).
Smoking and Vaping will only be permitted in areas where ashtrays or ashcans are provided. Please respect the non-smoking areas so that everyone can enjoy the party.
Marijuana (et al) is not allowed at our events.
Animal Policy
Service animals are not automatically allowed at our events, due to some of our sites having their own animals.
The animal owner is required to clean up after, and maintain control over it at all times. If there are any issues, you will be asked to leave.
If you wish to bring an animal to an event, please contact us at least a week in advance, to get approval. https://forms.gle/4fMotmwAtGnNykzZ8
Weapons Policy
Real weapons (and realistic props) are restricted at Dark Ones events.
Exceptions:
- We encourage Bladed Weapons to be peace-bonded and sheathed.
- Costume pieces approved by designated staff.
- Designated Staff.
Anyone brandishing a weapon in a way deemed unsafe by Designated Staff will be asked to put the item in a car or other offsite location.
If you have questions about this policy, please contact the Event Head.
...Attendance Tips
What should I wear?
A thematically-appropriate costume is great, we offer several suggestions with each event’s description – and if you’d rather not dress up, that’s totally fine too, many people are not in costume.
What is a Dark Ones name?
This is the name you can use when attending our events. All of our members use persona names, non-members are not required to have a Dark Ones Name, but if you have an alternate name/persona that you like to use, feel free!
What drinks will be available?
We typically have beer, cider, and mixed drinks to share with attendees (over 21), and have water, soda, and other non-alcoholic options available as well.
What food will be available?
We provide a link to a Potluck Page (found on the event invite) for suggestions on food you can bring, so that everyone can have a little something to eat. Even a bag of chips or a veggie tray is a great addition!
Can I volunteer?
We always need help with setting up and cleaning up the party site before and after; additionally we have areas during the party we always need help with: Gate, Kitchen, Bar, etc. If you’re willing to give us a couple hours at any point, we’d love it!:
How can I donate?
Our events are completely paid for by donation, so leaving cash in the Donation Jar at the Bar is very appreciated. You can also send money in advance of a party via Paypal.
F.A.Q. About the Dark Ones Organization
Is the Dark Ones a nonprofit?
We are an Arizona 501(c)(10), fraternal organization.
In Arizona, a 501(c)(10) domestic fraternal society, order, or association, is a non-profit organization that has a fraternal purpose, and devotes its net earnings exclusively to that fraternal purpose.
What are the member categories?
Non-members include event attendees, volunteers, and many guild participants.
Dark Ones Members include both Dark Ones and Dark Ones Associates.
Our events are run by both our members, and many non-member volunteers. Volunteers can help with event-related tasks, and use the opportunity to get to know our members better. Non-members may also attend our business meetings and are welcome to join our guilds.
What are the guilds?
To organize our volunteer efforts, we have five guilds in charge of major areas of the events. The major areas are: Food & Drink, Decor & Games, Entry Gate, Set-up and Cleanup.
We encourage new people that want to get more involved to volunteer, for more information:
We use a fantasy and medieval backdrop to frame our personae and our events to bring the flavor of those worlds to the activities of today. We have 91 members, spanning sixteen states. Our parties are legendary across the Southwest and beyond. Since DarkCon started in 1995 we have continued to push the boundaries of Fantasy, Science Fiction and Gaming Conventions in the world of Fandom.
In the lineage of our mind’s eye we are family. Through personae we share a common history; a history born of adventure. Our stories cross many worlds and the intersections of our fellowship are truly timeless. We are fierce individuals that in our rituals of group, find unity. The bloodlines of our house run strong and true. Become a part of the adventure, live your past, create your future… The Dark Ones.