FAQ - Wizard Retreat Weekend

Frequently Asked Questions

Huh? What’s a retreat?

The definition of retreat is: a place of privacy or safety.

We love attending conventions where we can go to panels, theme parties, & fan meetups, but this is a different type of event. We’re creating a wizard’s haven, where we can unplug from the mundane world & focus on the magic of our fandom.

Our goal is for the weekend to feel like the wizard family getaway you never had as a kid!

What is the venue like?

Guest House, in Chester, CT is a charming, historic retreat & conference center in the Connecticut River Valley. They offer spacious guest rooms with private bathrooms, superb cuisine, attractive meeting spaces, & a comfortable and nurturing environment. You won’t find any one-size fits all hotel rooms or conference spaces. We have exclusive use of the entire center!

This is a lot of money was does the price include?

The cost is higher than that of a single “convention” ticket because it’s all-inclusive. Think about what the cost of another fan event weekend might cost:

2 nights’ accommodations ($100/pp if sharing a room with 2-4 people)
Ticket (from $75)
Breakfast (2 @ $15 each)
Lunch (2 @ $20 each)
Dinner & Drinks (2 @ $40 each)
Snacks & Beverages throughout the weekend ($30)

Are the fridges or microwaves available?

Your retreat package includes all food & drinks, however, you are welcome to bring your own as well. There is a communal fridge & microwave in the dining hall. Just make sure to label everything! The hotel also provides 24/7 water, tea, & coffee.

How is Guest house different from a hotel?

Guest House has unique lodgings, all rooms are different! Some have three twin beds, some a queen & a single bed, some just a queen with the option of a rollaway bed. Book early to receive your preference. All rooms are spacious, with a full bath, & ample closet/drawer space. (Plenty of room for cosplay!) Rooms DO NOT have a phone or TV, however, the wifi is high speed and cell service is very good!

There is no daily maid service – we’re on retreat! If you need additional towels or linens during your two-night stay, they can be requested at the front desk.

Bring your own toiletries! Guest House is a proud Certified Green Lodging. They provide hand soap in all rooms, however you should plan to bring your own shampoo, conditioner, moisturizer, etc. If you forget, some toiletries are available for purchase at the front desk.

All in one pricing means no more than three guests to a room. We can accommodate adjoining rooms on a limited basis for larger groups. Guests will only be able to book a room with a full registration.

Meals are included? Is that required? Can they accommodate my dietary needs?

Meals ARE included. The food at Guest House is delicious & prepared on site. (All house elves are paid. #SPEW) Food is included in the retreat package price, no substitutions or exclusions can be made. The venue is very accommodating to dietary restrictions & food allergies. Please note these on your initial application form & we will make Guest House staff aware before our arrival.

What kind of activities can I expect?

We thought you’d never ask! Throughout the weekend there will be opportunities for small group programming. No waiting in line to get into panels – these are interactive, pre-selected classes & activities designed with your interests in mind!

Before the weekend you will be invited to submit a survey selecting your top 3-4 activity preferences from a full & very descriptive list of options. Previous sessions included, but were not limited to, Quidditch, crafts & knitting, wizard yoga, book discussions, potion-making, & more.

I am attending alone. Will I have a good time? Can you help me find a roommate?

This convention is PERFECT for those attending alone. With personally selected, small group activities there will be plenty of opportunities to meet new people with common interests.

Is the venue handicap accessible?

Yes, most spaces at Guest House are completely accessible with ramps, ground floor rooms, and an elevator. There are only a couple spaces in the venue accessible by stairs only, so please note on your application any accessibility needs and we will be happy to accommodate.

What is the dress code? Do I have to dress up in costume?

You are welcome to dress however you like – from full dress robes to yoga pants & sneakers. Depending on your choice of activity, it may be important to be comfortable. You may want to pack warm layers, especially if you are going to be outside playing quidditch or at the bonfire!

Are children allowed?

We love the kids of the Harry Potter community, however, this space is not conducive to children’s activities. Therefore, this is an 18+ convention

That’s cool, I don’t have kids. Can I bring my frog?

Sorry, Guest House does not allow animals, magical or otherwise. Service animals are welcome.