July 15, 2026 NEW YORK, NY There is a distinct kind of Manhattan summer Saturday—thick with humidity, a little chaotic, and crackling with anticipation—that feels entirely built for miracles. On July 11, 2026, that exact atmosphere settled over Astor Place.
But instead of the usual rush of skateboarders, frantic commuters, and tourists navigating the East Village, the historic crossroads between Broadway and Lafayette was utterly transformed. WitchsFest USA celebrated its landmark 15th anniversary, and New York Craze was right there in the thick of it, having the absolute time of our lives.
Billed as "Ye Olde Pagan Faire," this wasn’t just your average New York street festival with the standard funnel cakes and tube socks. It was a living, breathing, joyfully vibrant, and radically inclusive family reunion that proved NYC’s magical heart is beating stronger, louder, and prouder than ever.
Photos: Erica Kimble
The Sights, the Sounds, and the Spellbinding Showcases
Walking onto the festival grounds felt like crossing an invisible, shimmering boundary into another realm. The pavement of Astor Place was lined with dozens of unique merchants, esoteric practitioners, and a main stage that kept the energy electric from the morning opening to the late-afternoon wrap-up.
The sheer variety of talent, artistry, and spiritual depth on display was an absolute feast for the senses. Here are the standout experiences that defined the day for us:
1. Wearable Art with Prince Peacock Jewelry
Our first stop was the Prince Peacock Jewelry booth, and it was impossible to walk past without staring. Specializing in stunning, whimsical, and vintage-inspired designs, their display was a treasure trove of statement pieces. From intricate animal motifs to celestial charms, these weren’t just accessories—they felt like wearable talismans designed to help you channel your inner high priestess. The craftsmanship was immaculate, and watching attendees light up as they found the "perfect" piece to match their energy was a joy in itself.
Photos: Erica Kimble
2. Deep Roots with The Temple of Hecate INC
One of the most grounding and profound spaces at the faire was hosted by The Temple of Hecate INC. As a powerhouse of local pagan community building, their presence offered a beautiful sanctuary for both the curious and the devoted. They provided deep insights into ancient traditions, devotional practices, and the history of Hecate—the goddess of the crossroads. It felt incredibly poetic to connect with her temple right there at one of Manhattan's most famous physical crossroads.
Photos: Erica Kimble
3. The Hypnotic Harmonies of Lala Suarez
When Lala Suarez took the main stage, the entire atmosphere of Astor Place shifted. Her performance was nothing short of hypnotic. With a voice that seemed to carry the weight of ancient storytelling mixed with a modern, soulful edge, she had the entire crowd swaying in unison. It was one of those rare, beautiful New York moments where the city noise faded into the background, replaced entirely by enchanting melodies and collective awe.
Photos: Erica Kimble
Photo: Erica Kimble
4. The Bewitching Movement of Royal Enchantment Dance Company
Just when we thought the energy couldn’t get any higher, the Royal Enchantment Dance Company delivered a performance that literally stopped foot traffic on Lafayette Street. Their choreography was a breathtaking blend of rhythm, storytelling, and theatrical magic. Draped in stunning, flowing attire, the dancers moved with a powerful, synchronized grace that felt like a physical manifestation of a spell. It was dramatic, beautifully executed, and left the crowd cheering for more.
Finding Zen and Community in the Concrete Jungle
Among the bustling vendor tents, the aromatic sweet smoke of burning sage, and the steady rhythm of the live bands, there were also moments of deep, restorative peace.
That sentiment of homecoming and relief was shared by Rev. Alexander Cabot, holding rank as an Elder in both Salem and NYC, looked out over the sprawling, smiling crowd with pride:
“This is a wonderful turnout. It’s always been like a homecoming at this festival.”
15 Years of Pure Civic Magic
Hosted annually by the NYC Wiccan Family Temple, WitchsFest USA has spent the last decade and a half evolving from a small, passionate gathering into a massive, beloved civic institution.
What makes WitchsFest so uniquely magical is its radical, open-hearted inclusivity. You didn't need to be an initiated Wiccan, a practicing Druid, or even own a single tarot card to feel like you belonged. The festival welcomed everyone with open arms—families with strollers, curious neighborhood locals, seasoned practitioners, and wide-eyed tourists alike. Between the high-energy entertainment, the gorgeous marketplace, and the 13 completely free educational workshops covering everything from herbalism to spiritual pathworking, there was space for every soul.
Photo: Erica Kimble
As the late-afternoon sun began to dip behind the historic buildings of Astor Place, casting a golden-hour glow over a crowd filled with laughter, new friendships, and sparkling crystals, one thing became absolutely clear: WitchsFest is the ultimate love letter to New York City. It is a vibrant, living proof that even in a bustling metropolis of millions, we can still gather to celebrate the sacred, the artistic, and the beautifully unique.
If you missed out on the 15th-anniversary magic this year, do yourself a massive favor: put it on your radar for next summer. Trust me, your soul—and your inner magic—will thank you.
Select Your Borough and GO!
You must be logged in to apply, comment or inquire.