About this Event
The Long Dark House — Soft Launch Celebration
🗓️ Sunday, June 29, 2026
⏰ 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Something new is beginning.
Join us for the official soft launch celebration of The Long Dark House — a forthcoming indie bookstore and gathering space rooted in horror, sci-fi, speculative fiction, and strange stories that stay with you long after the last page.
This evening is designed as an introduction to the world we’re building: a space for readers, writers, artists, and curious minds to gather, connect, and help shape a new community-centered literary space in the DMV.
Guests are invited to spend the evening exploring a curated bookstore pop-up, meeting fellow book lovers, learning more about upcoming book clubs and future programming, enjoy light appetizers, and enjoying an intimate author reading and signing (author announcement coming soon).
Throughout the evening, guests can also explore selections from:
🕯️ Hemlock & Hearth — Southern Gothic fragrance house
🌙 Eclipse Botanical — whimsigoth-inspired soaps & self-care goods
Guests will also have the opportunity to enjoy tarot readings, contribute to future book club and membership ideas, and help shape the future community surrounding The Long Dark House.
Each ticket will include a custom commemorative votive candle or body oil from Hemlock & Hearth while supplies last, along with entry into a community raffle featuring curated books, candles, gifts, and other surprises throughout the evening.
This event also serves as a fundraiser supporting the next chapter of The Long Dark House and helping us continue building toward future programming, pop-ups, and a permanent home.
Thank you for supporting independent bookselling, local creatives, and the dream of building more meaningful third spaces for our community.
✨ What to Expect
• Author reading & signing (TBA)
• Tarot readings
• Curated bookstore pop-up w/Horror, sci-fi & speculative fiction selections
• Information on future book clubs & membership/community offerings
• Candles, fragrance, soaps & gifts from local brands
• Community raffle & giveaways
• Small bites & treats
• Cozy atmosphere, conversation, and community
We can’t wait to welcome you into the first chapter of The Long Dark House.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Elaine's, 208 Queen Street, Alexandria, United States
USD 28.52
