Our #1 question: I am registered, now what do I do?
Answer: Check out our Digital Ticket Packet for all the latest information and print out directions to our location. Download our Dragonfest Camping Checklist of what to bring (it is just a suggested checklist, use your best judgement). Get ready to have a lot of fun!
Registration
Q: When does Registration open?
A: We strive to get registration open as early as possible, usually by April 1st. Go to the Registration page for the most up to date information.
Q: Where are my tickets?
A: We do online registration, so all you need is a photo ID to enter.
Q: When does the gate open?
A: The gate open at 10AM Wednesday for the full retreat. If you are weekend only you can check in after Friday 10AM.
Q: Can I register at the gate?
A: Pre-registration is preferred for this event. Check the registration page for at the gate availability and prices. If at the gate registrations are available, please have exact cash on hand as we will not accept checks or credit cards and change will not be available.
Q: Can I bring friends or family who are not registered?
A: No, everyone must be registered.
Q: Can I get day passes for my Handfasting or other special events?
A: Yes, but all handfastings must be coordinated with the Events Director events@dragonfest.org and provide a guest list to the Events Director no later then July 15th.
Q: Do I have to wear my wrist band?
A: Yes, you are require to wear this at all times! If are not comfortable wearing this on your wrist consider placing it on a necklace. The band lets us know you have registered and because they are color coded, they let us know if you are minor, legal age to drink, etc.
Q: I have moved or changed my email address since I registered. What do I do?
A: Send an email to registration@dragonfest.org as soon as possible and indicate both the old information as well as the new information so we can accurately correct the database.
What to Expect
Q: What kind of weather can I expect?
A: It is the Colorado mountains so expect anything! Normally, daytime highs are between 70-80 degrees and nights are 45-55 degrees, but we have seen extremes as high as 90 and low and 35. You may want to look at the forecast for Pine or Bailey before hand. We frequently have rain showers in the late afternoons. But we have been known to have long periods of rain as well. Dress in layers so you can easily adjust to the conditions. Bring long rain gear if you have it.
Q: Is there cell phone reception?
A: No.
Q: Are any meals provided?
A: We provide breakfast each morning usually starting at 8AM. Bob Keys Community Soup Dinner is at 5PM Saturday evening, bring a bowl and sides like bread, chips, or desserts. There are usually some gluten free options available for breakfast. And usually one of the soups is vegetarian or vegan. While we do our best to provide food for everyone that attends Dragonfest, many people cannot eat some or all of the food that is offered in the community center.
The kitchen staff provide all ingredients for the stone soup dinner, please do not bring ingredients. For food safety, we cannot accept or use any ingredients that are not procured by the kitchen witch.
Q: What amenities are on site?
A: Dragonfest will provide potties, a large roll off dumpster, and breakfast (see above). We ask that you pack out your recyclables. Everything else is your responsibility.
Q: How does the elevation affect me?
A: The site varies between 7,900 and 8,100 feet. This effects everyone differently, if you live on the front range these effects maybe mild. However, high altitude sickness is a thing, a headache is the cardinal symptom, sometimes accompanied by dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and in rare cases vomiting. Drink plenty of water and do not over exert yourself for the first 24-48 hours. If you have medical conditions or take medications you will want to consult your medical provider or pharmacist on the effect of high altitude.
Q: What if I use oxygen regularly?
A: First please speak to the doctor that manages your oxygen to be sure you are cleared to be in the mountains at about 8000 ft. Once you are cleared, you will need to provide all your own oxygen & any accessories or apparatus you may need to use your oxygen. That also includes your own power source if you use a concentrator or C-PAP.
Q: Do I need to plan to protect my food and camp from bears?
A: Bears are a possibility at Dragonfest, although we don’t usually see them. You should plan to put your food inside your vehicle each night to prevent bears from accessing it. The landowner also has several large livestock guardian dogs that roam on the property that could get into food that is left out or isn’t secured properly.
Q: Are fires allowed?
A: Unless there are state or county restrictions, wood or propane fires are allowed. However, there shall be absolutely no fires anywhere on the actual ground of the retreat. All fires should be contained in appropriate vessels above ground in an elevated fire pit or burn barrel. Each fire pit must have safety precautions in place such as a pail of water or a bucket of sand within 3 feet of the fire. We encourage propane fires as they are easy to maintain (no ash) and put out. Fire restrictions (bans) vary, some years wood will be banned but not propane. In 2002, wood and propane were both banned.
Q: What health related items do I need to bring to Dragonfest?
A: Prescription medications, sunblock, aloe, pain relievers such as ibuprofen and Tylenol, condoms, your own medical supplies and equipment for chronic health problems.
Q: What is the most common health problem reported at Dragonfest?
A: Dehydration. Remember you are at high altitude with lots of sun. Remember to drink lots of water and have electrolyte drinks such as Gatorade and Poweraid to re-hydrate with.
Q: Where do I get my T-shirt?
A: You will pick this up at the foundation booth, you will need to present you photo ID.
Q: Can I pick up T-shirts for other people?
A: Yes, if you can present the other persons’ I.D.
Q: Where is the community center, medical, safety, workshop areas (A,B,C,D, etc)?
A: There is a map included with the guidebook you get when you check in with the retreat.
Volunteering
Q: I want to be a member of the volunteer staff, what do I do?
A: We would love to have you, please go the volunteer page for more information.
Q: What are the dates and times of setup/takedown crew?
A: There are two setup/takedown shifts: Tuesday setup and Sunday takedown. In order to be considered for setup/takedown crew, you must be able to work both shifts. Tuesday setup shift takes place on the Tuesday before retreat begins usually around 10 AM. Sunday takedown shift takes place on Sunday, starting after retreat ends (immediately after the Giving Tree Ritual).
Q: What are the requirements for Setup Crew?
A: Volunteers must be physically able to perform setup/takedown tasks. This includes lifting up to 40 pounds, carrying, mobility at the festival site, and setting up shelters, tables, and chairs.
Rituals and Workshops
Q: I want to present a ritual, what do I do?
A: Great! Please contact the ritual coordinator at rituals@dragonfest.org
Q: How do I get word out to people of cancellation of a planned workshop gathering, etc?
A: Leave a message at the information booth.
Q: Can I have a private, closed to invite only ritual?
A: Yes you may, but realize that where you have it is subject to approval (depending how large) and you may have onlookers.
Q: I want to present a workshop, what do I do?
A: Great! Please contact the events coordinator at events@dragonfest.org
Q: Where may I have my workshop?
A: We have multiple workshop areas. The events coordinator will assign a time and place for each workshop. If you have special needs please let them know.
Q: May I say no children allowed in my workshop?
A: Yes you may. However we will ask for a brief explanation and warn you to be prepared for some to arrive with their children anyway.
Q: May my workshop be sky clad?
A: Yes, but you will have to have it in Bare Country. Make sure that you let the events coordinator know this.
Q: May I make my workshop preregistration only?
A: Yes you may, though we do ask that you set a deadline for folks to preregister and not be surprised if some still show up.
Q: May I charge for my workshop?
A: Many presenters have charged a small fee to cover the cost of materials, what that fee is, will be up to you. But please let the events coordinator know this so this can be published.
Youthfest and Teenfest
Q: What are Youthfest’s hours of operations?
A: Thursday, Friday and Saturday the hours are 9:45 – 12:15 and 12:45 – 5:15. Sunday hours are 9:15 – 12. These hours may change please program book on-site for more details.
Q: What sorts of snacks and beverages are offered in Youthfest?
A: We provide a limited supply of semi-healthy snacks such as fruits & veggies. We offer 100% juice and water to drink. Youthfest is a peanut-free zone.
Q: My kid is attending Youthfest. Do I need to do my work shift in Youthfest?
A: Yes, You need to complete an extra workshift in youthfest in order for your child to attend.
Q: Are there special events geared towards Teens?
A: We have a Teenfest coordinator to assist teens in making plans to experience Dragonfest in their own way. Teens also help create the community supper on Saturday night and they plan and lead the Closing Ritual on Sunday at 12 noon. Other items are posted in the program book and on the schedule as needed.
Q: Does teens have to attend Teenfest?
A: No, this is an optional gathering and safe place for our teenagers to meet one another and experience the retreat in they own way.
**Our Retreat FAQ is a work in progress so if you have a suggestion please let us know!