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Guests outfitted themselves in fantastical and unique costume creations. (Greg Autry)

The sweep of gowns and the sleek shine of men’s dress shoes graced the steps of the Park Plaza hotel in historic downtown Los Angeles for a holiday celebration of a different world. At the Labyrinth of Jareth Masquerade over July 4 and 5, guests outfitted themselves in fantastical costumes and masks for the event’s seventeenth year.

While fireworks lit up the sky outside, this menagerie of mythical proportions hosted an array of living lights and colors inside. Blinking bulb wings, the sparkle of a corset, the glimmer of the scales on red dragon armor and smoke emitting from top hats – the sights of the ball were a feast.

Wandering into the lobby you found various life (and death) forms of fantasy lore, like vampires, fairies, princesses and, yes, Goblin Kings. Inspired by Jim Henson’s Labyrinth, there were many Jareths frolicking about with a variety of Sarahs.

Speaking of variety, there were a lot of familiar faces among attendees’ unique creations, a multitude of Game of Thrones and Disney characters lounged about. We’re talking all the Daeneryses, Belles, Jon Snows and even assassins (from “Assassin’s Creed”) you could imagine. The twists each individual took on their interpretations were so distinct. You would find yourself next to Jorah Mormont in a tent outside having tea – yes, in this heat. But come on, it’s part of the experience.

There was definitely a sense of magic to see ladies in princess dresses dancing the night away in a ballroom where, if you didn’t know how to dance, quick lessons were offered. The outdoor gardens hosted ethereal dances to live drummers and interactive experiences with demons and fae of the realm. Performances in the main halls varied from live choir troupes to rock acts.

Everything the night presented conjured whimsical memories of dance, song, drink and the jovial company of friends that attendees are not likely to forget unless they of course had a bit too much of the elixirs poured throughout the night. In any case, this is not an event to miss next year.

For more information, visit labyrinthmasquerade.com.

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