Romance and fantasy fans have a special gathering to look forward to as the Fables & Flames Romantasy Gala takes over a Bloomington hotel for three days of books, authors, and immersive entertainment. Running November 6–8, the event brings together readers, writers, and artists for author signings, literary panels, themed parties, and fantasy-inspired activities. From a grand Fantasy Ball to a mermaid pool party, the weekend offers plenty beyond the usual book convention experience.
Fables & Flames Turns a Bloomington Hotel Into a Three-Day Romantasy Celebration
Romance and fantasy readers have a full weekend of activities waiting for them at the Fables & Flames Romantasy Gala, taking place November 6–8 at the Hilton Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport in Bloomington. The three-day gathering brings together readers, authors, narrators, artists, and vendors for an event built around romantasy, a genre that blends romantic storylines with fantasy settings and magical elements. Now in its second year, the gala aims to create an immersive environment where guests can connect with others who share their interests. The program combines traditional book-convention activities, including author signings and literary discussions, with themed entertainment and social gatherings. The event is open exclusively to adults aged 18 and older. Visitors can choose from individual day passes, standard three-day admission, and VIP three-day packages, depending on how much of the convention they want to experience.
Author Signings, Literary Panels, and a Marketplace Give Fans Plenty to Explore
Meeting the writers behind favorite fictional worlds is a major part of the Fables & Flames experience. The convention features author appearances, book signings, readings, and discussions with established and emerging writers. Featured guests include Brigid Kemmerer, Rachel Rener, and other authors and narrators working across romance and fantasy. The panel schedule explores subjects such as dark romantasy, paranormal romance, monster romance, and the growing place of romantic fantasy within epic fantasy publishing. There are also conversations about the writing process, the business of books, and the different levels of romance and intimacy found across the genre. Beyond the stage sessions, the author and vendor halls give attendees time to browse book-themed merchandise, handmade crafts, artwork, apparel, and collectibles. A publishing-focused workshop also offers practical information about editing, self-publishing, traditional publishing, and querying. Together, these activities make the gala useful not only for readers but also for aspiring writers and people interested in the publishing industry.
A Fantasy Ball, Mermaid Pool Party, and Burlesque Show Add an Unusual Twist
Books are only part of what makes this gathering different from a conventional literary convention. Fables & Flames also builds its schedule around live entertainment and fantasy-inspired experiences. Friday night’s program includes a burlesque and drag show, while Saturday brings the signature Fantasy Ball, where attendees are encouraged to dress in gowns, armor, or other fantasy-inspired outfits and dance to music from Theology Music. The hotel’s pool area hosts a mermaid gathering on Saturday, with performers meeting guests both in and around the water. Other scheduled attractions include ballroom and tango dance lessons, fantasy-themed board games, a dragon painting session, and a themed escape-room experience. The wider entertainment lineup also includes aerial performances and a fire show, adding a theatrical element to the weekend. These activities give guests several ways to take part, whether they prefer dressing up for the ball, watching a performance, or trying something creative with other attendees.
Tea Parties, Book Exchanges, and Quiet Rooms Make Space for Readers to Connect
Amid the performances and busy convention schedule, Fables & Flames also makes room for quieter activities built around conversation and reading. Its author tea parties give attendees an opportunity to meet romance writers in a more relaxed setting while enjoying tea, light refreshments, and conversation. The Saturday program includes two scheduled tea-party sessions, making it possible for more guests to participate. The book exchange offers another simple way to connect: attendees can bring pre-loved books and trade them for different titles, giving stories a chance to find new readers. A dedicated quiet room remains available throughout the event for anyone who needs a break from the crowds, noise, and packed schedule. Visitors can also explore the vendor areas, join speed-friending activities, or spend time with other readers between sessions. The organizers have included these spaces to make the gathering more welcoming to people attending alone as well as groups of friends. For a convention centered on shared literary interests, those opportunities to meet and connect are an important part of the experience.
