The Mesa County Fantasy Faire is a three‑day outdoor festival hosted at Sweet River, a natural‑terrain venue in Orchard Mesa. This FAQ is designed to help you plan your visit with confidence—covering tickets, parking, accessibility, weather, what to bring, and other essentials. Because the Faire takes place on rustic ground with variable September weather, we encourage guests to dress comfortably, prepare for outdoor conditions, and review our accessibility information before attending. For any questions not answered here, our Event Coordinator is available at 312sweetriver@gmail.com or (970) 462‑7631.
Ticketing
When do the tickets go on sale?
Tickets are on sale starting April 1, 2026.
Are tickets refundable?
Tickets are refundable until August 1. After that date, all sales are final.
Do I need to print my ticket?
Printed or digital tickets are both accepted.
Can I leave and come back?
Yes. Re‑entry is allowed with an untampered wristband.
Event Hours & Check‑In
What are the event hours?
Friday: 12 PM–10 PM
Saturday: 10 AM–10 PM
Sunday: 10 AM–5 PM
Where do I check in?
Check in at the main gate. Signs will guide you on arrival.
Location
Where is the Faire held?
The event takes place at Sweet River Outdoor Event Venue in Orchard Mesa, Colorado.
Parking & Accessibility
Is parking free?
Yes. Parking is free for all guests.
Is the event ADA accessible?
The Faire provides ADA‑friendly restrooms, pathways, and signage. Please note that Sweet River is a natural‑terrain venue with uneven ground, grass, and dirt pathways, which may present challenges for some mobility devices.
A full Accessibility Statement is available below.
Pets & Service Animals
Are pets allowed?
Only trained service animals or approved performing animals are permitted. Emotional support or comfort animals are not allowed.
Food & Drink
Can I bring outside food or drinks?
No outside food or drink is allowed. Re‑entry is permitted if you need to leave and return.
What to Wear & Bring
How should I dress?
Dress for September weather and rustic outdoor terrain. Costumes are encouraged and comfortable, sturdy shoes are strongly recommended.
What should I bring with me?
Items that help with outdoor comfort—such as sunscreen, hats, water bottles, and layers for changing temperatures—are encouraged.
Payments
Do you accept credit cards, or is it cash‑only?
Credit cards are accepted online and in person. Cash is also accepted at the gate and by many vendors.
Weather
What happens if it rains? Is the event still on?
The Faire continues rain or shine. Some weather‑sensitive attractions—such as fire performances and aerial arts—may be delayed or canceled if conditions are unsafe. All other programming will continue as scheduled whenever possible.
Families
Is the event family‑friendly?
Yes. The Faire is designed to be welcoming and enjoyable for guests of all ages.
Veterans
Do Veterans get free admission?
Yes. Veterans receive free admission and must pick up a complimentary wristband from Wendy at the Veterans Art Center before attending.
Mesa County Fantasy Faire Accessibility Statement
The Mesa County Fantasy Faire is committed to providing an event experience that is welcoming, inclusive, and accessible to as many guests as possible. As required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), all public events—including outdoor festivals—must offer reasonable access for guests with disabilities. This applies even when the event is held on natural, uneven terrain like Sweet River Outdoor Event Venue.
Sweet River is a rustic outdoor property with grass, dirt pathways, and natural elevation changes. While the landscape presents limitations, we follow ADA guidelines for temporary outdoor events and implement accommodations designed to support safe and meaningful participation.
Accessibility Requirements for Outdoor Events
The ADA recognizes that outdoor venues cannot always be fully modified. Instead, event organizers must provide reasonable accessibility, focusing on:
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Accessible routes that are firm, stable, and navigable
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Clear and visible signage
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Accessible parking and drop‑off areas
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ADA‑compliant restrooms
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Communication access
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Staff trained to assist guests with accessibility needs
Colorado’s statewide event guidelines reinforce these expectations and emphasize selecting the most accessible paths, using temporary solutions where needed, and ensuring at least one accessible route to key activity areas.
Terrain & Accessible Routes
Sweet River’s natural terrain includes uneven ground, grass, and dirt surfaces. To support accessibility:
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We establish designated accessible routes using the firmest and most stable ground available.
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These routes connect the entrance, vendor areas, restrooms, and primary activity zones.
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Temporary solutions—such as compacted soil, stabilized pathways, or temporary mats—may be used where appropriate.
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Some areas of the venue may remain difficult to navigate for guests using mobility devices due to natural limitations.
We are committed to transparency about terrain conditions so guests can make informed decisions before attending.
Parking& Drop‑Off
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Accessible parking spaces are marked on the flattest available ground near the event entrance.
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A designated drop‑off zone is available for guests who need closer access.
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Routes from parking to the gate are selected for stability and navigability.
Restrooms
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ADA‑compliant portable restrooms are located throughout the Faire grounds.
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All accessible units are placed along designated accessible routes and clearly marked.
Seating & Viewing Areas
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Accessible seating is available at major performance areas and activity zones.
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Staff and volunteers can assist guests in locating these areas or navigating terrain as needed.
Service Animals
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Trained service animals are welcome in accordance with ADA guidelines.
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Because the venue is natural terrain, we recommend paw protection and hydration for animal comfort and safety.
Staff Training & Guest Support
Our staff and volunteers receive basic accessibility awareness training, including:
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How to direct guests to accessible routes
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How to assist with seating and navigation
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How to communicate respectfully and effectively with guests who request accommodations
We also designate an Accessibility Coordinator to support guests and address questions or needs during the event.
Reasonable Accommodations
We strive to support guests through accommodations such as:
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Reserved accessible seating at performances
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Assistance navigating uneven areas upon request
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Shuttle or golf cart transport from parking to the gate (when available)
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ASL interpretation for scheduled performances when feasible
Guests with specific needs are encouraged to contact us in advance so we can prepare appropriately.
What We Are Not Required to Do
In accordance with ADA guidelines for temporary outdoor events, the Faire is not required to:
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Pave or permanently alter natural terrain
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Make every area of the property fully accessible
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Provide medical‑grade transport across the grounds
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Eliminate natural features such as slopes, grass, or uneven surfaces
Our responsibility is to provide reasonable access to the core event experience while preserving the natural character of the venue.
Contact for Accessibility Questions
Guests with accessibility questions or accommodation requests are encouraged to reach out before attending.
Event Coordinator, Mesa County Fantasy Faire
312sweetriver@gmail.com
(970) 462‑7631