Ayria: Stories, Songs & Goth Aerobics
Join Jennifer Parkin of Ayria for a special, multifaceted session marking her first-ever solo panel! This event marks the beginning of a new era for Ayria, offering fans an intimate look behind the curtain of her upcoming full-length release.
Jennifer will guide you through her songwriting process, sharing the personal life events that sparked the inspiration for the diverse styles found on the new album. The session features an exclusive Listening Party, where attendees will hear select tracks from the new EP/album, followed by live “song dissections” where Jennifer breaks down the lyrics and meanings.Following a moderated Q&A covering everything from the new release to classic Ayria tracks and life in general, the panel concludes with a high-energy twist: Goth Aerobics! Join Jennifer for some punching and light stretching to get you fired up for the next bands (participation is optional—feel free to just bop in your chair!).
Let’s Get Dark: Social Gathering Game
Let’s Get Dark is the ultimate goth-themed conversation game that delves into the spooky, mysterious, and poetic depths of your soul. Whether you’re new to the community or a seasoned bat, this game is your gateway to connection. Hosted by Luke Vinland and Joe Melluzzo.
Rainbows in The Dark LGBTQ+ Panel
In this hour You will be able to connect with friends and chosen family here. Here fun stories and accolades of past and present LGBTQ+ history within our scene and culture. There is always a possibility that sensitive topics might be discussed, please be kind & take care of yourself first.
Featuring your hosts:
Claus/ Leaetherstrip, Laya/ DJ Fix/ Amphetamean, James/ Male Tears, Landy / Male Tears.
Moderated by – Bella / DJ Villainess
Stay until the end for the LGBTQ+ meetup! Let’s hang out and get to know our fellow rainbow bats!
Industrial Dance Class
Our Industrial Dance Class at Dark Force Fest will be a high-energy, fun, and intense session where you’ll learn the rhythmic, stomping moves of industrial dance. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned dancer, this is your chance to get a great workout, express yourself, and immerse in the music.
Come ready to sweat, have fun, and dance like a machine!
Hosted by Amy with tunes by DJ Mighty Mike Saga
Void Signal LIVE
Pirate Radio from Beyond the Stars comes to Dark Force Fest! Come meet festival headliners and play Team Trivia! Brainstorm your answers and compete for PRIZES! Host Brian Prime and the Void Gang will be on hand to share some laughs and make some memories. How will your team fare? Come find out!
Distortion Productions – Independent Record Labels Panel
Join Distortion Productions founder, Jim Semonik and guests as they discuss the inner workings of an independent record label.
Goth Yoga by Death Comes Lifting
Death Comes Lifting is bringing their signature “Yoga From The Crypt” practice to Dark Force Fest with a beginner-friendly class set to a playlist of gothic hits that’ll shake off your rigor mortis and give you the power to rock & roll all weekend long
Sober In The Scene Panel / Meetup
Join longtime DJs and scene organizers Johnny Panic, DJ Vilianess (Bella), and Tiny Terror for a panel on navigating the goth and industrial scene without alcohol or drugs. Our panelists will share their personal journeys, discuss what it’s like to get and stay sober in an alcohol-driven culture, and answer questions from attendees curious about sobriety, harm reduction, or making different choices in nightlife. This conversation is for anyone interested in recovery, moderation, or simply exploring how to thrive creatively in the scene while avoiding or reducing substance use.
Immediately following the panel, stick around for a meet-and-greet with free coffee from Coffee with the Dead, a community space offering a calm spot to sober up or take a break, complete with their signature Ghost Stories coffee. This is a chance to connect with supportive people, ask questions, and discover safe, trained allies to look out for you at shows and events.