The Davis clothing store Bohème is hosting “Bohème Bewitched,” an enchanted experience that opens today and continues Wednesdays through Sundays until Oct. 31. It’s at 300 E St., in the former Union Bank building.
Though it’s timed to coincide with Halloween, it’s spooky, not scary, Bohème owner Yelena Ivashchenko said. Rooms include Whimsy Woods, Enchanted Grove, Zombie Infected Forest, Fairy & Frog Bog, Mermaid Lagoon, Witches’ Cottage and Wispy Spirit Woods.
“Explore lands, go on quests, make potions and see performances,” its social media posts say.
Ivashchenko loves Halloween but not gore. “It’s not haunted. It’s enchanted. It’s magical,” Ivashchenko said. “This is something that’s really going to be fun for the community.”
Julia Holton, a recent UC Davis design graduate, is involved with the design. Her father Michael Holton is a retired Disney imagineer, who volunteered his skills to help with some special effects.
One of the features of Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion is the illusion that ghosts are floating toward you. Michael Holton uses glass and mirrors to create a similar effect with floating fairies here.
Hours are 3 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays, and 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. There’s also evening performances from 7 to 9:30 p.m. on Oct. 23, 24 and 30. Admission is $4.
There will also be a retail section with a selection of Halloween items. The $4 entry fee will be credited to any purchase of $8 or above.
Ivashchenko and her partner Brett Maresca said their goal is to break even. They are funding it without outside support. They welcome nonprofits to collaborate or set up booths outside the event. Contact her at Bohème.
