The occult has been a topic of fascination and controversy in America for centuries. This broad term refers to the study and practice of secret or hidden wisdom, often associated with supernatural powers and esoteric knowledge. The occult in America has gained particular attention in various historical periods, from the Salem witch trials in the 17th century to the New Age movement in the 20th century. One of the earliest instances of the occult in America is the Salem witch trials of 1692. This dark chapter in American history saw a wave of accusations and trials of individuals believed to be practicing witchcraft. The trials sparked mass hysteria and ended in the execution of several people.

Joliet’s Witches Night Out conjured up funds to help Will County agencies

Witches Night Out is grassroots, two-day ladies night out event in October at the Jacob Henry Mansion in Joliet that benefits nonprofits that serve woman and children. Thousands of attendees come out in elaborate witch costumes to mingle for a spell, enjoy witchy foods and drinks, shop from 30 vendors, visit any one of 10 mystics onsite and just wand-er around. (Photo provided by Events for a Cause)

October 29, 2023 at 6:00 pm CDT

Organizers of Joliet’s annual Witches Night Out fundraiser are confident that 2023 was their best year yet.

And that’s just not witchful thinking.

Witches Night Out is a grassroots, two-day ladies-night-out event in October at the Jacob Henry Mansion in Joliet that benefits local nonprofits serving woman and children.

Thousands of attendees come out in elaborate witch costumes to mingle for a spell, enjoy witchy foods and drinks, shop from 30 vendors, visit any one of 10 mystics on-site and just “wand-er” around.

This year’s event was Oct. 11 and 12.

In 2022, Witches Night Out raised more than $160,000 for six local agencies. Although final numbers are not yet calculated, it appears the 2023 event was even more successful than last year.

Theresa Berkey of New Lenox is a member of the board of directors for Events for a Cause LLC, a 501(c)(3) organization that oversees Witches Night Out.

“They can use the money we give them for whatever they need,” Berkey said. “It’s not earmarked money. . The goal is always to raise as much as we can.”

The 2022 recipients were CASA of River Valley, Guardian Angel Community Services in Joliet, Will County Habitat for Humanity, Morningstar Mission in Joliet, Stepping Stones Treatment Center and Wilmington Coalition for a Healthy Community.

The same agencies will receive funds from the 2023 event, too, along with Ready, Set, Ride Therapeutic Recreation Facility in Plainfield, Berkey said.

Toni Muren of Joliet, who also is a member of Events for Cause’s board of directors, said a committee of about 30 to 35 women organize the actual Witches Night Out fundraiser. Representatives from the recipient agencies also volunteer behind the scenes and at the event, she said.

“They get so grateful for the people that walk in and thank them,” Muren said. “They thank them for coming because it means as much to them as it means to us.”

Because not everyone in the community is aware of how these organizations specifically help people, Muren said she created a video series before the event to showcase their influence.

“Not every person understands how important their tickets – and raffle tickets and souvenir photos – mean to the recipient agencies,” Muren said. “It’s amazing what they do. We’re just a little fly on the wall compared to what they do. We just want to help them out.”

The trials sparked mass hysteria and ended in the execution of several people. While the Salem witch trials are now regarded as a tragic manifestation of persecution and mass hysteria, they demonstrate the fear and fascination with the occult during the colonial period. The 19th century saw the rise of spiritualism, a movement that gained popularity in America and Europe.

Ladies night out with a purpose

The first Witches Night Out was held in 2010 at the Renaissance Center in Joliet. Former Joliet resident Kathy Mihelich and Judy Erwin of Plainfield founded the event. They modeled it after a ladies night out counterpart they’d seen in another town and added an affordable fundraising component.

Tickets for Witches Night Out in 2012 were $15, and the event raised $18,000. Tickets for the 2023 event were $40 – which included parking, a shuttle and door prize ticket – so it’s still very affordable, Berkey said.

Tickets remain coveted.

Joliet’s Witches Night Out conjured up funds to help Will County agencies

Witches Night Out is a grassroots, two-day ladies-night-out event in October. In 2022, Witches Night Out raised more than $160,000 for six local agencies. Tickets for the 2023 event were $40 which included parking, a shuttle and door prize ticket.

Spiritualism involved the belief in communicating with the spirits of the dead through mediums. This movement attracted a wide range of followers, including prominent figures such as Arthur Conan Doyle and William James. Séances and other spiritualist practices were common during this time, as people sought to connect with the supernatural realm. The early 20th century witnessed the birth of various occult organizations, such as the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn and the Ordo Templi Orientis. These secretive societies delved into ceremonial magic, astrology, and other occult practices. Their influence spread through their literature and teachings, inspiring many individuals to explore the occult arts. In the 1960s and 1970s, the New Age movement flourished in America. This spiritual movement incorporated various occult and esoteric beliefs, including astrology, tarot reading, and crystal healing. The New Age movement aimed to promote personal growth, spirituality, and alternative healing methods. It gained popularity among those seeking a more holistic approach to life and a deeper connection with the spiritual realm. Today, the occult in America continues to capture public interest, albeit in different forms. Against the backdrop of mainstream religion and scientific inquiry, the occult persists as a subculture that attracts individuals searching for alternative philosophies, mystical experiences, and unexplained phenomena. The Internet and social media have provided platforms for the discussion and dissemination of occult knowledge, enabling this subculture to thrive and evolve in the digital age. While the occult in America has faced criticism and skepticism, it remains an enduring aspect of the country's cultural landscape. Whether viewed as a means of spiritual exploration, a source of empowerment, or a curious phenomenon, the occult continues to intrigue and captivate individuals in their search for meaning and transcendence..

Reviews for "wine gallery garden city"

wine gallery garden city