Fantasy Camp New Mexico 2019

The enchanting landscapes of New Mexico provided the perfect backdrop for the 2019 Fantasy Camp, a week-long event that transformed the picturesque town of Taos into a sporting utopia. From June 15th to June 20th, participants got to live out their sporting dreams with this year's theme revolving around the magical world of Harry Potter, a fitting nod to the state's mystical allure.

a group of people sitting around a fire pit in the middle of a forest at night

Guess who's coming to this year's Fantasy Camp? None other than the magical trio themselves - Harry, Ron, and Hermione! Well, not exactly, but the closest thing you can get - our skilled coaches for this year's camps. Accompanied by a star-studded cast of fellow sports enthusiasts and witches and wizards, the campers were treated to an unforgettable experience that blended spellbinding fun with state-of-the-art training.

Magical On-Field Experiences

Did you know that Quidditch isn't just a sport in the Harry Potter books? It's a real, fast-paced, and competitive game enjoyed worldwide. And at Fantasy Camp 2019 New Mexico, we brought it to life on the field. Campers joined houses led by their coaches and immersed themselves in strategic plays and intense matches.

a large group of tents with mountains in the background

But Quidditch wasn't the only magical game played. Muggle sports like soccer and basketball had their moments too, with participants fine-tuning their skills under the guidance of expert coaches. The gridiron was also alive with the roar of campers learning the ins and outs of American football.

Quidditch: Beyond the Brooms

a group of tents sitting in the middle of a forest with snow covered mountains behind them

Quidditch at Fantasy Camp 2019 New Mexico was no child's play. Campers learned the intricacies of the game from certified IQA (International Quidditch Association) coaches. From broomstick handling to advanced flight strategies, every aspect of the game was scrutinized and improved.

And yes, we had our house cup tournament too! It was an intense battle of strategy, speed, and sorcery. In the end, Gryffindor emerged victorious, but every house proved that house pride runs deep.

Muggle Sports Beyond the Magic

Mayan Deer Dance, Hopi Night Dance, Yaqui Deer Dance, Traditional Sun Dance, Sunrise Dance Ceremony, Navajo Fire Dance, Concheros Dance, Nativity, Mood Board

Sports like soccer, basketball, and football might seem mundane in a magical setting, but not at Fantasy Camp 2019 New Mexico. Our professional coaches transformed these games into extraordinary learning experiences, breaking down advanced techniques and strategies into digestible lessons.

Campers got to practice their newfound skills in friendly matches too, with the emphasis on fun and camaraderie. It was a magic-free zone, but the joy and sense of accomplishment were the same as in any magical game.

Off-Field Enchantments

there is a campfire in the middle of a field with many tents and mountains

Fantasy Camp 2019 New Mexico was about more than just physical activity. We ensured our campers had a full magical experience, from themed meals to spellcasting lessons. Each day was filled with enchanting surprises, making it a week they'll never forget.

Our daily themed dances were a fan favorite, with the Yule Ball taking the cake. And the Diagon Alley-style market provided campers with the opportunity to buy official Fantasy Camp merchandise and local Taos treats.

an image of a tent set up in the woods at night with people around it

a group of people standing around a tent in the middle of a field with tents

Abiquiu & Ghost Ranch - New Mexico - Part 6 - 2019 – The Illuminating Lens

there is a campfire in the field next to some tents

a room filled with lots of furniture and hanging lights in the middle of a forest

a group of tents sitting next to each other in the middle of a field at night

a campfire in the middle of a field at night

an artistic painting of people camping in the wilderness at night with tents and campfires

Magical Meals and Treats

From Leaky Cauldron-style breakfasts to Hagrid's feasts, mealtimes were a delightful mix of sustenance and sorcery. We even had the Sorting Hatorealizing the campers' houses over place cards. Nokulak was served, of course, but so was New Mexican cuisine, ensuring a taste of local flavor.

The Great Hall banquet was the piece de resistance. Complete with floating candles and enchanted silverware, campers enjoyed a gourmet meal while being entertained by magical performances. And, of course, the dessert made of fog was a particular highlight.

Spellbinding Workshops

Cast your spells right, and you could make the Bludger fly off the pitch! That's what campers learned in our magical workshops, led by professionals versed in both magic and the sports.

Campers practiced their magic in designated training areas, with ruinous wrecks and other enchanted objects providing challenging scenarios. Some even managed to score a Niffler or two!

As the sun set on the final day of Fantasy Camp 2019 New Mexico, we looked out on a field full of exhausted but exhilarated campers. The memory of their magical week willStay with them forever. Next year promises to be even more spellbinding, as we continue to bring the magical world of Harry Potter to life in the enchanting landscapes of New Mexico. Until then, keep your wands ready and your brooms polished - who knows when you might need to fly?