DUNGEONS & DAMES EAST 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your adventure.
October 8–11, 2026 • Rolling Ridge Retreat Center • North Andover, MA
THE BASICS
When and where is the retreat?
Dungeons & Dames East 2026 runs Thursday, October 8 through Sunday, October 11, 2026, a four-day, three-night retreat. It takes place at Rolling Ridge Retreat Center, a historic 1920s Georgian manor set on 38 acres along Lake Cochichewick in North Andover, Massachusetts, about 25 miles north of Boston.
Who is this retreat for?
Dungeons & Dames is a femme-only retreat created for women, trans, non-binary, and gender-fluid adventurers of all experience levels. Whether it’s your first time rolling dice or your fiftieth campaign, you belong here — there’s nothing to prove.
What’s the age requirement?
This realm is crafted for adventurers 21 and older. Exceptions may be granted for those aged 18–20 with prior approval — just email questmaster@dungeonsanddames.com to ask the guild.
How many people attend?
We keep it intimate. Each retreat is capped at 30 adventurers — large enough for a vibrant community, small enough that everyone feels seen (and easy to step into if you’re a little socially anxious).
Can I come on my own?
Absolutely — solo adventurers make up the majority of our guests. You’ll arrive as a stranger and leave with a party. No group required.
TICKETS & REGISTRATION
How much does it cost, and what’s included?
Tickets start at $1,900 and vary based on room type. Your ticket includes:
• Lodging for all three nights
• All meals throughout the retreat
• Drinks (wine, beer, mead, and mocktails)
• Crafts with our Artisans Guild
• A swag bag of goodies
Full pricing and add-ons are on the Buy Tickets & Add-Ons page.
How do I register, and is there a deadline?
Registration is handled on our site through the Buy Tickets & Add-Ons page. Registration closes 60 days before the event, and with only 30 spots, the realm tends to fill early — so don’t wait too long to claim your seat at the table.
What’s your refund and cancellation policy?
You can find the full details on our Refund & Returns Policy page.
GETTING THERE & STAYING THERE
What’s the nearest airport, and how do I get to the venue?
The nearest airport is Boston Logan International (BOS), about an hour from the venue. Most adventurers carpool with one another to get from the airport to Rolling Ridge — our community Discord is a great place to coordinate rides.
Is there parking?
Yes — parking is available and free. One heads-up: there’s a dirt road on the way in, so take it slow and easy as you arrive.
What are check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is at 3:00 PM on Thursday and check-out is at 10:00 AM on Sunday.
What are the rooms like?
We offer both shared and private rooms. Rooms have twin beds with no more than three occupants per room. Room type is tied to your ticket tier — see the tickets page for options.
What’s provided, and what should I pack?
Linens, towels, and pillows are provided. Toiletries are not, so be sure to pack your own shampoo, soap, toothbrush, and any other personal care items you’ll want for the weekend.
Is the venue accessible?
Please note that Rolling Ridge is a historic building with many, many stairs (a quick search for “Rolling Ridge Retreat Center North Andover” will give you a good feel for the space). We have one accessible room, and it has already sold. If you have mobility needs or questions about navigating the space, please reach out to questmaster@dungeonsanddames.com before booking so we can talk through it with you.
Is there WiFi and cell service?
Yes — both WiFi and cell service are good at the venue, so you can check in with work, kids, or familiars as needed.
FOOD & DRINK
How are dietary restrictions and allergies handled?
We’ve got you covered. We ask about allergies in your onboarding survey, and a dedicated dietary survey goes out 60 days before the event so the kitchen can plan around your needs.
What’s the deal with drinks and alcohol?
We’ll have a bartender on site for lunches and dinners serving wine, beer, mead, and mocktails, all included in your ticket. Please note that outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted.
THE GAMEPLAY
Do I need D&D experience to attend?
Not at all. This retreat is crafted for adventurers of all experience levels — whether you’re a seasoned Game Master or a curious newbie picking up dice for the first time. Our Game Masters are wonderful at welcoming new players and helping everyone feel comfortable taking up space at the table.
How does the weekend actually play out?
The story spans Thursday evening to Sunday morning, designed to feel like one complete campaign arc:
• Thursday night kicks off with a tavern dinner and story prologue — meet your fellow adventurers, sign up for your one-shots, and get pulled into the world.
• Friday & Saturday are game days: three epic 4-hour one-shots written just for this retreat (12 hours of immersive play), plus bonus story moments, roleplay, and connection.
• Sunday morning wraps things up with a cozy, heartfelt epilogue as we close out the tale.
What rules do we use, and what level are characters?
Characters should be Level 5, the story is homebrew, and rules are based on Dungeons & Dragons 5e (2014). You can choose from pre-generated characters, or join us on Discord to get help to build your own.
What do I need to bring vs. what’s provided?
We’ll set you up — and you’re welcome to bring your own flair:
• A set of dice comes in your swag bag, but bring your own collection too if you’ve got one.
• You’ll receive a class token to represent your character. Prefer a mini? Bring it along.
One important date: we collect character sheets 30 days before the event, so keep an eye out for that.
COMMUNITY, SAFETY & CONDUCT
How do you keep the tables safe and welcoming?
We prioritize emotional and physical safety at every table. Consent, boundaries, and comfort matter more than the game — no one should feel pressured, diminished, or ignored. You can read our full Community Values for the spirit we hold every adventurer (and Game Master) to.
What should I wear? Is there a costume requirement?
“Come as you are” is our favorite phrase — you never have to dress up. But if you’ve been looking for an excuse to get fancy, cosplay your character, or just play dress-up… this is it!
Will there be photography? Can I opt out?
Yes — our official photographer, Lady Ravenwood, will be capturing the magic of the weekend. If you’d prefer not to be photographed, you can opt out via the media release that’s sent out 60 days before the event. If you are longing for solo photos, we have a mini photo session add-on as well!
What’s your health policy?
If you’re feeling sick, please stay home and rest up. Masking is not required, but if you’d like to wear one, that’s completely welcome.