Tavern at the Crossroads Presents - The Lambent Longship

Tavern at the Crossroads is a seasonal gathering that brings to life the spirit of iconic inns from fantasy literature—like The Prancing Pony, The Green Dragon, and The Eolian. These legendary taverns are more than mere backdrops; they’re places of comfort, connection, and new beginnings. We aim to capture that same feeling right here in Hayward, CA.

Held outdoors beneath the trees in a private backyard transformed into a rustic medieval tavern, each event welcomes ~20 guests to share a hearty meal, enjoy homebrewed ale and mead, play games, and unwind in good company. It’s a cozy, immersive escape from the demands of modern life—no phones, no pretense—just good food, drink, and conversation in a setting that feels like stepping into another world.

Whether you’re a returning friend or a curious newcomer, the Tavern offers a place to rest, laugh, and connect. Some come in costume; others as they are. All are welcome.

Since 2019, we’ve hosted over 20 events and welcomed more than 250 unique guests. Donations are appreciated to keep the hearth warm and the experience alive.

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Hail, voyagers of the boundless blue!

Mark your calendars! Ticket sales start at 12 pm April 12th.

The Lambent Longship (presented by Tavern at the Crossroads) unfurls its sails and beckons thee to a gathering where the echoes of longhouses and the crash of distant waves entwine. Step aboard our seafaring haven, where the shimmers like gold upon the tide, and where the air is thick with salt, song, and the laughter of daring souls.

There is no purchase necessary to attend; however, to help keep our longship afloat, we ask each guest for a minimum donation of $25. Should our coffers be well-filled, further bounties shall be revealed.

Upon thy arrival, sign the log and receive a pouch of golden coins with which to partake in the bounties of our voyage—feasts and revelry fit for a Jarl’s hall. But be warned, traveler, for the open sea is as treacherous as it is thrilling.

When thou dost embark, thou shalt find:
⚔️ A contest of honor and skill, open to all who dare to prove their worth. The victor shall be crowned Jarl of the Longship, ruling in glory—for a time.
🍗 A feast worthy of Valhalla, brimming with hearty fare to fill thy belly and steel thy spirit.

🍻 Flagons of our finest ales, crafted with hearty spirit and fit for warriors on the lambent tide.

🎶 Songs and sagas sung beneath our halls, where the bold may raise their voices in defiance of the dark.
🏴‍☠️ Merchants of the open sea, offering rare treasures and handwrought wares for coin of the realm (Zelle, Venmo, or cash only—our tavern tokens hold no sway beyond our shores).
🌊 The call of the unknown, for those daring enough to seek the mysteries that drift upon the tide.

The Lambent Longship shall weigh anchor on May 31, June 7, and June 21, each voyage beginning at 4 PM. As the sun rides high and the wind fills our sails, we shall drink, feast, and set forth upon the currents of fate.

Come, brave and bold shield-bearers—step aboard, for the longship shall not wait, and the sea ever hungers for new tales to tell.

Info: Guests arrive at the gate and sign the Great Tome. A pouch of coins will be provided for use within the tavern.

Info: Tankards are filled, and the contest begins in earnest. Taverners will have selection of two ales on tap at the bar and be offered a plate of fresh baked bread, cheeses, and other appetizers. Taverners can play a variety of games and converse with other travelers from the road. If you (optionally) explore our board on site, then you may find some ways to add an extra layer to your experience.

Info: A hearty meal will be provided to steel your constitution as the conquest continues!

Info: Drink and companionship abound as the final challenge is met and the Jarl is crowned. Enjoy the rest of the event with the stories and companionship of your fellow taverners. Drinks will be served until closing, and many other incentives can be unlocked (via donations).

Also check out other Nonprofit events in Hayward, Arts events in Hayward, Literary Art events in Hayward.