Occult and oddities store looks for community support amid eviction

Since the WitchLab Lounge’s opening a year and a half ago, it has become a gathering space for community members with regular karaoke nights, workshops, art shows, and other events. The Lounge neighbors the WitchLab, an “occult, oddities, and antique store” that was established in 2011.

The WitchLab and WitchLab Lounge located at 1187 and 1185 W Broad are now facing eviction, resulting in the loss of their buildings. The WitchLab shared the news via an email blast to their patrons, and on Instagram, writing that “The landlord has stated that they plan to pursue an eviction due to a performance at the Lounge in early August, which they deemed a breach of our lease due to a fire element.”

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While the WitchLab and WitchLab Lounge face losing their home, they have turned to the community to help them rally around a fresh start and a new location. Due to the unexpected timing and quick notice, the WitchLab has put out a “call for help” asking the community for donations during this time. The shop and lounge have started a GoFundMe, and also a spreadsheet to add community members who want to receive detailed communications and stay in-the-know. Per their Instagram accounts, the businesses are asking the community to donate, share, and support them during this time however they can.

For more information, follow the store and lounge on Instagram at @witchlab and @witchlablounge.

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