CHELSEA — “It was a hobbit-hole, and that means comfort,” J.R.R. Tolkien wrote those words nearly a century ago, on the other side of the world, and they inspire more today than they’ve ever have. The magic and imagination of this British author and the world he built have once again been brought to life in the fourth annual Hobbits and Elves, An Immersive Fantasy Retreat in Chelsea. With another successful event last weekend, Windy Goat Acres has solidified its place as a Tama County institution, bringing in hundreds of humans and hairy footed halflings from around the state and farther, year after year.

The retreat had perfect weather this year as the sun sat high in the sky like the eye of Sauron. Hordes of elves, hobbits, and the occasional wizard made the journey to the local Middle Earth outpost. Windy Goat Acres Owner Jessica Kettler spoke about the wondrous success of the retreat.

“Last year the theme was based on the orcs, and this year it was a dragon in the mine. The dwarves were in charge of getting all the treasure back to uphold the pact between the peoples and the dragon’s protection. It was so fun! I think it was the best year yet. It was perfect weather on Saturday, so people really showed up,” she said. “We had a few new vendors, another new stage act, some new performers like Arwen, a new mentalist wizard, a contact juggler, and a large stilted dragon, some new quests, and some fun music.”

The Hobbit Pub, at times, had a line that nearly stretched back to the dwarven mines as people enjoyed refreshments and good times. Whether dressed up with pointy ears or riding a dragon, those in attendance had a lot to see and do at this retreat, as it seems to get bigger and more popular every year.

If you missed this year’s Hobbits and Elves retreat, don’t despair; The Faery Experience will be held on Aug. 22-23. There are loads of other activities, retreats, and concerts happening out at Windy Goat Acres all the time, so maybe take a quest out there.