38 BEST OF DALLAS® 2026 dallasobserver.com DALLAS OBSERVER ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT | SPORTS & RECREATION | FOOD & DRINK | SHOPPING & SERVICES | READERS’ CHOICE | CONTENTS BEST PLACE TO START PRACTICING SANTERÍA Chango Botanica 1405 W. Davis St., Dallas instagram.com/chango_botanica In these trying times, everyone is searching for answers to life’s deepest questions, and the Afro-Caribbean religion, Santería, may hold one or two. For answers to questions about Santería and several other Af- ro-Latino spiritual practices, look to Dallas’ largest and oldest Santería supply shop. Don’t let the legion of life-size statues in the windows intimidate you from entering – they have yet to come to life. The staff is wel- coming to respectful patrons who come with an open, curious mind, and even if you’re not sure about getting deep in the weeds (or herbs) with Santería, at least you can leave with a couple of candles and some good incense. BEST SHOP FOR HEX MATERIALS Hearth Wisdom Store 2899 W. Pioneer Parkway, Pantego hearthwisdom.com Even in the internet age, there are still cer- tain wonders Etsy witches just can’t quite conjure. Those who prefer their sorcery shops in-person (with additional online op- tions) will find that the Hearth Wisdom Store is the local go-to for spell-supply odds and ends. Coffin curio, butterfly blood ink, Osiris statues — if your ritual calls for it, Hearth Wisdom likely already has it in stock. Green witches and experienced en- chanters alike can also explore the shop’s on-demand library and sanctuary. Each on- line portal offers opportunities to sift through a variety of free how-to content and paid structured learning courses, ranging from tarot basics to sex magic introductions. BEST PLACE TO BUY A LITERAL PIECE OF THE UNIVERSE Crystal Castle 14442 Midway Road, Farmers Branch crystalcastle.rocks Crystal Castle is a huge Farmers Branch warehouse that feels like walking into your own gem show. Check out all sorts of weird rocks, and trace most pieces back to the ex- act mine, mountain or cave they came from. Whether you’re after a museum-grade spec- imen or just some of that good energy, this is where Dallas goes to hold a chunk of deep time in its hands. BEST PLACE TO BUY SOME WEIRD SHIT The Frocksy Vintage Vogue 510 Main St., Garland instagram.com/theofficialfrocksy Practicing witches flock to this split shop on Garland’s Main Street square, run by a pair of friends who have different superpowers. On one side are jewelry and thrifted clothes, se- lected for their whimsy, allure and comfort. Trend is low on the list of considerations. On the other side of the store are knick-knacks of all varieties, from adorable glassware to that set of crystals you need to ward off evil spirits. Many varieties of incense are for sale, and more than a few varieties of sage. Don’t worry, the owners are probably good witches. Be nice to them just in case. BEST PLACE TO LEARN A MEDIEVAL CRAFT Dallas Makerspace 1825 Monetary Lane, Carrollton dallasmakerspace.org Ever find yourself longing for simpler times, like when steel was forged by hand, and no- ble craftsmanship was a way of life? If so, you belong at Dallas Makerspace, where aimless analog hobbyists with an affinity for swords and armor can master real Old World skills. While your friends waste pre- cious daylight hours doomscrolling, you can work toward becoming the local village arti- san by learning how to hammer steel, stitch hide and weave tapestry thread. Rather than Provided by The Frocksy Vintage Vogue The Frocksy Vintage Vogue