Add one more beloved event that’s canceled onto the fast-growing list. Comicpalooza has just announced it will be canceling its 2020 show that was slated to take place in late May.
The event scheduled for Memorial Day weekend was expected to have drawn more than 50,000 attendants and over 600 merchants.
The widely loved pop-culture festival is known to draw people from all over the country to Houston. It’s the ultimate celebrations of all things geek with cosplay contests, celebrity meet and greets, and fun activities for the whole family. This will be the first-ever shut down of the annual event, Comicpalooza, since its start in 2008.
Comicpalooza organizers had previously spoken about possibly postponing the festival to a later date but were sadly unable to work things out.
“We have looked at venue availability on later dates, considered alternative locations, and discussed a modified show for 2020, but the situation is too unpredictable,” reads a statement on the event’s website. “Although we are hopeful the social distancing measures being taken locally, and throughout the world, will mitigate the threat of COVID-19 well before our original times at the end of May, uncertainty still persists and the health and safety of our community is of the utmost importance.”
President of Comicpalooza and Senior Vice President of Houston First Corporation Michael Heckman stated, “Canceling was a difficult decision made in the face of extraordinary circumstances, but we’ve exhausted every feasible option, and given the uncertainties, this is the best path forward. We are, however, turning our efforts towards next year’s Comicpalooza and creating a superior fan experience.”
Refunds to be Issued Soon
All ticket holders who’ve registered for Comicpalooza will receive a full refund. Nothing is required on ticket holders’ part because the refund will be automatic.
“If you’ve made a purchase, no immediate action is required by you. In the next few days you should receive a confirmation email from Growtix indicating that your refund has been processed. It will take another 7-10 business days for you to receive the money in your accounts. We understand that banks are backlogged and this could take longer than usual, so please be patient,” said the statement on the website.
For more details on Comicpalooza and details about the refund process you can visit their website at Comicpalooza.com.
Supporting Vendors During Trying Times
Some good news, Comicpalooza’s management team is currently working on ways to highlight the work done by artists and dealers that sell merchandise at the event.
Tom Segesta, Chairman of the Board, Greater Houston Conventions and Visitor’s Bureau also spoke about the matter. He stated, “Not only does this decision impact the fans, it also affects the vendors who depend on Comicpalooza, and the hospitality community who serve the high volume of visitors attending from around the country.”
Event organizers are working on setting up a merchant page within the next week where fans will be able to support vendors and buy their goods online.
He also added that “The health and safety of everyone involved in this wonderful event is our highest priority. We are so thankful to all of the event partners and loyal fans and look forward to making next year’s convention even bigger and better.”
Looking Ahead to 2021
While Comicpalooza won’t be taking place this year, the event hosts are already turning their attention to creating a bigger and better experience next year when the show returns. 2021 Comicpalooza is slated to take place May 21-23.
For more information and the latest updates, visit Comicpalooza.com.
