Due to a rise in events, Fantastigal cannot verify all details on The Fantasy Calendar.
It is recommended to confirm event specifics directly with the organizer and consider the following before buying tickets.
These considerations will help support an informed ticket purchases and avoid scams.
EXPECTATIONS
What are your expectations for the event—what do I want out of this experience?
Understanding what you want from the event helps manage your expectations.
If you have unrealistic expectations, you might end up disappointed if the event doesn’t meet them.
By being aware of your expectations, you can better align those expectations with the reality of what the event is offering as well as evaluate whether the ticket price aligns with what you anticipate from the event.
BUDGET
What is your budget? After tickets, transportation, and costumes, is the event something you are able and/or comfortable expensing?
Understanding your budget constraints helps to ensure that you don’t overspend or exceed your financial limits, preventing potential financial strain.
Also with this awareness, you can make informed decisions about which events are feasible and prioritize those that offer the most value within your budget.
Keep in mind additional expenses such as costumes, transportation, food, and accommodations.
ASSESSING THE EVENT
It is essential to research the event before buying tickets.
Researching the event supports in managing expectations, planning effectively, and preparing for any special requirements or restrictions.
More importantly, assessing the event can help you gauge the legitimacy and reputation of the event and identify any potential scams.
- RESEARCH THE EVENT
What is the event offering?
To plan effectively, research and confirming logistics and details like—
Date, Time, and Location: The specific date, start time, and location/venue where the event will take place.
Venue: Venue amenities and facilities as well as accessibility, transportation options, parking availability, ect.
Ticketing: Ticket availability, tiers, payments plans, policies, ect.
Decorations: Description of the event’s decorative elements, themes, or visual aesthetics.
Hospitality: Information about food and beverage options available at the event, including catering services, concessions, or onsite dining options.
Entertainment: Check the lineup of special guests, speakers, performers, and celebrity appearances scheduled for the event.
Activities: Consider the networking and community-building opportunities offered by the event, such as fan meetups, cosplay contests, gaming tournaments, or themed social activities.
Age Limits: Any restrictions on the age of attendees, such as age requirements for admission or specific age-restricted areas or activities within the event.
Dress Code: Guidelines or recommendations regarding attire for attendees, including formal attire, themed costumes or cosplay, props, weaponry, wings, ect.
Accommodation Options for Out-of-Town Attendees: Recommendations or arrangements for accommodations such as hotels, motels, or other lodging options if you are traveling from out of town.
- VERIFY THE DETAILS
Double-check the event details to ensure they match the information provided by the event producer.
One can verify event details by consulting official sources such as the event’s website or social media pages for accurate information. Additionally, consulting reviews, testimonials, or feedback from previous attendees can provide insights into the event’s quality and organization.
Be wary of scammers trying to sell tickets to fake or non-existent events.
- EVENT ADVERTISING & CREDIBILITY
Credibility of the Event
Assess the credibility of the source or organization behind the marketing content. Look for signs of professionalism, transparency, and accountability. Be wary of unfamiliar or obscure brands with limited or dubious online presence—including fake or copycat social accounts with bot followings.
Is the event producer using only AI-generated content to advertise for their event?
Recognize that AI-generated content may not always be accurate or reliable as well as severely skew expectations for the event. Case and point—”The Willy’s Chocolate Experience” in Glasglow, Scotland produced by Billy Coull: https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-68431728
Are the marketing claims for the event unrealistic?
Be skeptical of marketing claims that seem too good to be true or overly exaggerated. Evaluate whether the promises made by the advertising are realistic and backed by evidence.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off or if the event producer’s behavior raises red flags, trust your instincts and consider walking away from the transaction. It’s better to be cautious than to risk falling victim to a scam. Case and point—the infamous Fyre Festival: https://www.bbc.com/news/newsbeat-46904445
Check for Red Flags
Be cautious of event producers who offer vague or incomplete information, or refuse to provide details about the event or event tickets. These can be signs of a scam.
- EVENT & PRODUCER HISTORY
Has event producer previously hosted events or is this their first event?
Experience may factor that into your decision regarding attending the event and ticketing.
Look for event producers with a successful track record of organizing events. If they have a history of producing well-received events, it suggests they have the necessary experience, skills, and resources to execute a similar event effectively.
For first-time event producers, there is a higher perceived risk regarding the quality of the event and competency of the organizer.
What are the reviews for previous events?
Research the event’s reputation and read reviews from previous attendees to gauge the quality of the experience. Look for feedback on organization, entertainment value, guest interactions, and overall satisfaction.
Is there footage or pictures from previous events not posted by the event company or their affiliates?
Look for independent reviews, testimonials, or user experiences from customers who have attended previous events.
Are these reviews biased or inflated?
Pay attention to both positive and negative feedback to gain a balanced perspective.
- EVENT POLICIES
What are the event policies and guidelines?
Familiarize yourself with the event’s policies and guidelines, including rules on cosplay, props, photography, autographs, and behavior. Ensure that you understand and agree to abide by these rules.
What is the refund policy for tickets?
Familiarize yourself with the event’s refund and cancellation policies, as well as those of the seller or purchasing platform.
What happens if the event is postponed, canceled, or if you are unable to attend?
Make sure you understand your options in case the event is postponed, canceled, or if you are unable to attend.
What are the safety and security measures for the event?
Inquire about the event’s safety and security measures, including crowd control, emergency procedures, and COVID-19 protocols. Confirm that the organizers prioritize attendee safety and well-being.
- EVENT COMMUNICATION
Always communicated directly with the event producer or team regarding the questions regarding the event.
How does the event producer communicate about the event? Are questions answered in a reasonable and professional manner?
Look to see if the event and event details are clearly communicated. Also, when communicating with the event producer or team, see if you questions are answered in a reasonable and professional manner.
Problem-Solving Abilities
Keep an eye out for how the event producer or team handles any unexpected challenges or issues that arise during the event. A skilled event producer will be proactive in addressing problems and finding solutions quickly, efficiently, and professionally.
Flexibility and Adaptability
Events can sometimes encounter unforeseen circumstances, such as changes in the schedule or unexpected logistical issues. Assess how well the event producer has adapted and communicated regarding changes in the past.
- COMPARE PRICES & OFFERS
Compare prices and ticket availability from multiple sources before making a purchase. If the event’s prices significantly differs from others, investigate further and assess if the event aligns with your budget and expectations.
PERSONAL PREFERENCES AND COMFORT
After assessing the event, take into account your personal preferences, expectations, budget, comfort level, ect.
Are you able to prepare accordingly with appropriate attire, accessories, snacks, water, and supplies for the duration of the event?
Make sure to reach out the event planner in a timely manner regarding any accessibility needs, food allergies, and any special accommodations you may require.
PURCHASING TICKETS
Read the Fine Print
Carefully read through all terms and conditions, including any disclaimers or policies related to ticket sales, refunds, and reselling. Make sure you understand the terms before completing the transaction.
Purchase from Official Sources
Whenever possible, buy tickets directly from the official website of the event, authorized ticketing agents, or trusted vendors recommended by the event organizers. Use secure payment methods such as credit cards or reputable online payment services.
Avoid paying with cash, wire transfers, or prepaid cards, as these offer less protection against fraud.
STAY UP-TO-DATE
Keep yourself informed about common ticket scams, advertising and social deception, and fraud tactics by staying updated on validated social accounts, news articles, consumer alerts, and official warnings from authorities.
✨A special shout out to @HighFantasyEvents who initially raised this topic in this instagram post ✨
AI Disclaimer: Due to the conventional nature of this information, these considerations were outlined with the support of ChatGPT with prompting, assembly, and editing by Fantastigal.
