ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — In response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, organizers of 20th anniversary Fetish Con, originally set for August 12-15 in Florida, have postponed the trade show and all related events to 2021.
"Our main concern has been and always will be the health and safety of all of our attendees, and due to the current circumstances, this is something that unfortunately no one can guarantee in 2020," the organizers announced in a statement.
A Fetish Con rep explained that All-Access passes, vendor booths and sponsorship agreements will be honored for the 2021 show; All-Access pass-holders and vendors will also receive a 25% discount for the 2022 trade show.
"Those not wishing to transfer their passes, booths and sponsorship agreements to the 2021 show may request a full refund, which will be processed pursuant to the stated trade show terms and conditions," said the rep. "Those choosing this option will not receive a 25% discount for the 2022 trade show."
"For those who have already purchased rooms at the host hotel, the Hilton St. Petersburg Bayfront Hotel, reservations will be automatically cancelled," the rep said. "Fetish Con and the host hotel are not responsible for re-booking or refunds on lodging arrangements made separate from the host hotel, nor other travel arrangements."
Event Promoter Genesis Lynn has announced plans for an online community event in August to encourage a sense of camaraderie.
"Like everyone in the country right now, we are concerned for the health and safety of ourselves, our families and our friends," said Lynn. "For us, that extends even further, to include everyone who attends Fetish Con from the talent and industry members: our exhibitors, general attendees, our staff and the staff at the host hotel. Everyone’s well-being was taken into consideration when making the final decision to cancel our 2020 trade show."
"For this year, we are working on hosting a virtual event in August 2020, to bring the Fetish Con community together. Even if our online event is only for one night, we invite everyone to attend," continued Lynn. "We have appreciated the support of the fetish and adult community for the past twenty years. We thank you, our community, for your understanding through these trying times, as we make decisions we never thought we’d have to make. We hope everyone remains safe and healthy, while we look forward to being able to celebrate our 20th anniversary with everyone next year."
For additional details, and the latest updates, visit Fetish Con online and on Twitter.