Rules, Terms, Conditions, & Policies
Rules, Terms, Conditions, & Policies
Agreement
By purchasing a ticket through the Organizer’s website or at the convention or attending an Organizer’s Event, Purchasers and Attendees agree to all of the terms and conditions listed below.
Terms
“Organizer” is HMConventions LLC, a Limited Liability Corporation that runs a convention (“Event”) in Orlando, Florida.
“Purchaser” is a person that is looking to purchase Credentials to an Event run by the Organizer.
“Credentials” are physical items that represent an Attendee’s access to an Event run by the Organizer.
“Venue” is the physical location of the Event run by the Organizer.
“Attendee” is a person that attends an Event run by the Organizer.
“Event” is an occurrence of one of the Organizer’s happenings that occurs at the specified Venue.
Availability
While the Organizer strives to keep all Attendees apprised of changes, the Organizer does not make any guarantees on the availability of guests, activities, accomodations, transportation, schedule, or opening hours. The Organizer also does not make any guarantees on the availability of purchasing Credentials for any Event; Events can sell out, and the Organizer does not guarantee that a Purchaser will be able to purchase Credentials once an event is sold out.
Attendance Requirements
Each Attendee shall:
Observe the rules, policies, and procedures of the Event
Behave in respectful manner towards all that attend the Event
Attendees must display Credentials at all times while attending an Organizer’s Event. Attendees that do not display proper Credentials while attending the event will be removed from the Event.
The Organizer reserves the right to refuse entry to any Attendee, remove any Attendee from the Event, and/or block them from an Online Event Platform, without liability, if, in the Organizer’s sole discretion, it determines that any of the following:
The Attendee does not display/have proper Credentials to attend the Event.
The Attendee violates a rule or policy that is laid out in the Rules and Regulations.
The Attendee commits an illegal act
The Attendee disrupts/threatens to disrupt the Event or harasses/injures an Attendee at the Event
The Attendee damages property of the Venue, Organizer, or another Attendee
The Attendee threatens the safety (including online) of Attendees, Contractors, or Employees of the Event or Venue
In such circumstances the Attendee is not entitled to a refund or ticket forwarding.
Fees
Payment in full of any applicable fees for the Event is due upon registration. If such payment is insufficient or declined for any reason, the Organizer will refuse issuance of any Credentials and refuse entry to the Event. If Fees are charged back to the Organizer, Credentials will be canceled and will not be issued.
Delivery of Credentials
Shipping of Credentials will occur sometime in the month prior to the Event. Organizer does not make any guarantees on when shipping will begin or when Credentials will arrive at the Purchaser’s address.
The Organizer strives to ship out all Credentials purchased with Ship Your Badge addon in a timely manner. The Organizer is not responsible for the mail, or delivery of the mail by mail providers, once it has been delivered to these mail providers. The Organizer is not responsible for incorrect addresses provided by Purchasers. In the event that a package has been returned to the Organizer by the mail providers, the Ship Your Badge addon will be automatically refunded. Purchasers may pick up their Credentials at the Event in this case.
Organizer is not responsible for any lost or stolen Credentials.
Organizer is not responsible for Credentials shipped to the wrong address as a result of incorrect entry by the Purchaser.
‘Ship Your Badge’ must be purchased prior to 12:00 AM on November 9th, 2022. Once this time passes, Ship Your Badge addons may not be purchased.
Only Adult Admission Badges can be shipped using Ship Your Badge. Merchandise, child admission, and admission to additional events will not be shipped.
Pick Up of Credentials
Credentials that were not shipped using Ship Your Badge are available for pickup during the Event.
Purchasers must bring the QR Code emailed to them to receive their Credentials or a valid government-issued photo identification with the First and Last Name listed on the order.
Forever Festive
The Organizer is selling a product called “Forever Festive” (previously known as “Founder”). These passes entitle the purchaser to assign one (1) Forever Festive benefit to one (1) individual. This assignment is made at purchase, and, once this assignment has been made, it cannot be changed. This assignment cannot be transferred for any reason. The Forever Festive product cannot be refunded for any reason.
The Forever Festive benefit grants one (1) VIP Badge per Event year for the lifetime of the Event. This badge grants the Forever Festive benefit holder access to all areas of the Event that are accessible to VIP Badge holders. On the first year of purchase, the Forever Festive benefit also grants the purchaser one (1) VIP merch package, which can be picked up at the Event’s merchandise booth. In subsequent years, Forever Festive benefit holders may purchase a VIP merch package for a fee. Forever Festive beneficiaries may purchase a Ship Your Pass package to have their badge mailed to their home address. If the Forever Festive beneficiary fails to pick up their badge, and they did not purchase the Ship Your Pass addon, it will not be shipped to them, and the Organizer will not offer any additional benefit for missing a year.
In order for the Forever Festive benefit to be distributed to the individual, they must bring their valid photo government ID to the VIP registration counter. The name on the identification must match the individual the Forever Festive benefit was assigned to. If the Organizer discovers a Forever Festive benefit being shared, given, or sold to another individual, then that benefit may be canceled permanently without refund.
Storage of Consumer Data
The data that is collected in the purchasing of Credentials is stored on servers supplied by third parties. This data is stored on secure servers that encrypt private information. The Organizer does not store any credit card information: this information is stored by 3rd party payment processors. Addressing information and identifying information is stored securely on Organizer servers.
Sharing of Consumer Data
The Organizer does not share any consumer information with third parties, except in the need to purchase or ship credentials to Purchasers. Shipping information is shared with mailing providers to ship credentials while Billing Information and Credit Card information is shared with payment processors to process payments for Credentials.
Refunds/Forwarding
For most Credentials and Physical Goods: Credentials purchased prior to October 15 prior to the Event may be refunded within 168 hours (7 days) of the purchase date. After October 15 (or 7 days after your purchase date, whichever comes first), refunds cannot be issued, but the Organizer can provide an equivalent Credentials comparable to what the Purchaser paid for in the following year’s Event. The Purchaser must make a Credentials forwarding request by December 31 of the year of purchase. Forwarding requests after this date will not be accepted after this date.
There are no refunds for Forever Festive/Founder purchases.
All donation-type tickets (Benefit Ball) cannot be refunded or transferred for any reason.
Physical Good purchases cannot be forwarded. Physical goods not picked up at the convention will not be refunded or shipped to the Purchaser.
Refunds issued include Ticket Price and Tax. Refunds cannot be issued on the Processing Fees.
Lines
When picking up Credentials, visiting an event, or getting food or drink, Attendees may need to stand in line. The Organizer strives to make lines as short as possible, but, during busy times, lines can be lengthy. Attendees understand they may be required to stand in these lines and Organizer is not responsible for the length or duration of the wait that Attendees must wait in line. Refunds, discounts, or free items will not be given due to the length of a line, or when a line is cut off due to maximum attendance.
Health and Safety
Attendees of the Organizer’s Event agree that attending these Events is an inherent risk. Attendees agree that travel to and attendance at the Event is at their own risk and is not the responsibility of the Organizer or its employees or affiliates. The Organizer is not obligated to provide advice or assistance related to arriving or participating in the Event.
Changes to Event
The Organizer strives to provide a schedule which is correct at the time of publication, but cancellations, delays, and other unforeseen circumstances can happen. The Organizer will strive to keep Attendees informed of changes to the Schedule, Guest availability, and room opening hours. Refunds may not be issued due to changes in the Event or Guest schedule.
Compliance
The Organizer agrees to protect all data provided to the Organizer by Purchasers under the requirements of Data Protection Laws. In order to fulfill obligations to Purchasers, Organizer does share personal and purchase information with third parties for the purpose of providing service in relation to Events, including, but not limited to: Event registration, communications, event access, dining, payment processing, post-event feedback, quality checks, participation verification (including for sanctions and trade control purposes).
For more information regarding the privacy of your personal data, please review our Privacy Policy at: .
The Organizer assumes no liability on the compliance with applicable laws and regulations regarding the ability of the Attendee to attend the Event.
Force Majure
In this clause, “Force Majure” refers to circumstances beyond the control of the Organizer, Venue, or any other affiliate which would result in the prevention of hosting an Event, or would make it impracticable, illegal, or impossible for the Organizer to host the Event.
In this case, the Organizer shall make reasonable efforts to reschedule the Event, switch the Event from a physical to an Online event. If the Organizer is unable to host the Event in its entirety then the Organizer shall provide credentials forward to an Event in the following calendar year or a refund if the Purchaser requests it.
Copyright
Purchasers agree that the platform and all material, including text, images, photographs, marks, insignias, logos, or other graphics or artwork created or licensed by the Organizer is the copyrighted property of the Organizer, and may not be used, reproduced, or shared with anyone without express written permission.
Pictures/Video
The Organizer contracts groups to take pictures and record their Events. Attendees agree to release a free, commercial, perpetual, unlimited, non-exclusive, irrevocable, transferable license on their likeness and voice to the Organizer for reproduction and sharing of these pictures, videos, and audio recordings of the Event to be used in advertising, discussion, or any other materials deemed necessary by the Organizer.
Resolution of Disputes
Attendees agree to not dispute any charges from the Organizer, unless an effort in good faith to rectify the situation directly with the Organizer has been made, and those efforts have failed. Any credits issued by the Organizer, for any reason, will not exceed the amount originally paid by the Purchaser.
Parties agree that all disputes arising from this agreement shall be governed by laws of the United States, in the State of Florida, in Hillsborough County, and consent to the exclusive jurisdiction, venue, and forum of any state or federal court in Hillsborough County, Florida. The Organizer shall be entitled to recover its reasonable attorney fees and costs resulting from any action to collect unpaid invoices. In addition, in the event that either party brings an action as the result of a dispute resulting from this agreement, the prevailing party shall be entitled to recover its reasonable attorney fees and costs, including those on appeal.
Changes to Terms and Conditions
The Organizer reserves the right to modify or supplement these Terms and Conditions at any time. If the Organizer makes any material changes to these Terms and Conditions, the Organizer shall update the website and platform to include such changes.
Date of Last Revision: November 10, 2022
Failure to abide by Prop Policies
Persons found to be in possession of items in violation of these policies will be required to immediately return to their vehicle or room to store the item. Persons that refuse to comply, or commit a second violation will result in the removal from the event, and revocation of convention credentials.
Minimum Clothing Requirements
Nudity is not a costume. Nipples and genitals must be fully covered. Butt must must be covered to the top of the intergluteal cleft (butt crack). Body paint must include cloth coverings of the nipples and genitals.
Footwear Requirements
All at Holiday Matsuri must meet the following shoe requirements:
- Footwear must include a rubber or plastic sole.
- Footwear must not include metal spikes. Soft rubber cleats are okay.
- Rollerblades, roller skates, or ice skates are not allowed to be worn at any time.
- Bare feet is acceptable at the pools and waterpark, but acceptable footwear must be worn as soon as one exits these areas.
- “Naked Footwear” (clear plastic sole with a flesh-tone strap) is acceptable, but the plastic/rubber sole must be entirely covering the bottom of the foot: skin must not come in contact with the floor.
- Footwear that does not conform to these guidelines may be carried, and worn for pictures, and then promptly switched out for acceptable footwear before resuming travel. All worn and carried footwear must conform to the guidelines of sharpness and material: sharp or metal items are not permitted. For more information, see the section on Sharp Edges and Materials.
Maximum Costume Height
All costumes must be able to fit through an 8’ Doorway, with the exception of pre-approved, large scale costumes for Contests.
Signs
Signs may only be shown if it is a normal part of the cosplay (such as Phoenix Wright’s “Objection” sign). Signage advertising or advocating (for or against) a cause, person, or idea is not permitted at any time. Signs advertising things for sale, including free stuff (such as “Free Hugs”) are not permitted at any time.
Paddles/Strikers
Yaoi Paddles (oars with writing on them) are not permitted at any time on the property or in the shuttle buses. Anyone seen striking another person with an object will be removed from the convention (regardless of the consent of the party being struck).
Chains/Leashes
Metal chains are not permitted. Non-metal chains and leashes cannot be longer than 4 feet. Chains attached to one’s person must be in control of the person wearing the chain at all times, with the exception of temporarily for taking pictures.
Restraints
Restraints are only permitted if the person being restrained can remove their own restraints easily.
Materials
Metal and metallic materials (including metallic composites) are not permitted. Metal screws used to secure one approved material to another are permitted, as long as the screw is not sticking out in any way.
Sharp Edges
Props must not have any sharp edges; all edges must be dulled. Dull testing will be handled on a case-by-case basis by Public Safety.
Portability Restrictions
All props must be able to be moved easily by one or two persons. Props must be able to fit through a standard 8 foot door, and cannot create traffic issues in the venue.
Firearms
Firearms of any kind are not permitted, at any time.
Realistic-Looking Fake Weaponry
Weaponry that is built to look like a realistic weapon must conform to the Material requirements, and the Non-Functioning Projectile Weaponry requirements.
Converted Projectile Weapons
All converted projectile weapons must conform to the Material requirements, and the Non-Functioning Projectile Weaponry requirements.
In addition:
- Firing Pins must be removed
- Barrel is filled with a permanent binding compound that renders the converted item unusable, such as E9000, Superglue, or Resin.
- Additionally, the following restrictions apply to other related items:
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Bullets: Guns that used to/could/can fire bullets are not permitted. Bullets with primer or gunpowder are not permitted at any time.
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Explosives: Weapons that used to/could/can fire any kind of explosives are not permitted.
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Pellets: Guns that could/can fire non-lethal pellets, such as Airsoft guns, are not permitted. -
Replica: Guns that are created as non-functional replicas are permitted, as long as they follow the above restrictions. -
Nerf/Foam Darts: Weapons that can fire low-velocity foam pellets or darts are not permitted unless they are rendered permanently inoperable (see the section on Non-Functioning Projectile Weaponry Requirements). -
Liquid/Gas: Props that can fire liquid or gas when triggered are not permitted unless they are rendered permanently inoperable (see the section on Non-Functioning Projectile Weaponry Requirements).
Confetti/Glitter: Props that can fire confetti or glitter cannot have any confetti or glitter loaded in the weapon at any time. Ammunition for these weapons cannot be brought onto the property at any time.
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Arrows: Props that can fire arrows must be unstrung, and can only be strung with low-tensile material, such as fabric, yarn, or string. Arrows with sharp tips or fiberglass shafts are not permitted on property.
Ammunition for any firearm may not be brought to the convention. Hand-launched ammunition (such as glitter or water balloons) is not permitted. Replica ammunition is only permitted if it does not contain any primers, explosives, or launching chemicals.
Converted weaponry is handled on a case-by-case basis by Public Safety. Public Safety is permitted to reject items at any time, even after online or initial permission.
Non-Functioning Projectile Weaponry Requirements
In order for a prop that looks like or is a converted projectile weapon to be permitted, the following requirements must be met:
- All barrels must be coated in a safety color (neon orange)
- Triggers must be completely removed, or rendered permanently inoperable.
- This includes coating the prop barrel tip in a neon orange. This tip color must be permanent, and cannot be removed. Triggers must be removed or rendered permanently inoperable. Public Safety will make the final determination on whether or not a weapon is appropriate.
Powered Wheeled Vehicles
Personal mobility aids (such as ECVs) are allowed. No other powered wheeled vehicles are permitted.
Flying Items
Drones, Unpowered Planes, or any other free-floating device are not permitted.
Unpowered Wheeled Vehicles
Unpowered wheeled vehicles are permitted as long as they only permit one (or none) person to sit, and they are able to fit easily through an 8’ door. Unpowered wheeled vehicles may not be allowed into some event rooms unless they are used for mobility purposes.
Throwing
Throwing of items is not permitted, under any circumstances. This includes glitter or confetti.
Vapes/Smoking/E-Cigarettes
Orlando World Center Marriott is a non-smoking/non-vaping property, and smoking/vaping of any kind is not permitted at any time, except for in designated smoking/vaping spots.
Explosives/Chemicals
All explosive or combustible materials are not permitted on the property.
Props acquired from Vendors/Artists On-Site
After making a purchase of a prop from the Vendor Hall or Artist Alley, the Vendor or Artist is required to securely peace bond the prop. This peace bond must not be removed, and original packaging must be kept intact until it is returned to the room or vehicle. If a person wishes to use the prop at the convention, it must conform to the guidelines, and it must be taken to the Prop Check desk for checking prior to being allowed at the convention.
Speakers and Amplification Devices
Personal speakers, boom boxes, and amplification devices of any kind are not permitted.
Strollers and Wagons
Strollers must be smaller than 31” in width and 52” in length. Wagons (including stroller wagons) are prohibited in the convention area during regular operating hours. Vendors and Invited Guests may utilize wagons during loading and unloading, and before the floor opens to the public only.
Dangerous Items not fitting into Guidelines
Items deemed as dangerous by Public Safety, hotel security, or law enforcement officers that are not listed in these guidelines will not be permitted, even if the item follows the above guidelines.
Prop Check
All props must be checked prior to going into any event, or walking around the convention floor. Any person that is in possession of a prop without a proper prop check tag will be required to go to the Prop Check desk or return it back to their room or vehicle. Props that are rejected must be stored in a locker, convention room, or vehicle.
Failure to abide by Prop Policies
Persons found to be in possession of items in violation of these policies will be required to immediately return to their vehicle or room to store the item. Persons that refuse to comply, or commit a second violation will result in the removal from the event, and revocation of convention credentials.
Cosplay is NOT Consent
At Holiday Matsuri, we hold the firm stance that Cosplay is NOT Consent. In addition, people deserve the right to be asked prior to being photographed. Ask before you snap and never touch anyone without permission.
Violation of the above policies may result in removal from the event without a refund and revocation of convention credentials, and cases may be referred to law enforcement officials.
Strict Harassment Policy
Harassment, inappropriate touching, stalking, or bullying of any kind is not permitted at any time. If you feel you are being harassed in any way, please locate a member of the Public Safety Team (they are in Red Shirts!), or a law enforcement officer.
Photography NOT Permitted Areas
Still and video photography is not permitted in the following areas:
- Hotel Registration Desk
- Hotel Spa
- Hotel Exercise Room
- Escalators
- Elevators
- Registration Room
- Backstage Areas
- Restaurants
- Bathrooms
- Valet/Drop Off Loading Areas
- Shuttle Loading/Unloading Areas
- Loading Docks
- Active Roadways
- Convention Registration Desk
- Changing Areas
- Public Safety Desk
Still or Video photography in the Guest Signing area is only permitted if you purchased a package from the guest that permits it. Still or Video Photography is only permitted in certain areas of the VIP Room.
Photography and Videography is not permitted in any 18+ Event.
Vendor Hall and Artist Room Photography
Allowing attendees to take photographs at a booth is at the discretion of the vendor or artist present. Please ask prior to photographing booths and respect no photography signs. Failure to do so may result in your removal from the event without a refund.
Free-Standing Devices/Structures
You may not setup any “free-standing” items (including, but not limited to: Tripods, Backdrops, or Lights) in the following areas:
- Hotel Lobby, including the hotel bar and starbucks
- Doorways, walkways, and throughways
- Blocking any fire exit or fire throughway
- Anywhere in any restaurant
- Escalators, Stairs, and Elevators
- Hotel Store
- Vendor Hall
- Artist Alley
- VIP Room
- Shuttle Loading/Unloading Areas
- Loading Docks
- Active Roadways
- Valet Drop Off/Loading Areas
- Convention Service Desks (such as Public Safety Desk, Registration Room, Information Desks, etc.)
- Changing Areas
- Hotel Waterpark
Holiday Matsuri staff, hotel security, fire safety personnel, and law enforcement officers have the right to require you to move any free-standing items. A person must be in sight of their items at all times. Items found unattended will be taken to Lost and Found.
Blocking Traffic with Equipment
Devices obstructing the flow of foot or car traffic or obstructing attendee use or view of an area you will be asked to remove it. Failure to comply may result in confiscation of the equipment. Holiday Matsuri, Law Enforcement Officers, or Marriott Hotels are not responsible for damaged equipment left in areas where it can be damaged by emergency traffic.
Free/Paid Photoshoot Policy
Holiday Matsuri has a paid photoshoot policy: All photographers that wish to offer, solicit, hold, or advertise a paid photoshoot session while on hotel and convention center grounds must have valid Holiday Matsuri credentials.
This policy only applies to those that wish to use the hotel and convention center groups for their personal and professional photoshoots. Individuals wishing to take pictures for their free, personal use may do so without worry.
Groups and individuals that represent media outlets may apply to our press program for priority access to cover the convention. Please check the Holiday Matsuri website for applications.
Holiday Matsuri Photographers/Videographers
Holiday Matsuri does hire photographers and videographers to take pictures and video of events. By attending Holiday Matsuri, you agree that Holiday Matsuri Photographers and Videographers have the right to take photographs and videos of your likeness at any time, and you grant an irrevocable right to use such pictures and video in the future.
Appearance Disclaimer
Holiday Matsuri does not make any guarantees regarding the appearance and attendance of guests, panels, or performance groups.
Attendance Release
By attending Holiday Matsuri, you agree to the following release:
I recognize that there are certain inherent risks with attending this event. I hereby RELEASE and DISCHARGE all responsibilities of HMConventions, LLC, Holiday Matsuri, its staff, employees, contractors, affiliates, volunteers, proprietors from any and all responsibility of loss, damage, theft, injury (including death) occurring as a result of my, or any of my ward’s attendance, presence, or participation in Holiday Matsuri. I agree to Indemnify and Defend HMConventions, LLC, its staff, employees, contractors, affiliates, volunteers, and proprietors, against all claims, causes of action, damages, judgements, costs, or expenses, including attorney fees or other litigation costs, which may, in any way, arise from my attendance, presence, or participation at Holiday Matsuri.
Damage Agreement
By attending Holiday Matsuri, you agree to the following:
I agree to respect the grounds of Orlando World Center Marriott, and its surrounding grounds. I agree that both HMConventions, LLC, and Marriott, their staff, affiliates, and officers have the right to demand payment for any damage I make to the facilities, products, or grounds of Holiday Matsuri and the Orlando World Center Marriott. I also agree that I will return any badges or wristbands issued to me if required by any officers of HMConventions, LLC upon request. I also understand that I may be removed from the Orlando World Center Marriott grounds if I am in violation of any of the rules and regulations of Holiday Matsuri or Marriott Properties.
Hate Speech/Bullying Agreement
By attending Holiday Matsuri, you agree to the following:
I understand that Holiday Matsuri is a safe, accepting space for all. As such, I understand that I am not authorized to make any hateful speech or actions putting down any person or group (in attendance or not). I understand that if I violate this agreement, I may be warned, or removed from the property without refund.
Photography Release
By attending Holiday Matsuri, you agree to the following:
I understand that HMConventions, LLC may hire photographers and videographers to record the event. I hereby grant an commercial, unlimited, perpetual, irrevocable, transferable license to my likeness and voice to be used in advertisement, discussion, and any other materials deemed necessary by HMConventions, LLC, as a result of being recorded at Holiday Matsuri.
Smoking/Drug Policy
Regulated Drugs (such as Prescription Drugs) are only permitted if you hold an active prescription, or you are a caretaker for a person attending Holiday Matsuri with the active prescription. Smokable marijuana is not permitted inside the convention center. Edible marijuana is allowed. Marijuana and THC-derived products are only allowed to be carried by those with a Medical Marijuana Permit, up to the maximum limit permitted by law. Other regulated drugs are not permitted on premises at any time.
Violators of drug policies will be referred to law enforcement.
Smoking of any kind, including vaping, is only permitted inside designated smoking areas. Orlando World Center Marriott is a non-smoking/non-vaping facility; smoking (including vaping) in your room, even on the balcony, can result in a significant cleaning fee.
Parking information will be updated soon!
Live Cooking
Distribution of Food/Drink (including pre-packaged, sealed food)
Use of liquids, gels, or sols (such as Whipped Cream, Silly String, etc.)
Use of Confetti or Glitter
Live use or presentation of props in violation of our Prop Guidelines (Video Presentations are OK)
Full Nudity
Smoking (including Vaping)
Gambling
The following panel subjects are not permitted under any circumstances:
Distribution or Promotion of Illegal Services, Methods, Materials, and Goods
Buy/Sell/Trade Panels
Photoshoot Panels
Gaming Tournaments
Promotion of Hate, Exclusion, Harassment, or Bullying
The Holiday Matsuri Panel Team has the right to manage the inclusion or exclusion of any panel, and the Panel Team has the right to increase or decrease the priority of any panel for any or no reason at their sole discretion.
Where can I submit a Panel?
The Panel Application can be found at: http://panels.holidaymatsuri.com
How do I schedule my Panel?
Panels will be scheduled according to availability. Panel Hosts that reject their panel’s schedule will be removed from the list.
What are the restrictions on 18+ Panels?
All 18+ Panels must start at 9pm or later. Panel space for 18+ events is limited.
When does panel scheduling start?
The Panel review process starts in September.
Are panels curated?
Yes, every panel application is reviewed thoroughly. Panel acceptance is determined by various factors to make sure the schedule is varied, interesting, and high quality.
What are the benefits for hosting a panel?
For every completed panel hour, up to two hosts (designated by the Panel Application Submitter) will receive $10 USD Cash per panel hour (e.g. a 1 hour panel gives $10 USD to two people, while a 2 hour panel gives $20 USD to two people). Hosts can receive their cash benefit by going to the Panel Support Desk after their panel has completed.
What is the 18+ Event Policy?
Only attendees 18 years of age or older are permitted to enter into 18+ events. Attendees age 17 or younger will not be permitted in any 18+ event, even when accompanied by a parent or guardian. All attendees wishing to enter into an 18+ event must present a valid photo identification. This identification must include the birthdate of the cardholder and a photograph of the person. Holiday Matsuri reserves the right to reject credentials at their discretion.
Pass Requirements
All contestants must have a valid pass to Holiday Matsuri for the day of the actual contest.
Multiple Participation
Attendees can only have one entry per contest.
Pass Awards
Any passes given as an award are provided as codes that can be redeemed at HoidayMatsuri.com. Pass Awards have no monetary value and cannot be sold, transferred, traded or upgraded. Pass Award codes cannot be transferred to future Holiday Matsuri events unless the convention has been postponed or canceled.
Signup Curation/Limitations
Holiday Matsuri reserves the right to curate entries. Not all entries will be accepted into the contests.
Monetary Awards
Monetary awards will be presented in Cash (USD, $) at the time of award.
Travel Awards
Travel awards will be presented as free flights to/from the designated destination at the specified date/time. In the event that winners are not able to travel at the time the tickets will be transferred to another winner.
Applying to Contests
Each contest will outline how to apply. Many contests require attendees to purchase a pass before applying.
Rules and Regulations
Contestants are required to follow all Rules and Regulations of Holiday Matsuri and that events Rules. Poor sportsmanship will disqualify attendees from all contests.
Age Requirements
Age limits may differ per contest, but all age restrictions are the same:
Participants 18 or older have no restrictions.
Participants 14-17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or have a signed parental consent form.
Participants age 13 or younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.
All participants of 18+ Events and Contests must be age 18 or older, and those under the age of 17 will not be permitted at any time.
Line Up Requirements
All contestants must appear at least one hour prior to the competition for line up.
Decency Rules
Unless otherwise noted, Videos, Audio, and Photos must be rated “PG” or lower. Sexually explicit content, violence, gore, or cursing is not allowed.
How much are passes?
Prices can be found on the Holiday Matsuri website at https://app.holidaymatsuri.com
Can my little children come in for free?
Persons ages 0-5 can may attend free of charge
Persons ages 6-12 qualify for a discounted pass.
Persons 13 years of age and older do not qualify for a discounted pass.
Can my children attend without a chaperone?
Children age 13 or younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.
Can my passes be shipped?
Yes! ‘Ship Your Pass’ is available until November 2023.
Ship Your Pass option can be selected during check out.
I didn’t purchase Ship Your Pass when I registered for my ticket, can I add on Ship Your Pass?
Yes! The “Ship Your Pass” option can be added separately.
All tickets associated with the email address will be shipped to the same address listed on the Ship Your Pass.
What addresses do you ship to?
Any US-based address or PO Box.
Restrictions apply to US-held territories and US Commonwealths.
If my address is found to be incorrect or undeliverable, what will happen?
Ship Your Pass that cannot be fulfilled will auto-refund. Purchasers must bring the QR Code emailed to them to receive their Credentials or a valid government-issued photo identification with the First and Last Name listed on the order.
Can I change the address on my Ship Your Pass?
Please make any address changes by November 2023. After that, no address changes may be made.
When is the cutoff date for Ship Your Pass?
Ship Your Pass will be locked on November 2023. After that time, no additional purchases or changes cannot be made.
Will you be confirming the shipping address?
Yes! Efforts will be made to email all Ship Your Pass attendees to verify the correct shipping address.
You will have time to make corrections and modifications to the mailing address provided.
Are Passes available during the event?
Any available passes will continue to be sold during the convention, both on the website and in-person. Passes listed as ‘sold out’ on the website will not be available at the convention.
Where is pass pickup/registration?
Registration information and badge pickup will be announced later this year.
Can passes be purchased online during the event? Yes. However, we cannot process any in-person transactions during the times not listed for In-Person Purchase of passes.
What payment types are accepted?
Holiday Matsuri accepts cash (USD,$) and all major credit cards.
What is the attendee refund policy?
- Passes (3-Day, Single Day, Child, VIP)
Attendees can request a full refund back to their original payment method within 7 days from purchase, or October 2023 (whichever comes first). Refunds after October 15th 2022 will be handled on a case by case basis by emailing info@holidaymatsuri.com. Attendees may also request their tickets be rolled over to 2022 by emailing info@holidaymatsuri.com.In the event of a full event cancellation, policies for ticket forwarding and refunds will be provided to all attendees via email.Refund requests for passes mailed out after November 2023 will not be eligible for refunds or event rollovers. - Physical Goods (Merch. T-Shirts, Pins, etc.)
Full refunds may be requested on or before October 2023.
- Donation Tickets (Benefit Ball)
Benefit Ball purchases of donation tickets are nonrefundable and cannot be transferred or forwarded. - Third-Party Events
A number of events are held by third-party groups. Refund requests are handled at the discretion of those third-party groups. Holiday Matsuri cannot offer any support regarding refunds and forward credit requests for those events.
If I am picking up my VIP Passes, can my non-VIP party pick up their passes in the Priority pass Pickup line?
Only VIP and Forever Festive Pass holders may access the Priority Pickup line.
Can I purchase a Forever Festive pass?
All Forever Festive passes have sold out.
How do I redeem my Forever Festive Pass?
Forever Festive Pass Holders must bring a valid Photo ID to Priority Access Pickup at Registration.
What do VIP Passes include?
All VIPs (including Forever Festive) get the following benefits:
- Priority Line at Registration
- One hour early access to the Vendor Room on Friday December 16th, 2022.
- Reserved front row seats in Main and Special Events (while supplies last)
- Access to the VIP Room
- 2023 Forever Festive and VIP Pass will also receive the following:
- One Holiday Matsuri 2023 T-Shirt in size of choice
- One Holiday Matsuri 2023 Pin of choice
I deleted my pass receipt email! How do I get my QR Code?
Please login to https://app.holidaymatsuri.com/ to retrieve ticket information.
Is there a schedule of events and panel?
All event information is provided through the Holiday Matsuri app and website.
How do I find out more information about the Cosplay Deviants 18+ Cosplay Contest?
Please contact Cosplay Deviants at events@cosplaydeviants.com
Do I need to pay any additional fee to attend any events?
The following events require additional ticketing/fees to attend the events:
Benefit Ball
Cafe Events (Such as Maid Cafe and BROcafe)
Some Cosplay Academy events
Autographs Sessions and Photos with guests require a separate purchase.
What are the Bag check policies?
All activities in the Main or Special Events Halls or the Rave Room after 7:00pm will have the following Bag Check Policy:
Only clear bags are permitted at these activities. Attendees will be allowed one (1) clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag no larger than 12″ x 6″ x 12″ or a one-gallon clear zip-lock bag. Props or Cosplay accessories larger than 12 inches will not be permitted. Medically necessary items will be permitted as needed, with approval by Public Safety. No other exceptions will be made.
Attendees with bags or items that do not satisfy the Bag Check Policy may store them at the available lockers or coat check desk for a fee. Attendees are also encouraged to leave items outside of this policy in their hotel room or vehicle.
Items left unattended in the convention area will be turned in to lost and found.
What is required at Age Restricted events?
Age Verification Wristbands are required to attend age restricted events. These are available at Public Safety with a valid government-issued photo identification.
Wristbands are valid all weekend, and early pickup is highly recommended.
Wristbands will not be issued at the door for Age Restricted events, and no exceptions to the wristband policy will be made. Wristbands do not constitute proof of age for alcohol purchases. ID can be spot checked at any time, so always keep it with you!
