Bamboozle Festival was abruptly cancelled after New Jersey officials refused its final permit. Now fans say they’re getting bamboozled on refunds, too.
“After extensive discussions, we have made the heartbreaking decision to cancel Bamboozle 2023,” the organizers told potential attendees. “An incredible amount of time, dedication, passion and hard work was invested into making this comeback a success. We appreciate everyone who supported this festival. Refunds should be requested at point of purchase.”
But many fans have taken to social media to say that requesting a refund doesn’t mean it will happen. One fan posted a screenshot of an email conversation they had about refunds. “The refund process will begin May 1, 2023 and could take up to 90 days till the funds are returned. Ticket purchasers like you can and must seek a refund from the point of purchase,” the email reads.
“In the event this does not result in a refund from any of our ticketing platforms, you can get a full refund recovery by contacting your bank or credit card company,” the email continues. The person who was sent the email commented that they cannot get anyone to begin the process of starting the refund.
“The scam of Bamboozle continues. BAM Ticketing won’t refund fans at the point of purchase and Bamboozle is shirking responsibility, telling fans they should contact their banks instead,” the fan explains. The festival could not continue after Atlantic City officials refused to grant the final permit to the event when organizers were unable to comply with the timeline given to them.
“We asked for this information months in advance to protect the city and the taxpayers of Atlantic City,” City Administrator Anthony Swan said about the cancellation. “The event was fast approaching and these issues were still unresolved.”
Fans purchased $400 three-day tickets as festival organizer John D’Esposito promised a stacked line-up of musicians. Many ticketholders also contacted the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs to report false advertising and inability to request refund for the cancelled festival.