Last updated 6/26/2022
Like much of the country, Oregon is in the midst of a new COVID wave, fueled by the latest highly-contagious Omicron variant. The good news is that it's expected to crest soon, and there's no indication of a new mask mandate coming in Multnomah County. Thankfully, symptoms have relatively been mild for vaccinated and boosted folks. Nonetheless, Tiki Kon is a crowded, indoor event, and we strongly encourage everyone to do the right thing and help prevent transmission of the virus by wearing a high quality N95 or KN95 mask when not eating or drinking, and by taking other common sense precautions.
Will masks be required at Tiki Kon?
Not required, but that doesn't mean they're not a good idea. We're leaving it up to individuals to protect themselves if they choose, using high-quality N95 or KN95 masks, properly fitted and with no facial hair.
For most people symptoms are mild, but there's also a high prevalence of long term symptoms, and indications that the virus might trigger other medical conditions. Is it worth the mild inconvenience of wearing a mask to avoid the risk? That's up to you to decide.
Regardless of your personal choice, harassing guests one way or another, making a scene, or causing anyone to feel uncomfortable because of their choice will not be tolerated.
Will Tiki Kon require proof of vaccination or testing?
No, proof of vaccination will not be required at Tiki Kon. It would likely be more trouble than it's worth at that point anyway, given how many people will already be vaccinated, either by getting the jab or getting an infection.
What if I get sick before or during Tiki Kon?
We request that you not attend if you're not feeling well, even if it's not the coronavirus. Gone are the days when you can take some cold meds and pretend to not be sick around other people. Seriously. Tiki Kon will offer last-minute ticket refunds on a case by case basis to guests who cannot attend because they are sick, but guests are responsible for cancelling their hotel reservations with the hotel in that event.
Should I get tested after attending Tiki Kon?
Yes. You can get tests for free from the federal government, so there's no excuse not to. We recommend getting tested before and after any large indoor event, even if you don't have symptoms. Life is not without risk, but we believe that knowledge is power, and we encourage everyone to be responsible and err on the side of caution.
What other public health measures is Tiki Kon taking?
Everyone has access to the same high quality health information that we do, and by now everyone should know how COVID spreads and how to keep themselves safe in a crowd. At this point, we must each decide for ourselves how much risk we are willing to take in pursuit of pleasure. There is risk in all things, but we believe it's possible to find a responsible and enjoyable balance.
Honestly there's not a whole lot we can do at a function where guests constantly have drinks in their hands, sit shoulder to shoulder in shows and symposiums, and pack themselves into the vending hall and room parties. And there's no way we can afford to reduce capacity enough to allow social distancing all weekend---we wouldn't be able to sell enough tickets to cover our expenses, and we'd be out of business.
Anyone who still has concerns is encouraged to take extra precautions such as avoiding crowded and poorly ventilated spaces such as room parties, wearing a high-quality N95 mask when not actively eating or drinking, and avoiding close contact with anyone who might be less vigilant.
We offer no-questions-asked refunds until 7 days before Tiki Kon begins, and no-penalty last minute refunds to guests who cancel due to illness and provide a written attestation of the fact. See our Refund Policy for more information.