In response to attendees who wanted refunds after the cancellation of Lightning in a Bottle this year, the Do LaB has offered up new options.
As spring festivals began to face the reality of postponements and cancellations last month as the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic grew larger by the day, the Do LaB was faced with a major decision to make. Taking to their website and social media channels to release a statement regarding the cancellation of Lightning in a Bottle, it lacked a refund option that many who planned to attend were hoping to see included.
Much akin to the response from those who planned to attend Ultra Music Festival (who also offered no official refund opportunity), a negative backlash from the community came in response over losing both a festival and their money’s worth. Additionally, they were met with a lawsuit over the lack of a refund that found its way to TMZ and other outlets.
In response to the reaction from their loyal fanbase, the DoLab has now released a new statement on their website with regret to their community for disappointing them during these hard times.
“We are absolutely heartbroken to not be able to offer the light of Lightning in a Bottle during these trying times and the decision to take this extraordinary step has been a very difficult one,” the Do LaB said. “Please accept our apologies; we aim to create joy and human connection, and never want to disappoint anyone–especially all of you.”
Additionally, the Do laB presented to the Lightning in a Bottle community three options for them to choose from moving forward.
The first option gives attendees the choice to help the production by donating the ticket costs to the company to help prevent excessive debt and elimination of the event. The second option includes transferring your ticket for a future edition of the festival in 2021 or 2022, with an upgrade to their VIP tier for all who make this decision.
The third option allows the community to join a pool to receive a refund. Do Lab indicated that not all who apply for this option will be guaranteed a refund immediately, however, they are aiming to provide answers for their attendees and estimate how many people can benefit from one.
Without a doubt, it is with deep sorrow that LIB will not have the opportunity to celebrate another year at Buena Vista Lake, with performers like Kaytranada, GRiZ, or James Blake. The continued support of their community is what they will rely on for the future of their shows.
Stay tuned for more information about other cancellations and postponements from around the world as we continue to follow the impact coronavirus has on the festival season this year.
