Omicron came just when things looked normal again, with theatres, concerts and other events enjoyed by thousands.
Covid virus is currently spreading across the nation, making it difficult for most to stay away from coronavirus until Christmas.
Even though events are cancelled all the time, many people are reluctant or unable to travel to certain shows and concerts.
Anyone who bought tickets in the past two years will be familiar with the concept of a rearranged date. Sometimes dates are postponed for shows and gigs.
Customers may not know if they can get a return, gift certificate, or anything at all, depending on whether they decide that they don’t want to go to the performance.
Customers often wonder if there is a way to get their tickets back if they cancel.
The organisers have decided to cancel some performances due to crew and cast being infected with coronavirus.
With ticket prices now regularly running to upwards of £50 or £100, those with bookings can stand to lose substantial sums – or end up with hundreds of pounds in sunk costs for events that keep stretching into the future.
These customers are asking whether their money will be refunded if the show is moved to another date or time.
Many people want to keep supporting artists and promoters, and hold on to tickets as much as possible, but there will be times when it is necessary to seek money back.
This is Money spoke to industry experts and ticket merchants to answer these questions – and find out what a customer’s right to a refund is.
If the organizer cancels, can you receive a full refund?
Citizens Advice states that tickets bought from official sellers can be refunded if the organizer cancels, moves, or reschedules an event. The organiser should tell you how you can request a refund.
A show that is cancelled will most likely cancel your tickets. You’ll only receive the face value back.
Sometimes sellers will refund shipping costs if the event is cancelled prior to the tickets being sent. You might not receive any refunds if you have to pay booking fees or credit card fees.
Except for a travel package that included the ticket, you will usually not get your accommodation or travel costs back.
It is possible to resell tickets. However, you should check the terms of the seller who sells tickets to find out what their policies are regarding reselling tickets.
If you are refused a refund by the ticket seller, make sure they are a member of the Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers. If they are, then you have the option to use STAR’s complaint procedure.
If an event is cancelled, STAR members are entitled to a refund of the face value.
Check with your bank to see if they can help you get your money.
If you purchased your tickets from either a secondary, private, or reselling site, it is unlikely that you will be reimbursed.
Adam French, Which? Which?’s Adam French, Consumer Rights Expert.
However, tickets purchased through a secondary seller such as Viagogo, StubHub or Viagogo will not be covered by the same protections. To see exactly what your rights are, you should check out their terms and conditions.
It was also asked several ticket dealers to explain their policies by This Is Money.
A spokesperson from Ticketmaster said that if an event has to be cancelled, fans will receive a refund. If a show has to be rescheduled, customers can hold onto their tickets or get a refund.
Cris Miller is Vice President for Business Development at Viagogo. He added that it was unfortunate to see event postponements rise by 93% so far in December.
“We believe that once all the concerns and uncertainty surrounding the new version have passed, we will see a quick bounce back, much like what happened when restrictions were lifted earlier in this year.
Our platform provides a gift certificate or full refund for event cancellations up to 125 percent of original price. All tickets purchased on Viagogo come with our Viagogo Guarantee. Anyone who wishes to sell tickets for events that they are unable or do not want can use our secure and safe option.
If the event is moved to another date in the future, other people might have to cancel it.
Can you get your money back if you cancel?
Although many people will ask for a refund if the coronavirus changes their minds, it is illegal to claim your money back.
Many aren’t able to offer refunds after the losses suffered by venues, promoters, and theatres over the past two years.
French also stated that ‘Events can’t be cancelled by government’. Therefore, if an event is scheduled as it was and you don’t go to it, there’s no legal right to receive a refund.
“But, it is worth asking the organizer if credit can be obtained or if tickets can be swapped for a future date.”
Some companies provide insurance for an additional cost, but it’s worth looking at what it will cover.
Many venues were closed due to restrictions in the past, which cost them large amounts of money.
Is it possible to get a partial refund for not being able to attend the revised date?
While some shows are cancelled, others are being moved to another date.
Many will find this better than having the event cancelled completely. But for others, they might not be able to go.
Customers should have the right to request a refund from organizers if this is possible.
French said: ‘If an event you have tickets for is postponed, you should hold on to your tickets until a new date is announced.
If you cannot attend the scheduled date but purchased the ticket through the event organizer, or from a primary retailer you will be eligible for a refund of your face value.
You will have to review any terms and conditions if you purchased your ticket from another seller.
If you can’t attend the date you have chosen, you might be able to get some money back by reselling the ticket. However, you should make sure the terms permit you to do so.
Isolating is a good idea.
Coronavirus has been reported in many cases.
They will therefore not be allowed to attend the events. In this case you might be eligible to receive a full refund. However, not everyone is so fortunate.
French stated that if you are positive for Covid-19 you will be legally obliged to self-isolate or face fines. Some ticket sellers will let you exchange tickets before the event, though this is not always possible so you might lose your chance.