TwitchCon San Diego 2022 will have indoor COVID measures following backlash

Masks are now required in indoor spaces along with proof of vaccination or negative COVID test.

Earlier this month, it was revealed that TwitchCon San Diego, set to be held in-person at the San Diego Convention Center later this October, would not have any COVID-19 measures in place of any kind. That included things like not mandating masks, and not requiring proof of vaccination.

However, after receiving a wealth of backlash for this, TwitchCon has since amended its guidelines to include COVID measures. Now, attendees will be required to wear masks in indoor spaces (but not outdoor spaces like Kappa Cabana and the TwitchCon Party). Attendees will also be required to show proof of vaccination, or proof of a negative COVID test within 72 hours of attending the show.

We want TwitchCon to be a place where our entire community can come together and celebrate each other. It should be an inclusive event for everyone, and that means taking steps to ensure as many people as possible feel comfortable with the safety precautions we’re taking.

© TwitchCon

The statement from TwitchCon goes on to suggest that some may be disappointed by the news and notes that refunds will be offered for tickets purchased before August 12 until August 19.

We recognize that some of you will be disappointed by these new health measures, but we believe these additional requirements will make it possible for more members of our community to safely attend TwitchCon. If you aren’t comfortable with these requirements, we’ll refund your TwitchCon San Diego 2022 tickets purchased before Aug. 12, 2022 until Aug. 19, 2022.

Additional information regarding the safety of TwitchCon can be found in the amended guidelines on TwitchCon’s FAQ page, which include mention of having hand sanitizer stations throughout the venue.

(Updated 8/12/22) All attendees (including exhibitors, guests, staff, streamers, etc.) must verify that they are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 OR provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test to attend TwitchCon. Regardless of vaccination status, all attendees will also be required to wear approved face coverings to enter and remain at TwitchCon.

We will also have hand sanitizer stations throughout the venue. Please see our Health Measures FAQs for more information on what constitutes a full vaccination, acceptable proof of a negative test and face coverings.

© TwitchCon

On the one hand, it’s good that TwitchCon is taking the backlash and feedback into consideration and are changing their guidelines as a result. However, it’s also a bit ridiculous that TwitchCon wouldn’t have these measures to begin with, and that it took backlash to get them to acknowledge that COVID is still very much a thing.

Of course, we’re curious to hear your thoughts on TwitchCon updating its guidelines to include COVID measures. Do you think what TwitchCon has in place is enough, or could they be doing more? Let us know in Chatty!

Morgan is a writer from the frozen wastelands of Maine who enjoys metal music, kpop, horror, and indie games. They’re also a Tetris fanatic who’s fiercely competitive in games like Tetris 99… and all games in general. But mostly Tetris. You can follow Morgan on Twitter @Author_MShaver.