Organizers of WasabiCon PDX, a popular annual anime, gaming, and cosplay convention held in downtown Portland, are facing severe criticism and backlash after relocating the Artists Alley to a parking garage at the Hilton Portland Downtown. Many artists and vendors have reported experiencing unsanitary conditions, poor ventilation, and vermin infestation, resulting in damaged merchandise and health issues.

The convention, which has been a staple in the Portland area for over a decade under various ownerships, had a reported attendance of 5,576 in 2023. Traditionally, the Artists Alley offered a spacious and well-lit area for artists to display and sell their merchandise. However, this year, the decision was made to move the Artists Alley to the hotel's parking garage.

Numerous artists, including Adrian Sjoquist from N2Operation, a fashion and accessories business, have expressed their disappointment and frustration with the poor conditions they encountered. In earlier communications, organizers shared pictures of a clean and well-lit space, but upon arrival, artists were greeted with a filthy environment filled with dirt, tar, and grime.

Sjoquist and Rhys Anderton from N2Operation described the experience as hazardous and worse than anything they had ever encountered before. They shared stories of being covered in dirt while setting up their booth and even mentioned reports from other artists who discovered mice in their belongings.

The discomfort did not end with the unclean conditions. Attendees and artists complained about the intense heat in the garage during the late July convention. Despite convention staff setting up fans, the space remained uncomfortably hot, leading to artists and visitors leaving their booths to cool down. The overpowering smell of cigarette smoke also contributed to an unpleasant experience, causing symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and coughs among those present.

Additionally, accessibility issues were raised, with reports of limited restroom access and difficulties for individuals using wheelchairs to navigate the steep garage ramp. Although an elevator was available, it became crowded and delayed.

The decision to move the Artists Alley to the garage had a significant impact on sales. N2Operation reported a "massive" drop in revenue, earning only about a sixth of what they typically make at WasabiCon. Other artists also noticed a decrease in visitors to their booths, with attendees seemingly unaware of the Artists Alley's new location.

WasabiCon organizers posted on Instagram, laying the blame on the Hilton Hotel and acknowledging the subpar experience. They announced a 25% refund for artists and vowed to relocate the Artists Alley to a different space in 2025. However, artists expressed dissatisfaction with the refund offer, considering it a "slap in the face" and demanding a full refund. WasabiCon has reportedly refused to fulfill this request, according to emails shared by N2Operation.

The controversy surrounding WasabiCon PDX's decision to relocate the Artists Alley to a parking garage has sparked outrage among artists and attendees alike. As discussions continue, many hope that the organizers will address the concerns raised and take necessary steps to ensure a better experience for all participants in future conventions.