Just two weeks after announcing that the Southeastern Wildlife Exposition (SEWE) was ready for 2021, the organization reversed its decision and canceled the 39th annual event planned for February 11-14.
The SEWE team met with its board of directors last week to assess the current state of public health and evaluate safety plans and protocols for the 2021 event, and it was collectively concluded that the February event should be canceled.
In the past 10 months, SEWE organizers have been closely monitoring the pandemic and working together with the city of Charleston and local and regional agencies to develop draft plans for a 2021 event. Organizers said the team regularly consulted with appropriate organizations to organize an event that aligned with the health and safety guidelines established by local leaders. However, with the increase in COVID-19 cases across the country, the organization said it faces decisions that could compromise the safety of sponsors and the integrity of the event.
“I am extremely proud of the effort shown by our team and the entire SEWE family to plan an event in these uncertain times. We knew we were facing a difficult task, but we sailed last year having open conversations with stakeholders and regulatory agencies, ”said John Powell, executive director of SEWE. “We are very pleased with the unwavering support of our faithful participants, corporate partners, from the city of Charleston and the state of South Carolina. I believe that the spirit of persevering, despite the new and frightening challenges, is what will take us out of these times and for a more secure and prosperous future. “
SEWE will provide all customers who have purchased tickets and / or VIP packages with the following ticket options:
• Ticket refund: SEWE will refund the amount of the ticket package purchased (applicable for VIP tickets, general admission and Lowcountry Social). Refunds are only available upon request and must be completed within 45 days after the event is canceled. SEWE 2021 claims can be submitted online. Contact [email protected] with questions or concerns.
• Ticket donation: The value of the purchased ticket package can be donated to Southeastern Wildlife Exposition as an income tax deductible donation. Donations will help support the nonprofit’s mission to showcase the country’s best wildlife artists, raise awareness for conservation, positively influence wildlife and nature education and impact local and state economies by increasing of tourism.
SEWE is encouraging its loyal fan base to support the nonprofit and its partners during President’s Day weekend and throughout the year. Organizers are also working on other opportunities to offer sponsors and partners a taste of SEWE in the fall, before the event officially returns in February 2022 for the highly anticipated 40th year celebration, from 17 to 20 February.
For more information about the event, visit sewe.com.