Foodees Food & Cultural Festival Impersonator Scam

 In early September, I decided to apply for the Foodees Food & Cultural Event in Rehoboth, DE, after seeing an ad on Facebook. I opted for a premium spot because I’ve had great experiences with other events and wanted a better location. The application came with a payment link, and the next day I was told I was accepted and asked to submit payment. Excited, I paid via Zelle when the link wouldn’t accept my card—something I now realize was risky.

After some time with no updates, I emailed the organizer. They said the vendor package would be sent soon and requested a $50 “damage fee”, which raised red flags. When the package never arrived, I was told my application was incomplete due to not paying the refundable fee. I submitted the payment, despite the financial sacrifice and risk I was taking. I had previously tried calling their number, but no one answered. Later, I noticed their pictures and information seemed off. When I finally reached someone, I was told I wasn’t on their roster. The organizer was unhelpful and showed no remorse, even though they are aware scams are happening but take no precautions to protect vendors.

Don’t end up like me! $300 down the drain, thousands of dollars in inventory because I wanted to be prepared, bills due, and nowhere to sell—at least for this weekend. No updates, no feedback, and no support from the organizers. You try to give yourself a chance, and the one time you do, you get scammed. Be careful with this event!