A popular festival making its rounds across the nation has a history of suddenly canceling. Arizona is now on that list.
The Lights Fest, organized by Utah-based Viive Events, was scheduled for October 21 in Florence, but customers learned Tuesday the event will not take place.
"It's just very disappointing," said ticket holder Matthew Kruger.
Kruger and his family purchased tickets about two months ago. Like most customers, he had no idea the company has suddenly canceled in other states, including California, Colorado, and Missouri.
Viive Events has an "F" rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Communications Director Felicia Thompson said it is currently facing 72 complaints.
"What customers are alleging to us is they paid for an event, signed up for an event, expected an event, but it was canceled and they haven't been able to get their money back."
Several of the complaints note the company is unresponsive and many claim they haven't received refunds.
ABC15 reached out to Viive Events last week before the Arizona festival was canceled.
The company said it has canceled in the past due to "circumstances beyond our control," for example, fire danger.
In the e-mail Kruger received this week, the company said it failed to get its permit from the city of Florence.
"They did an excellent job marketing, but unfortunately I don't think they spent enough time on the organization," Kruger said.
He plans to hold Viive Events accountable until he receives his refund.
"Unfortunately, I didn't do my research," he said. "It blows my mind."
ABC 15 followed up with Viive Events about the sudden cancellation.
A spokesperson said it is because of a miscommunication with officials in Florence. If customers want to reach Viive Events, they can e-mail them (info@thelightsfest.com) by going to their website.
Viive Events says the Lights Fest is rescheduled for February 2018.
