Is Reefapalooza a scam for LPS corals?

[Mr. Acantho]

I’m not sure if this coral show is where corals go to get overhyped price tags or what, but it’s got me suspicious. I heard it’s basically like a gun show, except instead of rifles, they’ve got frags, and instead of tactical gear, it’s all about exotic polyps and fancy lights. And the prices? Oh, they're high enough to make you think the corals are grown on the moon. They’re definitely trying to squeeze out every dollar from folks caught up in the hype. The real deals? Yeah, those are reserved for the shops before or after the show, when everyone’s not blinded by glittery displays and overly excited hobbyists ready to throw down hundreds on a 1-inch stick of coral like it's the next Mona Lisa.

I've never been there so wanted other people's thoughts if I should go next time.

 

[Reefer Matt]

I’m not sure if this coral show is where corals go to get overhyped price tags or what, but it’s got me suspicious. I heard it’s basically like a gun show, except instead of rifles, they’ve got frags, and instead of tactical gear, it’s all about exotic polyps and fancy lights. And the prices? Oh, they're high enough to make you think the corals are grown on the moon. They’re definitely trying to squeeze out every dollar from folks caught up in the hype. The real deals? Yeah, those are reserved for the shops before or after the show, when everyone’s not blinded by glittery displays and overly excited hobbyists ready to throw down hundreds on a 1-inch stick of coral like it's the next Mona Lisa.

I've never been there so wanted other people's thoughts if I should go next time.

I’ve never been there, but noticed their table fees for vendors are $800+ for one table. That is usually why prices are higher at the big shows, they gotta make that money back and turn a profit in two days. Sometimes vendors will bring a big expensive “showy” coral to draw in the crowd and engage them, without the expectation of actually selling it. But I think if you shop around, you’ll find some deals, especially on the last day close to closing time.

 

[polyppal]

That’s how shows are in general anymore, I pretty much don’t bother to go unless it’s just to sightsee.

The exception would be local frag swaps where people usually offer great deals.

That’s not to say you can’t haggle prices at shows though

 

[Lavey29]

I like shows like this because you actually see what you are interested in rather then photo shopped online pics. You actually take it home rather then left in a hot UPS truck all day. Price is subjective. You get what your wallet will accommodate. You can always negotiate price to which is something online orders don't allow either.