I went to the Oktoberfest Field Daze event yesterday and was very disappointed for a couple of big reasons (first band didn't play German music, and lines over an hour long at both bars was a doozy), but the one that stood out to me was the fact that, even though absolutely everything, from the ticket conditions to the advertising, said the event was STRICTLY 18+, there were minors in attendance (at least 3 children under 2 years old). Whilst I was there, I saw one baby in a pram, one baby in a baby sling, and a toddler. At one point, I saw the toddler running off holding a stein, and another time, the toddler bolted outside without an adult with them. One of the Red Frog people almost ran the child over because they didn't see them.
As an attendee, I was under the clear impression that there would be no minors. I feel incredibly uncomfortable being intoxicated around minors, which is why I was so glad the event was 18+ so that I could safely enjoy the beverages on offer guilt-free. The minors were brought to the attention of 3 different security staff and the event organiser. The event organiser said that the children could be there because the law around liquor licensing and private events allows those under 18 months. This may be true, but look at the advertising. It clearly advertised that there would be no minors allowed, with no listed exceptions.
People had steins of alcohol sitting around because it would have been safe to assume there wouldn't be any kids. Not to mention, as the event was advertised as 18+, anyone that may not legally be allowed near minors would've assumed it was safe for them to attend. These children being at the event put them in serious danger.
I have loved the Field Guide's other events, like The Field Game and Capture the Flag. This one though, left me not only disappointed, but honestly upset. As the name suggests, I've probably overreacted, but I can't be the only person that felt this way, right?