Frequently Asked Questions

What is NERDI GRAS?

In the beginning, NERDI GRAS was supposed to be a small nerdy get-together for some friends after conventions were forced to either go virtual or cancel altogether after the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Social distancing and the lack of in-person conventions made a lot of us anxious for in-person interaction and some of us decided to plan a shindig for "when all of this is over". As we socialized this idea, informally, among our friends, we realized that demand for this kind of event was a lot greater than we expected. In very little time, our "small get-together" morphed into a "full-blown thing" and the idea for NERDI GRAS was born.

No, Really. What is NERDI GRAS?

NERDI GRAS is a celebration of all things geek. It's 2 1/2 days of music, entertainment, video games, board games, and cosplay designed to evoke Carnivale with a riot of color, sound, and energy. It's a place where all are welcome to join in a community of friends who play together, who are creative together, and who share a desire to be a part of a true Nerd Bacchanalia.

I Have a Better Question. Why is NERDI GRAS?

We took a look at the convention calendar in Atlanta and though to ourselves "Selves?  Why do we have to wait until the summer for the big geek conventions to happen?"

I mean, look at March.

March 14th.  3/14.  Pi Day.  That's pretty Nerdy, isn't it?

It's close to Mardi Gras, and everyone loves a good party, right?

Nerds + Party = NERDI GRAS!

Throw in some costumes, some live entertainment, and lots and lots of gaming, and Laissez Les Nerds Temps Rouler!

Is NERDI GRAS "Kid Friendly"?

Short answer? No.

There are plenty of conventions and activities that cater to the kid-friendly market.  Many of us are parents, ourselves.  We made the decision, early in the process, to cater to a mature crowd for NERDI GRAS.  If you are familiar with Mardi Gras in New Orleans, you are well aware of the type of celebrations that go on outside of the official events.  We do not believe it is realistic to expect kid-friendly behavior at an event that bills itself in a manner comparable to Mardi Gras.  In the interest of transparency, we make this information known to the public in advance so that parents can make informed decisions on whether or not to attend this event.

Are Memberships Refundable?

Short Answer? No.

Since this event was conceived from the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020, it is only logical for us to have a plan in place in case of future events that may have a similar impact on our ability to host the event.

Our policy is that a membership purchase is effective for the next occurrence of the event, whenever that may be.  We have no plans to cancel the event for any reason.  On the chance that circumstances force us to not be able to host the event on the announced weekend, we will postpone to a future weekend.  Your purchased membership will be rolled over to that future date.

The only foreseeable circumstance under which NERDI GRAS would be canceled is if there are no plans to host the event in the future.  Under those circumstances, refunds will be issued.

Can I Host My Own Event at NERDI GRAS?

Short Answer? Yes.

The entire point of NERDI GRAS is for people to come together with their gaming communities.  Many people use events like this to plan "guild gatherings" or other such events and we strongly encourage this at NERDI GRAS.  If you would like to set up a gathering for you and your community at NERDI GRAS, please Contact Us and we will be happy to help you out.

Can You Help Us With Cosplay Photoshoots?

Short Answer? Yes!

If you would like to set up a cosplay photoshoot for your cosplay group, we would be happy to coordinate with you to get a space for your shoot.  Please Contact Us so we can work on the details.

Can I Charge Money For...

If you think you can make money doing it at NERDI GRAS, it’s probably not allowed unless you have written permission from the event chairman.

That is especially true when you’re taking pictures or video or making audio recordings of the awesome stuff and people at NERDI GRAS.

Or, as our lawyers like to say…All NERDI GRAS members and attendees at NERDI GRAS are prevented from taking, recording, or creating film, or digital pictures, videos, tapes, sound recordings, or any other visual or auditory recreation of any kind whatsoever, of any NERDI GRAS guest, member, volunteer, or employee, or of any NERDI GRAS event for any commercial use, or for the solicitation of funds for any commercial or other purpose, without the express written permission of Krewe Redbeard, LLC .

If you spent all year building the perfect costume, please give freely when people want to take pictures of you. Be proud of what you accomplished, but not so proud that you demand or accept payment, tips, or donations. It’s just the way things work around here.