Last Update: July 23, 2022
We want our members to know that we continue to monitor updates from the CDC, the city, as well as our partners in regards to COVID-19. We'll be keeping this page updated with information as we have it regarding Otakon 2022 convention policies.
In the interest of the safety of all our members, Otakorp will require Otakon 2022 attendees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 (if eligible), or to present a negative Covid PCR test with a sample dated after 6 AM no more than 3 days prior to picking up your badge. Masks will also be required to be worn in all convention areas in the Walter E Washington Convention Center and the Marriott Marquis.
In addition to Otakorp’s policies, Otakorp reminds all members that they are individually responsible for complying with any and all standing policies of the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and with any and all laws and ordinances in effect in the City of Washington, DC, including those related to COVID-19.
This policy is subject to change based on changes to CDC guidelines, local regulations or other data.
Due to the unpredictable nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, Otakorp is maintaining its current health requirements, but reserves the right to adjust these restrictions closer to the convention if the pandemic situation allows.
Vaccine verification (via vaccine app or physical vaccine card + Photo ID for members over 18) or a negative PCR test report will be required to pick up your badge and verification wristband at Otakon. Your badge and verification wristband will be required in all areas of the convention center for OTAKON 2022.
This year, Otakon will be using a two-factor authentication system. Otakon will be verifying vaccination status upon check-in and badge pick-up. In addition to your badge, you will receive a wristband verifying that your vaccine or PCR test has been checked.
Members must have both a valid badge and wristband to attend Otakon 2022.
The CDC defines “fully vaccinated” as:
Members who are not fully vaccinated for COVID-19 must present a negative PCR test with a sample dated after 6 AM no more than 3 days prior to picking up your badge. Antigen and rapid tests will not be accepted.
For the health and safety of all our members, we are requiring full vaccination for all eligible members as outlined above. Vaccination reinforces and strengthens immunity, and is required to attend Otakon 2022 for all eligible individuals, regardless of previous Covid status.
Yes. Although Otakorp requires all eligible individuals be vaccinated, a negative COVID-19 PCR test with a sample dated after 6 AM no more than 3 days prior to picking up your badge will be accepted.
Arriving | PCR Test Sample Date NO EARLIER THAN |
---|---|
Thursday, 3PM-10PM | Monday, July 25, 2022 6:00 AM |
Friday, 8AM-10PM | Tuesday, July 26, 2022 6:00 AM |
Saturday 8AM-10PM | Wednesday, July 27, 2022 6:00 AM |
Sunday 8AM-Noon | Thursday July 28, 2022 6:00 AM |
Otakon 2022 will accept official proof of vaccination (paper, photo of paper, or digital) issued by a government, hospital, or pharmacy that legibly shows the following necessary information to verify adherence with CDC standards for being fully vaccinated:
Children under 5 are exempt from the vaccine requirement, however children ages 2-5 must be masked at all times. Children under 2 do not need to be masked. Children over 2 must be masked at all times.
A well-fitting mask that covers your mouth and nose will be required inside all convention areas, except for areas designated by signs. We recommend N95 or KN95-style masks. If your cosplay includes a helmet, a mask must still be worn beneath your helmet. Helmets and/or headgear may need to be removed when entering the facility to verify mask compliance.
For more information on acceptable masks, please see: Use and Care of Masks | CDC
Otakorp is not subject to HIPAA regulation, and will not be recording, storing, or maintaining vaccination or exemption records.
All attendees over the age of 13 are required to have a photo ID to receive their badge and wristband. All attendees under the age of 13 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
If you are coming from outside the US, we will accept the vaccines approved in your country. If you have any questions, please contact us as soon as possible.
Those coming from or vaccinated in a foreign country will be accepted on a case-by-case basis. If in questions, please contact us as soon as possible.
Before Convention: Please use the contact us form.
At Convention: Please see member services.
If you have a concern regarding your Membership and this policy, please send us a message through our Contact Us Form using the topic “Registration Assistance”.
Make sure you have your proof of vaccination (paper, photo of paper, or digital) safely packed or saved in your mobile phone. If you are using a PCR test instead, ensure that you are not scheduling your test too early for us to accept or too late for results to be received in time for your arrival at the convention.
No. Otakon will be using a two-factor authentication system this year. That means you must have both your badge and wristband to attend.
Yes! You will need to have your vaccine or negative PCR test verified again at registration to receive a new wristband.
Yes - please contact your respective department for check-in and badge pick-up instructions.
Even with your mailed badge, you still need to verify your vaccine or negative COVID test to get your wristband onsite before entering. Additional information was already sent via email to mailed badge holders on where they will be verified for their vaccine or negative COVID test. Please check your email for this information.
Get in the pre-registration line to pick up our badge and get your vaccine/negative test verified. You will need the following items:
Obtain your badge and verification wristband to enter the con.
Get in the registration line to purchase your membership and get your vaccine/negative test verified. You will need the following items:
Obtain your badge and verification wristband to enter the con.
The WEWCC has made numerous technology updates to the facility to keep you safe, healthy and protect against COVID-19. Be sure to check out our Location page that details all the MANY technology upgrades the Center has put in place!
GBAC STARTM facility accreditation means that WEWCC venue staff and partners are implementing the highest standards for cleaning and disinfection of infectious agents like the novel coronavirus. It provides third-party validation that the facilities meet high levels of cleanliness and safety.
The Walter E. Washington Convention Center is the first GBAC STARTM accredited facility in the District and the first GBAC STARTM accredited convention center in the Mid-Atlantic/ Northeast.
We encourage all of our members to continue to stay safe, continue to take precautions (wearing a mask, social distancing, washing hands, etc.) and (if you are able) to get vaccinated.
The best way to protect yourself is to be fully vaccinated (and please continue to wash your hands frequently).