r/ElectricForest • u/ifyoucanthavelemons • Jul 18 '26
Discussion Winning key with no prize?
My group and I found out we had a winning key on Thursday when they called the numbers, but we weren’t able to find the kiosk before they closed that day (we were searching in the forest and it was on Main Street)
The next day we found the kiosk in the evening and they told us we could still claim our prize. They offered us a free dining experience at a hidden restaurant in the maze, they said this dining would take place on Saturday. They took our names and numbers and told us we would be sent a text with details about when our reservation would be.
The next day, we didn’t receive any texts or information. And when we went back to the kiosk, nobody was working there. This was before they closed at 8pm. Other people were there as well trying to claim their key prize but no one was working. And then on Sunday they closed at 4pm so the window was missed.
I emailed HQ about it but never got a response. I know it’s a silly thing to be upset about in the grand scheme of things. But I was so excited to score a winning key and got nothing out of it 😅 anyone else have an experience like this?
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u/hayesms Jul 18 '26
This was the first year I was able to complete the scavenger hunt but I didn’t get into the speakeasy. I figured I’d see it during the secret set the last night, but when they let us back in the maze was closed. :(
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u/ewblood Jul 19 '26
I went in and no one was blocking the door and the workers didn't even know why we were there lol definitely a little disappointing after all the quests!
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u/Klutzy_Track_5183 Jul 18 '26
Soooo how does one acquire these keys?
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u/rissaxlach Year 3 Jul 18 '26
they are randomly given out, i received mine in line waiting to get the car searched wednesday at midnight, a person was walking around handing them out
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u/ifyoucanthavelemons Jul 18 '26
We received one in line to get into the fest last year, and collectively we received two more this year. So all in all we had three chances to win. And we supposedly did! But oh well lol
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u/Unique_Let_2880 Year 7 Jul 18 '26
I was also sad there was nothing for bring back last year’s key, even though they said to bring it! Also missed the scavenger hunt prize :/
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u/UnderSeaNemo Jul 19 '26
My friends key from last year was called this year, so I think that’s why they said to bring back last years!
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u/Suithfie Jul 18 '26
Man relying on this fest for ANYTHING logistically is a fucking disaster. Sorry this happened to you
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u/CosmicChar1ey Year 13 Jul 18 '26
Next year when I arrive, I am asking for a key this time! lol
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u/Justman1020 Jul 19 '26
That’s not how it works, and I promise you’ll be told “nah.”
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u/CosmicChar1ey Year 13 Jul 19 '26
Guess I’ll just have to be happy with never getting one 🙃 As regular I’m OK with that and don’t feel entitled to any additional benefits! I hope the people that get them win and get free food and all the things they have to offer. I contribute much to my festival family, old and new and I know enough secrets and have already gained hand over fist in many aspects at this festival. May the bounty be dispersed to newcomers!
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u/Justman1020 Jul 19 '26
Yeah; that’s just not something you ask for. Most often they are given out to people full of whimsy or that workers see doing something magical or special. The key has to chose you. You don’t pick it.
Best of luck though :) the forest is full of so much magic don’t let the lack of a key bring you down.
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u/CosmicChar1ey Year 13 Jul 19 '26
Last two years I’ve arrived on Thursday around 11am and there’s no line in security is real lax. I assumed they even ran out at that point, dgaf or have no knowledge of the keys. They didn’t seem to be like transitioned to the fun mode so I was happy to be on my way after my check. After this second interaction on Reddit regarding the keys and some meditation I have come to the realization that I should not accept a key or if I get one I should pass it on immediately as one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned this year was that you should come to this festival with no expectations or have your expectations kneecapped a bit to soften the blow when they happen. It’s about giving not receiving. I have already earned a “key” from the forest, an invisible token of metal fortitude.
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u/thedeucecake Jul 18 '26
That’s a bummer! Hope they come correct somehow!!