There’s been a trend of eviscerating scam, money-grubbing events online . . . stuff like the Fyre Festival, and whatever that “Willy Wonka” thing was supposed to be.  But THIS seems like a stretch.

There’s a small business called Dirt Dog, and a location in Vegas was holding a “Bluey” event last weekend.  It was meant to be a fun family day, with costumed characters . . . face painting . . . games . . . and special treats.

It was free, and open to the public.  They were expecting a few dozen regulars and locals . . . but it went VIRAL and THOUSANDS of people showed up.

They weren’t prepared for that, so there were long lines out front . . . they struggled with capacity issues inside . . . the special “Bluey” treats were gobbled up . . .  and there weren’t enough games and swag for all the kids.

On top of that, this was not an official “Bluey” event . . . obviously . . . so the costumes were just cheap stuff from Amazon, and there weren’t professional face-painters.  Basically, it was like a kid’s birthday party . . . not Disneyland.

Again, it was FREE, and at a hot dog eatery . . . but parents were INCENSED.

One mother told local news, “The kids were distraught . . . upset, crying in their parents’ shoulders.  How could you do that to little kids?  It was a very upsetting moment to see so many kids, especially my daughter, really upset.”

Some complained that it ruined their kid’s day, and others were livid that they “drove an hour to see a grown man in PJs.”

The restaurant apologized on social media, saying, “We’re truly sorry this event wasn’t to standard.”  They admitted they were overwhelmed . . . and said that they underestimated the power of “Bluey”.

Other parents defended them, saying, “It’s a free event.  It’s a risk you take.”  Another said, “My son loved it.  Thank you for hosting.”  (Uproxx)  (Here’s the local news story on the event.)

(Maybe I’m old-school . . . but was anyone WRONGED here?  These parents are showing their kids that it’s okay to throw a tantrum because it wasn’t as elaborate as they envisioned.  Kids take their cues from adults.)

(Instead, the kids could’ve learned, “Sometimes things don’t turn out the way we want, and that’s okay.  Be grateful that there are people organizing free fun . . . and be grateful that you have adults who take you.”  Also, in general, you should set modest, appropriate expectations.)