Ask HN: Competition played questionable tactics. What to do?

I was due to organise an event in the area. I set the date for 26th June. Began my marketing, and then wondered why no sales were working, even though i've used similar techniques fine before.

I sought some additional specialist advice, implemented the advice and still had no luck.

Today I found out that the competition (I didn't even know they existed), setup an emergency event on my original event date, at 1/3rd the price, giving a lot more content and goodies away.

No wonder no one signed up for mine. I'm new to the area and trying to build up some recognition. I can't afford to do the event for free.

What would the people of HN do?