Wannasee Festival responds to criticism following Penrith event

The live music event which showcases some of the best tribute acts from across the country held at Hutton in the Forest, in late August, came under fire for 'disgraceful' conditions including long queues, 'shambolic' toilets and cars being pulled from the mud by tractors.

In a post on social media, organisers explained the challenges faced and the attempts to address criticism.

High levels of rainfall, which resulted in a muddy event area, were cited as a major setback for this year's festival. 

Ticket pricing was another area of discontent among festival-goers, with one attendee paying more than £400 for VIP glamping tickets after travelling to the festival with his eight-year-old daughter.

The organisers shared that ticket costs have indeed been increased, but were below the percentage rise that the logistics costs of running the festival have undergone in the past two years.

They also conceded that not all promises concerning the VIP Camping and VIP Arena could be met due to last-minute supply issues, and that the festival could have done better to improve accessibility.

The Wannasee group has announced plans to continue the festival in Penrith, despite a second year of financial loss.

To address complaints, plans for next year include reducing event capacity, 'clamping down on bad behaviour', marking out vehicle pitches, limiting noise from fairground rides, and even potentially hiking up ticket prices for later purchases, to allow for substantial event investment.

"Whilst we know that the above explanation will not be accepted by everyone, this is a transparent and honest assessment of an event that has been enjoyed by so many people over the years and loved by all the bands that play there.

"After several tough conversations amongst the team with strong arguments for and against, we have eventually decided to return to Penrith for 2024 and will be bringing details tomorrow," they said.