All large-scale public gatherings in Germany have been banned through at least August 31, which is leaving the rock world short on festivals.
Expect the unexpected. You have no doubt heard that phrase countless times throughout your life, but never has it been more true than right now. As the world attempts to understand and control the spread of COVID-19 there is no way to know what will happen next. Today’s hope can quickly disappear with tomorrow’s breaking news, but what matters most is that we never forget that this time will pass.
Today, the world of rock and metal took a major hit in the name of public safety. Germany’s chancellor, Angela Merkel, announced a plan to begin gradually reopening the country’s economy starting next week. Even in spite of the ambitious timeline she laid out, large-scale public gatherings like concerts and sporting events will remain banned through at least August 31, which renders festivals not just unlikely and dangerous for public health but illegal.
That news means arguably every major European rock festival will not happen in 2020, including Wacken Open Air, Rock Am Ring, Rock Im Park, and Bang Your Head. These events typically bring together well over 50,000 fans (and in some cases many more). Without them, jobs, merch sales, concessions, and performance fees will be depleted.
Writing to fans about the announcement, the organizers of Wacken shared:
Dear Metalheads,
yesterday, the German government decided that due to the Coronavirus pandemic, no mass gatherings will be allowed until August, 31st 2020. We are facing an unprecented situation in our 30 years: It is with heavy hearts that we have to announce that there will be no Wacken Open Air this year.
Our whole team has been working intensively on the festival these last months and the more all of us are bitterly disappointed that we are not allowed to celebrate a Wacken Open Air with you. This administrative order affects us heavily and we will need some time to process the bad news.
Nevertheless, we support the decision of the German government in this difficult situation for the whole world. Your health and safety have always been and always will be our top priority. We as promoters are therefore bound to take an even greater responsibility and have to follow the instructions of the experts.
Concerning Wacken Open Air 2021 and options for your already bought tickets we will reach out to you asap but ask for a little bit of patience whilst we work through this. We thank you for your trust during times which are unparalleled for all of us.
Stay healthy – In Metal We Trust!
Your W:O:A Team
The news of these cancellations is upsetting, but it’s become the new normal for music fans. Just a month ago, many believed live music would return in May. This week, festivals for July and August are being canceled, as well as several tours.
Nobody knows when concerts will resume. Many believe club gigs could return as early as mid-summer, but large scale events may have to wait until 2021. We are keeping an eye on this developing story to bring you as much information as possible in the weeks and months ahead. Follow Haulix on Facebook and Twitter for more information.
