A new windstorm threat, Storm Dennis, looms for Europe just days after deadly Storm Ciara triggered widespread travel disruptions from the United Kingdom to Germany. As a result of this forecast, Wacken Winter Nights released the following statement yesterday evening:
“The stormy weather in Germany persists and now effects the Wacken Winter Nights, which are scheduled to take place this weekend. Continuing strong gusts of wind cause delays in the build-up while meteorologists expect the situation to become even worse during the upcoming weekend. After close consultation with the responsible authorities, the festival promoters decided to cancel the upcoming event because the safety of fans, staff, bands, and all other parties involved is the most important criterion. Meaning: The fourth edition of the Winter Festival in Wacken will not take place until February 2021.”
“It is with the greatest regret that we have been forced to cancel this year’s Wacken Winter Nights due to the extraordinary weather conditions with persistent extreme winds”, explains Helge Rudolph, authorised representative of Full Entertainment GmbH. “We understand and share the huge disappointment of visitors and artists. Despite the unfavorable circumstances, our team has been working day and night in order to make the festival happen and provide the fans with a great experience. However, the safety of all those present is always our biggest priority so we feel compelled to take this step.“
The winter storm with extreme gusts of wind has been holding up on site construction since the weekend. Especially building up the main stage and the tent cannot be continued in the foreseeable future without endangering the safety of the crew. This is further aggravated by the fact that another serious storm is expected for Saturday evening.
Apart from these sad news for everbody involved, there are also good news: Tickets already purchased in advance will remain valid for the next Wacken Winter Nights, which are expected to take place from February 19th to 21st, 2021.
As an additional compensation, ticket holders are invited by the festival promoters (in cooperation with Förde Show Concept) to attend the Felsenburg Festival 2020 in the Kalkberg Arena in Bad Segeberg on May 2nd free of charge. There medieval rock stalwarts Saltatio Mortis and Feuerschwanz will perform among others.
Ticket buyers will receive information about the procedure shortly. Those, who don’t want to attend the Wacken Winter Nights 2021 and the Felsenburg Festival 2020, can return their tickets at the respective ticket agencies.
