The Wacken Open Air had to be canceled for two years due to the corona pandemic. Now it’s that time again: The metal event will take place from August 4th to 8th. The organizers used the time to expand the festival in many ways.
Around 75,000 metal fans are expected in Wacken this year. Co-founder Thomas Jensen is looking forward to the new start. “Everyone involved, whether fans, bands or crews, have had a long dry spell. That’s why we’re all the more excited this year to be able to return to the Holy Ground and celebrate the party of the year,” he explains.
Headliners include Slipknot, Judas Priest, In Extremo, New Model Army, Rose Tattoo, Lacuna Coil, Gwar, As I Lay Dying and Lordi. Some cancellations have already been announced. For example, Limp Bizkit can’t perform due to Fred Durst’s (vocals) health issues. Till Lindemann also had to resign.
Wacken Wednesday, live stream and cashless payment
Actually, Lindemann was planned for the newly introduced additional day, “Wacken Wednesday” on August 3rd. In order to be able to be there on the additional day, festival visitors need a limited additional ticket. This gives them unrestricted access to a “fat bonus program” consisting of Avantasia, Gloryhammer and Brothers of Metal, among others.
Telekom is also broadcasting this year’s Wacken Open Air via MagentaTV free of charge via MagentaMusik – “Wacken Wednesday” and the “Original Festival” will be streamed. Spectators can watch the concerts taking place on the five stages from the comfort of their own home. Singer Attila Dorn of the band Powerwolf promises a unique experience. “We missed you. Let’s celebrate another furious metal fair together! It’s going to be loud, big and wild!” he says.
In addition, cashless payment will be possible at the festival – this has not been the case to date. Transactions, such as at the food or drink stands, can now be made with a chip integrated into the festival wristband. The chip can be topped up online before the start of the festival. The advantage: the waiting times are reduced and the money can no longer be lost.