According to yesterday’s decision by the federal German government all major events in Germany are banned until 31 August 2020 to prevent further spreading of the corona pandemic. This means that this year’s edition of the Wacken Open Air, which has been scheduled to the period from July 30th to the 1st of August 2020, will not take place.

Holger Hübner explains: “We are facing an unprecedented situation and for the first time in thirty years we have to announce with a heavy heart that unfortunately there cannot be a Wacken Open Air this year”, says the festival co-founder. “Our whole team has been working intensively on the festival these last months and all of us are bitterly disappointed that we are not allowed to celebrate a Wacken Open Air together with our visitors and the bands this year.”

His fellow co-founder Thomas Jensen adds: “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. The health and safety of all visitors, artists, employees, tradesmen, security and rescue services, public authorities and all other participants has always been our highest priority. We as promoters are therefore bound to take an even greater responsibility and have to follow the instructions of the experts.”

With regard to all other open questions such as W:O:A 2021 and the options concerning the already purchased tickets, Festival organisers will return with another statement as soon as possible and kindly ask for a little patience.

The promoters of the Wacken Open Air would like to give their heartfelt thanks for the trust received in this unprecedented situation for everyone involved.