Wacken Open Air halts entry due to weather and poor festival grounds environment

Due to bad weather and muddy grounds at the "Holy Ground" the Wacken Open Air Festival has closed entry to the festival and urges those who are on their way to attend to turn around or not begin their trip altogether. 

The event was scheduled to run the weekend of August 2nd to the 5th and included such acts as Iron Maiden, Megadeth, Heaven Shall Burn, Biohazard, Dark Tranquility, and more.

A statement posted to the festival's website read: 

All journeys to Wacken Open Air with motor vehicles of all kinds must be stopped with immediate effect.

Due to the ongoing difficult weather situation, and with the additional amount of rain in the last 24 hours, the resulting condition of the camping areas, event areas and access roads unfortunately means that no more motor vehicles can enter the camping area, without risking the safety and security of those on site.

Therefore, all metalheads in motor vehicles of all kinds are urged to cancel their trip to Wacken if already en route, or not to start at all. This applies until the end of the festival.

For those vehicles that are already currently in the immediate vicinity of the festival at the "Holy Ground", we continue to make every effort to get you on site. We are currently clarifying further information on how to handle your tickets and will announce it as soon as possible.

We are very sad to have to make this difficult decision - for the first time in the history of W:O:A

Additionally, promoter Thomas Jensen shared the following video update: