Following the news that Blue Ridge Rock Festival was attempting to sell 2024 passes prior to refunding 2023 ticket holders from last year's cancelled event, BRRF executive producer Cara Fischer gave the statement to local news outlet WDBJ7 clarifying tickets are not on sale and this issue was made worse by the festival's "outdated website".
Fischer shared the following:
Tickets for 2024 are not currently on sale and have not been for several months while we work to provide a resolution to 2023 fans.
The Festival follows the lead and direction of multiple distinguished insurance law firms and a public adjuster concerning public statements. As much as doing so has crippled us publicly, we have been informed that we have acted by the book in accordance with the event's insurance policy and anticipate a positive resolution soon. Please know that we are committed to delivering a great experience for our fans and supported in 2024 and beyond.
The Halifax County Administrator also told WDBJ7 he has no knowledge of the promotors plans for the festival in 2024, and the county has not been involved in any discussions of planning for a 2024 event as of March 13, 2024.
The article did also clarify that Blue Ridge Rock Festival has settled one of three active lawsuits, Sunbelt Rentals will be paid over $669,000 by Purpose Driven Events LLC, for not fully paying for equipment dating back to the 2022 event.
Recapping Blue Ridge Rock Festival 2023, severe weather disrupted the festival's first night, leading to event cancellations and evacuation. Attendees faced logistical issues such as parking, entry, hydration station shortages, and challenges in seeking shelter. Shuttle bus wait times were reportedly up to five hours, leading to chaotic conditions.
Complaints included insufficient hydration stations, extended wait times for water, and 12-hour traffic jams. The final two days of the festival were partially or entirely canceled due to continued severe weather threats. Attendees highlighted health and safety hazards, including piled-up garbage, insufficient bathroom and shower access, and lack of drinking water. The evacuation plan, sheltering options, and transportation also faced criticism. Staff and security reportedly quit over poor working conditions.
Following the festival, health violations were discovered, and attendees reported gastrointestinal issues. Refund issues emerged, with organizers citing insurance policy constraints and an expected settlement in the first quarter of 2024. The festival website currently offers 2024 passes, but details about the lineup and dates are yet to be revealed. The post-2023 challenges and pending refunds remain open questions.
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