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Wacken Open Air Closes With Smooth Departures and 2026 Lineup Preview

With record attendance, organizers have launched early-bird ticket sales ahead of the festival’s 35th anniversary.

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Overview

  • The 34th edition sold out its 85,000-ticket capacity, with Guns N’ Roses delivering the festival’s longest headliner set and a drone tribute honoring Ozzy Osbourne.
  • Organizers reinforced mud-soaked grounds with over 3,000 cubic meters of wood chips to keep the site operational despite heavy rain.
  • Police recorded 68 criminal incidents, down from 86 in 2024, while the rescue service treated 2,800 attendees and hospitalized 150, marking a 10–15% decline in medical calls.
  • As fans began their departure—with 30 tractors staged to assist but encouraged to self-manage—the majority had cleared the camping areas by Sunday morning, easing traffic congestion.
  • With a strong community spirit credited for smooth logistics, organizers unveiled the first 35 acts for next year’s 35th anniversary and began early-bird sales, prompting mixed fan reactions.