Festival fans will have only 72 hours next month to acquire Wonderfruit tickets next month, at least before they’re left to the mercy of scalpers and Viagogo.
Festival organizers announced early this evening that the 72-hour window, meant to limit attendance – though simply capping tickets sales would do the same – will begin at 6pm on June 14 and end 6pm on June 17.
For THB8,900 (US$260).
The FOMO is running even hotter and heavier than last year, when limited ticket sale periods began at THB6,000 and increased every 24 hours by THB500. The festival said “limited” tickets were sold at the door for THB15,000.
Announced via Instagram, the new price high drew a quick backlash from people complaining that the increase came without word of a notable lineup and apparent lack of weekend-only tickets. For 2023, the festival tacked on an additional day to extend the festivities to five days, but most attendees show up Friday through Sunday.
“Wonderflation,” the top-ranked comment read.
Others complained about the cynical marketing approach.
“Wonderfruit must have hired some marketing people that used to sell shitcoins. ONE DAY ONLY! EXXCLUUUUSSiVEEEEE!!!!!”
Still, the festival is held in high regard by many for creating an expansive playground of music, visuals, and fun to enjoy.
“[I] love you guys at wonderfruit, sending love from Singapore,” one fan wrote. “You changed my life and saved my life. Looking forward.”
A number of people asked for more transparency regarding how attendance would be capped and what measures would be taken to improve the experience, especially in regard to transportation.
After two attendees died at last year’s festival, organizers have declined to explain how they would address complaints about its safety and emergency preparedness.
Like last year’s event, the large music and lifestyle fest will take place mid-December at Pattaya’s Siam Country Club. This year, the festival will run five days instead of four, and tickets will only go on sale for 72 hours. While details are scant, organizers announced that they have spent time to “replenish, regenerate, and grow.”
