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Festivalgoers who attended the Werchter Boutique festival in Belgium on July 12, 2024, were offered up to 25 euros in compensation after a scheduled performance by pop star Katy Perry was canceled due to severe weather, according to multiple local media reports. The event, held in the village of Werchter, faced disruptions when sudden storms forced the cancellation of Perry’s headline act, prompting organizers to announce a refund policy for affected attendees.
The decision to cancel Perry’s performance came after the festival’s organizers, Werchter Boutique, confirmed that heavy rainfall and strong winds made it unsafe to proceed with the scheduled set. “The safety of our attendees and artists is our top priority,” a spokesperson for the festival stated in a press release. “While we regret the inconvenience, we are working to ensure all affected guests receive appropriate compensation.”
Under the compensation scheme, attendees who purchased general admission tickets for the day were eligible to receive a refund of up to 25 euros, according to reports from local outlets such as De Morgen and VRT. The refund process, however, was described as limited in scope, with officials emphasizing that the compensation was not a full refund but a gesture of goodwill. “This is not a full reimbursement, but a way to acknowledge the disappointment of our fans,” the spokesperson added.
Severe Weather Disrupts Festival Operations
The cancellation of Perry’s performance was the most high-profile disruption caused by the severe weather, which also impacted other acts on the festival’s lineup. Organizers reported that multiple stages were temporarily closed due to flooding, and some performances were rescheduled to later in the weekend. “The weather conditions were beyond our control,” the spokesperson said. “We are grateful for the understanding of our attendees and the support of our partners in managing the situation.”
Local authorities in the province of Flemish Brabant confirmed that the storms, which began on the afternoon of July 12, led to widespread flooding in several areas.
Compensation Process and Attendee Reactions
The refund policy was announced via the festival’s official website and social media channels, with instructions for attendees to submit claims through an online form. According to the Werchter Boutique website, the process required proof of attendance, such as a ticket receipt or