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Festival cancels headline acts as severe weather strikes Barcelona
Primavera Sound organisers called off performances by Massive Attack, Doja Cat, and Bad Gyal on Thursday night due to safety concerns caused by heavy rain and winds reaching 80 km/h (50 mph). Earlier in the day, sets by Alex G and Mac DeMarco were also scrapped under a yellow weather warning.
Organisers acknowledge frustration but cite safety protocols
In a statement released on Friday, the festival said it "understands and shares the frustration and disappointment of the audience." Officials explained that gusty conditions made it impossible for Mac DeMarco's team to set up in time, while persistent rain forced the cancellation of Alex G's performance.
Attempts to stage late-night shows by Massive Attack, Doja Cat, and Bad Gyal were abandoned after organisers concluded they could not guarantee the safety of attendees or performers. The festival confirmed no serious incidents occurred and insisted all safety protocols were followed.
Refunds for Thursday's tickets will be processed, with details to be announced on Monday.
Attendees criticise lack of real-time updates
Festivalgoers told BBC Newsbeat that while organisers had warned of potential rain, communication during the event was poor. Alex Milsom, a 28-year-old from London, said he had "no idea what was going on" amid widespread rumours and unofficial updates.
"When you don't know what's happening, you breed disinformation. Group chats and Instagram comments were the only way I found out what was going on."
Alex Milsom, festivalgoer
Milsom, who works in communications, said he only learned of Doja Cat's cancellation after she went live on Instagram, expressing her disappointment. He added that notifications on the festival app labelled "programme update" provided no further explanation.
Lauren Cashell, a 27-year-old from County Clare, Ireland, said she and her friends stood in the rain for seven hours without seeing any music. "It felt like a collective trauma bond moment," she said, comparing the experience to Irish festivals with better contingency plans.
"Everyone was shocked at how it was handled. There's going to be a lot of making up to do."
Lauren Cashell, festivalgoer
Festival continues with second-day lineup
Despite the setbacks, Primavera Sound is proceeding with its Friday schedule, featuring performances by The Cure, Addison Rae, and PinkPantheress. Organisers have not indicated whether additional weather-related disruptions are expected.
