Weston-super-Mare Summer Fest at the Beach is gearing up to be a vibrant celebration, but festival-goers should brace themselves for some steep drink prices. The festival's bar tariff reveals a range of beverages, from the cheapest pint to the most expensive 'mix and match deal'.
One thing that immediately stands out is the cost of pints. While Glastonbury Festival offered its cheapest pint at £6.50, Weston's Summer Fest at the Beach is charging £6.75 for a variety of beers and ciders. This includes popular brands like Madri, Coors, Atlantic IPA, Thatchers Gold, Thatchers Haze, Thatchers Blood Orange, and Thatchers Apple and Blackcurrant, all served in cans. Interestingly, the Thatchers Blood Orange and Apple and Blackcurrant flavors are unique to this festival.
Alcohol-free pints are also available, with Thatchers Zero and Madri Zero costing £5.75 each, providing a budget-friendly option for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages. However, these prices are still higher than what can be found at other festivals.
Moving up the price ladder, festival-goers can indulge in a mix of wine and prosecco cans for a staggering £45. The most expensive options on the wine list are the 'Amplified Sauvignon Blanc' and 'Amplified Rose', both priced at £32 each. This highlights a trend of premiumization in festival drink prices.
Spirits and mixers are also not cheap, with all spirit and mixer drinks priced at £8.50 each. A vodka and Red Bull costs £10.50 for a single and £13.50 for a double, while soft drinks like water, sodas, and Red Bull energy drinks are also priced at a premium.
The festival's drink prices raise a deeper question about the accessibility of festivals for different socioeconomic groups. While the festival aims to provide a diverse range of beverages, the high prices may deter those on a tighter budget. It's worth considering whether there are ways to make festivals more inclusive without compromising the quality of the experience.
In conclusion, Weston-super-Mare Summer Fest at the Beach offers a variety of drinks, but the prices are a significant factor to consider for festival-goers. The high costs of pints, wine, and spirits may impact the overall festival experience, and it's essential to plan and budget accordingly. Personally, I think that while the festival aims to cater to a wide audience, the drink prices could be more accessible to ensure a more inclusive and enjoyable event for all.
