Hibernation Festival Faces 30% Revenue Loss from Road Closure

Organizers of the Hibernation techno music festival in Pas de la Casa expect to lose 30% of their projected revenue due to the ongoing closure of the RN-20 road. The event, a key tourist draw for the area, is still scheduled for March 20-22, with its lineup and details unchanged.

Hugo Sautarel, the festival's producer and a Pas de la Casa resident who owns the Bilbord nightclub and tour operator La Noche Voyages, described the road closure—set to last until May—as a major barrier to visitors. "It's a significant brake on spending," he said, noting that French attendees make up over 50% of the crowd, primarily from the Bordeaux and Toulouse regions. Initial estimates of 11,000 to 13,000 visitors have now dropped to around 8,000 or 9,000, as many are likely to choose alternative destinations.

The festival carries production costs of about €1 million, meaning the revenue shortfall equates to roughly €200,000 in losses. "We won't make any profit this year," Sautarel stated, emphasizing that cancellation is not an option. Doing so would harm not only the event but also local businesses already struggling from reduced tourist traffic. Late March typically marks a peak weekend for visitors in Pas de la Casa, with no other major events on the calendar.

Sautarel called for collective action to weather the downturn. Private accommodations have lowered prices, and Grandvalira ski resort is offering discounted passes. He has urged private sponsors to reduce their service fees, arguing they would prefer 75% of revenue over none. The team is intensifying marketing efforts, but Sautarel stressed the need for support from government authorities and Encamp parish. A meeting is planned for next week. "Alone, we won't overcome this blow," he said. "Everyone—us, the artists, visitors, government, parish, and private sector—must make an effort."