THE judicial resolution dictated by him Judge Vicente Sanchisof the court of First instance n°4 of Valenciawhat thousands of festival-goers have been criticizing for years has become national news: the ban on entry with food and drinks from abroad.
The case, brought by Facua-Consumers in actionfocused on Wild Madrid Festivaldetained in the capital and who until now maintained rules that many considered abusive. But the verdict goes well beyond a single event.
What exactly did the judge say?
The decision leaves no doubt: it is unfair clauses that they impose on the user unsolicited services. In the words of the judge, “if the entry of food from outside is prohibited, in fact, one is obliged to consume it in the establishments inside the premises”, something that violates the fundamental rights of the consumer.
Also against the “cashless” bracelet
Besides food, the judge invalidated another controversial practice: impeachment three euros In “management fees” to recover the unused balance of cashless bracelets. According to the judgment, the promoter did not justify that this amount corresponded to a real management expense.
A precedent for all festivals
This is the first decision of its kind in Spainwhich opens the door to future class actions already one possible change in policies festivals like Primavera Sound, Arenal Sound or Medusa Festival, which reproduce this same system.
Wild Madrid, repeat offender
- He has already been fined for Community of Madrid with 96,000 euros for similar practices at the Madrid Brava festival.
- They were forced to use the bracelet as the only means of payment inside the enclosure.
The company behind cashless
In the big holidaysTHE cashless bracelets They are presented as a solution to rationalize consumption. But behind them there is a lucrative operation which implies income from “forgotten balances” and commissions that are not always transparent.
In the case of Madrid Salvaje, the participants had to recharge the bracelet before, but at the end of the event, they found themselves facing a wall: get your money back meant paying more.
What changes for summer 2026?
If this decision is confirmed and sets a precedent, promoters could be obliged to change your conditions access and reimbursement. This would be the end of food monopoly during mass events.
Can we come back with a tortilla sandwich and a ice water bottle see you next time independent festival without them taking it from us at the door? Legally, the way is open.
What you need to know as a consumer
- Can claim If a festival prevents you from entering with own food or drink.
- You can also report unjustified commissions to recover your balance.
- The legal process has already shown that users have the opportunity to take action.
From Facua have already announced that they will study more similar cases in festivals throughout Spain. As they say: what starts in a tent can end up in the Supreme Court.
About The Author
