Telecogresca Student Festival at Risk Due to Rising Municipal Fees

Organizers warn that Barcelona City Council's new rental rates have increased costs by 66% per attendee.

Generic image of the Fòrum venue in Barcelona where Telecogresca takes place.
IA

Generic image of the Fòrum venue in Barcelona where Telecogresca takes place.

The long-running Telecogresca student festival has raised the alarm over its future in Barcelona, claiming that new municipal taxes at the Parc del Fòrum venue have made the event financially unsustainable.

Under Mayor Jaume Collboni, the city has introduced a public tender to limit noise complaints. While Telecogresca secured a spot for March 28, the new contract demands 1.5 euros per visitor plus 9% of ticket sales. Total rental costs have jumped from 30,000 to 70,000 euros.

"Barcelona wants affordable festivals for local audiences or prefers international macro-festivals?"

Telecogresca Organization · Official Statement
The festival, run by UPC volunteers since 1978, aims to keep tickets at 20 euros. Organizers argue that if the event fails, it will create a 'domino effect' affecting other university associations that rely on their logistical support and equipment.