Splendour in the Grass a success despite ticket sales dip on last year

Splendour in the Grass rolled into its second day near Byron Bay, with the Barbie movie clearly influencing outfit choices.

One of Australia’s biggest musical festivals is in full swing, with a sea of pink seemingly taking over New South Wales’ North Byron Parklands.

Visibly less muddy than previous years, Splendour in the Grass 2023 is being headlined by the likes of pop superstar Lizzo and Australia’s own DJ and producer Flume.

And the release of the Barbie movie appears to have had an influence on attendees, with pink the standout colour among outfits.

Toni and Renee Simpson at Splendour on Saturday, where pink was a major theme among festival outfits. Picture: Danielle Smith /NCA Newswire

Ruby McLean and Jasmine Hohnke were among those enjoying the day out. Picture: Danielle Smith /NCA Newswire

Last year’s aptly nicknamed ‘Splendour in the Mud’ oversaw a disease outbreak, flooding of campsites, transport mayhem, and the cancellation of an entire day of music.

Concertgoers seemingly held a grudge this year, with ticket sales down 30 per cent.

Days before the event around 35,000 tickets had been sold — compared to 50,000 last year.

Lizzo and Flume were among the headlining acts this year. Danielle Smith /NCA Newswire

Picture: Dannielle Smith /NCA Newswire

Splendour co-producer Jessica Ducrou said stilted sales were likely a reflection of the current cost of living crisis, telling the ABC the numbers were “a reflection of the current economy”.

“We are seeing a lot of people buying single-day tickets rather than three days and that is very much a reflection on the budget,” she said.

“No doubt last year’s experiences have impacted on sales as well.”

Ticket sales were reportedly down about 30 per cent on last year. Danielle Smith /NCA Newswire

BIG WETT also channelling the Barbie movie on day two of the three day festival. Picture: Supplied / Jade Ferguson

The three-day festival kicked off with a surprising sight, after Lizzo paused her Friday night set to sign a fan’s bottom.

The singer spotted the sign in the crowd which read ‘Lizzo, can you sign my arse and I’ll get it tattooed’.

“All right, it’s time to sign your arse,” the superstar said, and promptly obliged.

Originally published as Splendour in the Grass a success despite ticket sales dip on last year