TICKETS to the embattled Woodstock 50 festival will now be free, according to the operator of the site where it is due to take place.

A spokesperson for the Merriweather Post Pavillion told Pitchfork: “That was the last thing we heard too.

“We’re still waiting to hear who is playing, but that’s not our job. They do still have a venue if they have a show.”

TMZ also reports that the event is now being billed as a benefit concert, during which attendees are encouraged to donate to charity.

Woodstock 50, which was announced as a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the landmark Woodstock Music & Art Fair held Aug. 15-17, 1969 in Bethel, New York, has faced numerous setbacks including investors who dropped out, the loss of their original venue, and reports of several of its major performers pulling out.

According to a recent report by Billboard, Woodstock 50 organizers have formally released all artists scheduled to play from their contracts after moving from the original site.

Earlier this week, Jay-Z, Dead & Company, and John Fogerty reportedly pulled out of the event.

Woodstock 50 organizers have repeatedly insisted that the festival will proceed on its scheduled dates of Aug. 16-18.

(SD-Agencies)