There were so many interesting dynamics that came out of the “COVID Period.” One of which was the death knell of a few well-known Beer Festivals and a decline in attendance overall. It seemed to me there were three main factors causing this impact. First, those festivals that had a backup of capital survived. Festivals on a shoestring budget didn’t make it. Secondly, there was also the issue of deciding when to restart the festival. Finding momentum again after a pause was difficult. Enticing people to return was difficult, too. Folks were avoiding crowds. They were finding it easier to enjoy a brew at home. Some preferred their local pub or brewery. Finally, the sky-rocketing cost of travel is having an impact: on both the vendors and the attendees.
One of my favorite beer festivals was the Big Beers, Belgians, and Barley Wines Festival in Breckenridge, Colorado. It attracted many of the big name Craft Brewers. It generated a lot of energy in both the Home Brew and Professional circles. It was just down-right a blast! I was sad to see it get canceled.
I also saw this year where the Great American Beer Festival was selling tickets right up until the event began. Just a few short years ago, if you didn’t get your tickets in the first couple of days, too bad! I also saw that the number of participating breweries went from around 800 to 600 (or so). It was still well attended and (as usual) an excellent event. However, it seems times are changing.
Of course, I’m really only referencing North American festivals … it appears to me that the Large World-wide Beer Festivals are still going strong! Maybe it’s just the trend here. It’s sad to see the enthusiasm for and the enjoyment of these festivals in decline.
The antidote for this is to find a couple of friends. Buy some tickets and go have some fun at your local festival! There are still plenty out there and they are ready to welcome you back with open arms. You owe it to yourself and to them to make the sacrifice and drink good beer!
Stumblingpiper
Simply Beer 
Not been to many beer festivals lately myself to be fair but agree that even in the UK many have closed or it is noticeably quieter. Going to try and get to a couple this year hopefully!!
My closest one is called the “Fest of Ale” (Penticton, British Columbia). The attendance was up this year, but the number of breweries participating was down. It was still a good time … just a different vibe than in the past. I’ll see what others come my way! :)