Pocket-picking entertainment: Check out the peppery prices of food and drinks at Ultra, regular water costs 6 euros

The Ultra Europe music festival returned to Split’s Park mladeži this week, bringing with it top-tier electronic music, an endless stream of partygoers, and, traditionally, sky-high festival prices. While attendees from around the world agree that the atmosphere remains unmatched, many have been surprised by the steep pricing listed at numerous food and drink stands within the park. A standard half-liter bottle of still water costs six euros, while a half-liter beer or energy drink runs seven euros. Ultra Europe has once again transformed Split into the global epicenter of electronic music, drawing tens of thousands of fans of the genre. However, enjoying the high-quality production and sets from some of the world's most renowned DJs comes at a considerable cost. An average evening of partying can easily approach 200 euros, and sometimes exceed that figure. The bulk of the festival budget goes toward entry tickets. A single-day general admission ticket starts at 129 euros, with three-day passes beginning at 259 euros. When additional fees for processing and taxes, along with expenses for food and drinks inside the Park mladeži, are added, the total quickly climbs. The pinnacle of luxury is offered through the exclusive “VIP Ultra” experience, which requires a minimum daily expenditure of 269 euros or 519 euros for the entire weekend. Organizers have considered local audiences, offering more affordable single-day tickets for Croatian and Serbian citizens. For example, domestic visitors could attend the final day of the festival for just 69 euros. Thirsty revelers must dig deep into their pockets, as even a simple half-liter bottle of non-carbonated water costs six euros, a price equal to carbonated mineral or vitamin water. If they opt for a half-liter beer or an energy drink, they will pay seven euros. However, true luxury hidden among the bars includes cocktails. Popular classics such as Mojito, Cuba Libre, Moscow Mule, or Long Island Iced Tea in a 0.4-liter glass cost 22 euros, while a liter version of the favorite cocktail would require a staggering 42 euros, according to Dalmacija Danas. More accessible, yet still two-digit options include ready-made alcoholic drinks in cans. Popular choices like Pelin tonic or various Skinny cocktails are sold at stands for 12 euros each. Even traditional homemade spirits are priced significantly. A portion of rakia, slivovitz, cherry brandy, and other traditional liqueurs costs seven euros. Hungry revelers must also reach deeper into their pockets. A popular kebab wrap costs 17 euros (16 euros for the bowl version), while a large “Monster” portion costs 20 euros. Prices for stuffed potatoes range from 16 euros for pulled pork and chili con carne options up to 18 euros for those filled with chicken.