I go to Whitby mainly for the music sessions, attend maybe half a dozen workshops and one concert, but buy a season ticket because if the festival wasn't there, the sessions wouldn't be.   I get my money's worth of enjoyment and more.

On the other hand, I can understand why it makes sense to other people not to buy tickets if they're not going to official activities, and I think the festival is much more vibrant because those people are there, so am glad they attend.    There's room for all opinions I think.

Joy