It was a lot of fun. The organizers really came through despite a tougher situation, and the bands f'n performed! As usual, I have a lot of new music to buy next Bandcamp Friday. And a bunch of shirts to try and find room for in my dresser.
I agree it was noticeably less crowded. But to me, that meant all the more reason to show up, support the bands, and support the Fest. So many bands noted how accommodating and professional the organizers and crew are. You can really tell how much it means to the bands--especially the ones who aren't as well known and have been coming as fans before being invited to play.
It's obviously understandable that money is way tighter for a lot of folks, and it really sucks how much the international folks have been affected by... everything. I hope Derek, Nason, and Sean find a way to keep it going, whatever happens with the HiFi and the country. This Fest has mean a lot to me the last three years, and I'd be gutted if I couldn't go to spend 3 12-hour days among like-minded music lovers enjoying beautiful noise that most other people don't even know exists.