New Orleans Jazz Fest 2020 Canceled Due to Coronavirus Pandemic
UPDATE: Organizers of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival canceled the 2020 fest Thursday due to the coronavirus pandemic, a month after initially postponing this year’s festival until the fall. “It takes something truly momentous to interrupt a 50-year New Orleans tradition as special at the Festival, but we feel strongly that the most prudent course right now is to allow more time for the situation to stabilize,” organizers said in a statement. The 2021 Jazz Fest will take place April 22nd to May 2nd. “Until then, be safe!”
— New Orleans JazzFest (@jazzfest) April 16, 2020
The annual New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. The festival was originally scheduled for April 23rd through April 26th and April 30th through May 3rd, but it will now take place in the fall, organizers said on Tuesday. The new autumn dates have not been announced.
At the direction of city officials, organizers made the decision in response to COVID-19. “The health and safety of the community, our musicians, festival fans, participants, sponsors and staff are paramount,” organizers said in a statement. “And we urge everyone to follow the guidelines and protocols put forth by public health officials.”
The 2020 event lineup included the Who, Foo Fighters, Dead & Company, Stevie Nicks, Lizzo, Lionel Richie, the Black Crowes, Wu-Tang Clan featuring the Soul Rebels, Brandi Carlisle, the Avett Brothers, Elvis Costello & the Imposters and Erykah Badu, among many others. It is unclear if the lineup will remain the same for the rescheduled fall dates. Tickets and VIP packages that have already been purchased will be honored for the rescheduled fall dates, according to NOLA.com. Organizers have not yet announced information regarding refunds.
This is the first time in its 50-year history that the spring festival has been forced to fully reschedule the event.
— New Orleans JazzFest (@jazzfest) March 17, 2020