Despite last week confirming that it would go ahead, Bluesfest has today announced that its 2020 event will be cancelled.
The move comes after the Australian Government announced the cancellation of all gatherings of more than 500 people starting from today (Monday, March 16). The event was set to take place between April 9-13 in Byron Bay.
Despite wanting to go on, Bluesfest have been forced to cancel their 2020 edition as national coronavirus measures tighten.
“It is obvious we will not be on this Easter. We are heartbroken as we believe we were presenting one of the best ever bills of talent for you,” Festival Director Peter Noble described in a statement.
“I was in discussions right through last week with every headliner,” he continued. “They all said they’re coming as long as nothing occurred to prevent them from doing so. That is the level of commitment that our artists have. And I am proud of that.”
This year’s bill featured the likes of Crowded House, Dave Matthews Band, Patti Smith, and many more.
“I must now thank every one of you for supporting us. The emails and posts are deeply appreciated at this time. We are working through how to move forwards and to give you details. I thank you for allowing us enough time to get everything in place for the best possible outcome for everyone.”
This marks the first time in thirty years that the legendary event has been cancelled. The announcement follows in the path of other festivals in Australia and worldwide which have been forced to cancel in the wake of the virus.
