The first of the big city festival and event cancellations were announced this morning. Although many of the BIG festivals and events, including Blues and Gospel Fest, have been cancelled there is still some hope that smaller fests may be held.
In today’s press release, the City said, “It is with regret, the City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) today announced the cancellation of four beloved annual events and what would have been a new citywide celebration of music, due to the COVID-19 crisis.”
The following city events have been cancelled:
The Chicago Memorial Day Parade (May 23)
The Wreath Laying Ceremony (May 23)
The 5th Annual Chicago House Music Conference & Festival (May 21–24)
The 35th Chicago Gospel Music Festival (May 27–30),
The 37th Annual Chicago Blues Festival (June 5–7).
The Chicago In Tune (May 21–June 7)
Neighborhood Festivals
Neighborhood Festivals that are run separate from the city have not as yet announced any cancellations as they await updates to Gov. Pritzker’s Shelter in Place orders that currently go through April 30.
Farmers Markets
City-run farmers markets will not open until sometime after May 15.
Other closures continue until further notice
- The City is not issuing special event or film permits through May 15. For updates, click here.
- The Lakefront remains closed
- Chicago’s Riverwalk and all businesses on the Riverwalk will remain closed to the public
- Millennium Park remains closed
- The Chicago Cultural Center remains closed
July, August and September Festivals & Events
The city has not announced any closures for July, August and September. If any cancellations are to take place, they promise to give two months notice.
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Chicago Festivals