Austin Officials Cancel SXSW Festival Over Coronavirus Concerns
The city of Austin cancels the massive SXSW festival for the first time in its 34-year history as a proactive measure against the coronavirus. The annual event typically draws over 400,000 visitors for technology, music, and film showcases.
The city of Austin officially cancels the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival after local leaders declare a disaster in response to the expanding coronavirus threat. The annual event, which serves as a major gathering for the technology, music, and film industries, typically draws more than 400,000 visitors to the Texas capital. SXSW organizers confirm they faithfully follow the city's directions to shut down the 2020 edition.
This cancellation marks the first time in the 34-year history of the March event that the show does not go on. Organizers express devastation over the unprecedented situation, noting that the famous mantra "the show must go on" remains deeply ingrained in their DNA. The festival was originally scheduled to run from March 13 to March 22 before the city intervened.
Austin Mayor Steve Adler and Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt issue the disaster declarations as a proactive precaution rather than a reaction to a local outbreak. Dr. Mark Escott of Austin Public Health emphasizes that there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Travis County at the time of the cancellation. The emergency declarations last for seven days and remain renewable as officials monitor the global health situation.