After a series of unfortunate announcements over the last two weeks, Miami Music Week and all related events have been canceled or postponed amidst fears of Coronavirus, or COVID-19. By now, this news may not come as a shock after several other major events in the electronic music industry have been canceled or postponed starting with Ultra Music Festival, Winter Music Conference, Coachella, Beyond Wonderland, and many others. Along with those events, all nightclubs and venues have closed their doors until further notice.
Due to city ordinances throughout the country, many locations have been impacted and have been ordered to suspend all events that involve crowds of more than 250 people. This includes Miami Music Week, which confirmed today that all subsequent events taking place will be put on hold. Winter Music Conference, the entity that spurred Miami Music Week, geared up to celebrate their 35th Anniversary this month. This will be the first time in their long history that Winter Music Conference will not take place.
The City of Miami issued a press release today declaring a state of emergency for the beautiful seaside city of Miami. While not entirely surprising, this news follows statements made by city officials last week encouraging spring breakers and displaced Ultra guests to spend money at local venues. By this evening, the city has pulled all special permits for pool parties, events, gatherings, and nightclubs within the city. This decision affects over seventeen events that held partnerships with hotels like Kimpton EPIC, Shore Club, Nautilus, and others. Per city manager Jimmy Morales, “To the extent that anybody can declare spring break is over, it is over this year.”
For those that had intended to head to Miami during what was Ultra weekend to take advantage of their previously booked hotels and flights, this comes as extra disappointing news. During this time, all must understand the circumstances as the World Health Organization declares a pandemic that casts its shadow over us all. For anyone that was impacted by these decisions, please see our article on how to handle canceled festivals and events. Until then, stay safe and healthy. The electronic music community will prevail and join together at future events, hopefully, sooner rather than later.
