CMA Music Fest in Nashville canceled due to coronavirus pandemic – Oklahoman.com

NASHVILLE, Tennessee – The Country Music Association announced today that is canceling the 2020 edition of the massive CMA Music Fest in light of the coronavirus pandemic. 

Originally known as Fan Fair and billed as the longest-running country music festival in the world, the event was scheduled for June 4-7 in downtown Nashville. 

“After careful deliberation, and in following the latest guidance from national, state and local authorities, we are sad to announce that CMA Fest will not take place in 2020,” the CMA said in a statement.

“Whether you planned to attend CMA Fest for the first time, or you have attended many times throughout the last 48 years, we know how special this festival is for Country Music fans around the globe and that many will be disappointed by this decision. As the world is still greatly affected by the spread of COVID-19, we cannot in good conscience risk the health and wellbeing of our fans, artists, staff and Country Music community.” 

According to The Tennessean, the Metro Nashville Public Health Department reported Tuesday at least 541 cases of COVID-19 in Davidson County, an increase from 443 cases reported Monday. 

Dozens of country music artists with Oklahoma ties have played the CMA Music Fest over the years. As previously reported, Carrie Underwood, Blake Shelton, Brooks & Dunn, Miranda Lambert and Rascal Flatts were among the headliners at the 2019 CMA Music Fest.

The Country Music Association will honor four-day passes purchased for this year’s event for CMA Fest 2021, according to a news release. However, for fans who prefer a full refund, the association will provide one upon request if the passes were purchased through Ticketmaster or the CMA Fest Box Office. Those who purchased passes through non-official channels should contact the seller directly. Within the next 24 to 48 hours, all four-day pass purchasers will receive an email with further instructions.

“We greatly appreciate your understanding and patience, as our actions are always in the best interest of our Country Music community. In the coming weeks and months, we will continue to bring Country fans and artists together to celebrate the unique spirit and sense of unity that is at the heart of what CMA Fest stands for. We will also share information about future CMA events and ways to support those within our community affected by the COVID-19 pandemic,” the CMA said in its statement. 

The festival generated an estimated $65 million in local economic impact last year, The Tennessean reports. The event draws about 80,000 festivalgoers annually, with most acts performing for free in clubs or on outdoor stages.