JUST RELEASED TODAY BY CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS & SPECIAL EVENTS
Today, the City of Chicago's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announced the cancellation of four beloved annual events and what would have been a new, soon-to-launch citywide celebration of music.
Due to the COVID-19 crisis, the Chicago Memorial Day Parade and Wreath Laying Ceremony (May 23) will be cancelled along with three legacy music festivals: the 4th Annual Chicago House Music Conference & Festival (May 21–24), the 35th Chicago Gospel Music Festival (May 27–30), and the 37th Annual Chicago Blues Festival (June 5–7). Additionally, DCASE has cancelled Chicago In Tune (May 21–June 7), a new 18-day, citywide celebration of music that was to be a signature program of the Year of Chicago Music.
As the City continues to recognize the Year of Chicago Music, DCASE will offer some digital content and virtual concerts in lieu of the 2020 House music, Gospel music and Blues festivals. Further, Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and DCASE will extend the 2020 Year of Chicago Music into 2021 to continue to amplify the excitement and momentum building across the local industry.
