After over of a year of planning, and weeks of negative rumors, the 50th-anniversary celebration of Woodstock, set to take place this August in Watkins Glen, New York has been canceled. The festival confirmed that it would not be taking place in an official statement released to Billboard which reads,
“It’s a dream for agencies to work with iconic brands and to be associated with meaningful movements. We have a strong history of producing experiences that bring people together around common interests and causes which is why we chose to be a part of the Woodstock 50th Anniversary Festival. But despite our tremendous investment of time, effort and commitment, we don’t believe the production of the festival can be executed as an event worthy of the Woodstock Brand name while also ensuring the health and safety of the artists, partners, and attendees.”
Woodstock 50 Canceled
The cancelation comes after rumors of trouble brewing two weeks ago when ticket sales were delayed. This normally is a red flag for performing artists, as it indicates an issue exists with investors. The Black Keys also announced they would not be performing the festival which only added fuel to the rumor fire.
At the end of the day, while it is unfortunate the event will not take place, it is for everyone's best interest that organizers do not try to throw something together which cannot live up to the standards of safety that it should.
