For the first time in 34 years, the show at South by Southwest will not go on.
Austin Mayor Steve Adler and Travis County Judge Sarah Eckhardt jointly announced the declaration of a “local state of disaster” in the city and county, and heir first move was to announce the cancellation of SXSW.
Interim Local Health Authority Dr. Mark Escott said there were still no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Austin-Travis County area (one test sent off to the CDC came back negative), but noted that the threat of an outbreak was increasing across the U.S. and locally.
In a statement posted online, SXSW organizers wrote that they were “devastated” by news of the cancellation.
They are exploring options for rescheduling the event and creating a “virtual SXSW online experience” for 2020 participants.
“We understand the gravity of the situation for all the creatives who utilize SXSW to accelerate their careers; for the global businesses,” the organizers wrote, “and for Austin and the hundreds of small businesses – venues, theatres, vendors, production companies, service industry staff, and other partners that rely so heavily on the increased business that SXSW attracts.”
SXSW Edu was slated to begin this Sunday, while the marquee Conference, Film Festival, Music Festival, and Gaming Expo were set to kick off on March 13.
The impact of SXSW’s cancellation on the local economy is of great concern to elected leaders, business owners, and the frontline workers who make the festival run smoothly.
Last year’s conference and festivals drew participation totaling approximately 417,400, with registrants representing 106 countries.
Unofficial events and a general party atmosphere during the spring break event draw many more visitors to the city for the duration of the fest.
SXSW estimates its 2019 impact on the Austin economy totaled $355.9 million.
Loss of that economic boon for the city will undoubtedly have a profound impact on area businesses, especially those in and around the high-rent Downtown and Eastside region, where much of the festival’s activity is concentrated.
The SXSW estimate of 2019 economic impact includes $62.5 million in indirect activity – increased spending at area businesses that are not themselves involved with SXSW events.
Many on social media were angry and concerned about the decision:
Help me support the filmmakers who will no longer be having their world premiere at SXSW due to the city of Austin’s fight of the Coronavirus. Please send me your film’s info and I will signal boost your efforts. My love to all of you and I’m so sorry. Long live SXSW and film.
— Jim Cummings (@jimmycthatsme) March 6, 2020
The cancelling of SXSW is a devastating blow to a lot of indie filmmakers who were set to finally premiere their hard work. My heart goes out to you all.
— N O S ⋊ Ɔ I ᴚ ᴚ Ǝ ᗡ ⊥ ⊥ O Ɔ S (@scottderrickson) March 6, 2020
SXSW: When your music festival cares more about your health than your president. https://t.co/RBEC3UJIOp
— Mrs. Betty Bowers (@BettyBowers) March 7, 2020
SXSW cancelled. No question in my mind #Coachella is next. Damn, we survive a depressing winter -only threatened to stay indoors at all times during Spring,Summer.
I can sadly imagine the warnings – "Stay away from the crowded NJ Boardwalks" #SXSW2020 pic.twitter.com/JB8O7MnabA
— AC Junior (@CamJunior1972) March 7, 2020
#SXSW has been cancelled due to the concerns surrounding the Coronavirus. We feel terrible for all the filmmakers/talent who were meant to be in attendance. Our boy @Ser_Jon_Arryn had lots planned for the festival and We will do our best to support/promote these films. #SXSW2020 pic.twitter.com/xHBb6SyKbG
— Reel Anarchy (@ReelAnarchy) March 7, 2020
If ANY filmmakers lost their premiere date because of #SXSW, please reach out to me as @thedailytexan is very much still interested in covering these films. We cater to a large student audience who is always looking for new and unique film experiences. 📽️
— Noah Levine ✖️ SXSW (@ZProductionz) March 7, 2020
The last time a film of mine played at #SXSW, it completely changed my career, and led me down the path towards directing the film I'm in post on right now. My heart goes out to all the filmmakers and programmers.
— Michael Mohan (@michaelmohan) March 7, 2020
SXSW being cancelled has real implications for the artists who were scheduled to play. Continue showing up for them; buying tickets or merch, reposting tour dates, anything helps 💕💜
— Audiotree (@audiotreemusic) March 7, 2020