Chicago's Michelada Fest Cancels Due to ‘Uncertainty' Around Artist Visas & ‘Political Climate'
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Michelada Fest, set to take place in Chicago July 19-20, has been cancelled, organizers announced on Tuesday (May 6).
'Due to the uncertainty surrounding artist visas and the rapidly changing political climate, we're no longer able to guarantee the full experience we had dreamed up for you with all your favorite artists,' the statement issued on Tuesday reads. 'Although we tried to push through, it became clear that we wouldn't be able to deliver the full lineup as planned.'
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Set to be headlined by Grupo Firme, Luis R Conriquez, Anitta and Danny Ocean, Michelada Fest — co-produced by Big Indie, Zamora Live and Viva Tu Musica — cancels amid an ongoing conversation about how the Trump administration's immigration policies could continue to impact the live music industry, particularly in Latin music spaces. Meanwhile, Mexican artists who sing narcocorridos have been under the spotlight recently with Mexican states cracking down on banning the style of music. The U.S. government has taken a stance on the situation as well, to the point of cancelling visas for Los Alegres del Barranco.
'This was not an easy decision for us to make,' the statement continues. 'For seven years, we've poured everything into this festival to create something truly special for our community. Last year was our most incredible celebration yet, and we were ready to make this year even bigger, with more energy, creativity, and corazón. But as independent organizers, we can't afford to take on a big risk with so much uncertainty ahead.
'We're heartbroken by the greater impact this will have on our involved community, with ripple effects reaching our neighborhoods, local economy and the culture we've built together. But despite this setback, we remain committed to our values. Michelada Fest will always be a safe place where our community comes together, united by pride and love of our culture and music. That won't ever change. We'll keep showing up, giving back, and uplifting our people in every way we can.'
Michelada Fest most recently held its inaugural edition in El Paso, Texas, where artists like Netón Vega, Snow Tha Product and Tito Torbellino Jr., among others, performed.
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