SXSW Canceled as Austin Mayor Declares Local Disaster Over Coronavirus

This is the first time in the music conference’s 34-year history it has canceled the entire annual event.

South by Southwest has been canceled, following a press conference Friday (March 6) where Austin Mayor Steve Adler declared a local disaster due to concerns over the coronavirus.

The annual music conference was scheduled March 13-22. This is the first time SXSW's 34-year history it has canceled the entire annual event.

During Adler’s press conference Friday, he said, "I am proud that we are making decisions that are data driven.” But he also expressed regret about the action, adding, "It is really unfortunate to be cancelling SXSW. It is really important to our city."

https://www.billboard.com/articles/business/touring/9329923/sxsw-canceled-coronavirus-austin-local-disaster