One of Atlanta’s largest annual festivals has been abruptly canceled without an official explanation, but many are speculating the state’s gun laws are to blame.
Organizer Live Nation announced Monday that Music Midtown will no longer take place next month “due to circumstances beyond their control.”
The festival’s policy prohibits firearms at the event held in Atlanta’s Piedmont Park, but Georgia law permits guns in public spaces, including parks.
Festival-goers will be receiving refunds, but many are still upset at the major loss of income and entertainment for the city.
“Obviously, there are small businesses that are part of this, hotels that are a part of this, and more broadly, the economic impact here, I think, is on the music industry,” said City Council president Doug Shipman. “We’re known as a music capital and so it’s a real impact when the music city is not able to put on these kinds of musical events for the public.”
City leaders have expressed concern at the loss of revenue. Shipman joined “Morning Edition” to talk about the economic effects of the cancellation.
