Jack Harlow‘s inaugural Gazebo Festival didn’t go as planned as severe weather put an end to the weekend early.
Harlow was set to headline the second day of the Louisville, Kentucky festival on Sunday (May 26) but organizers were forced to pull the plug due to tornado warnings.
A spokesperson for the festival said: “The safety of our patrons, artists and staff is paramount. Due to continuing hazardous conditions throughout the early afternoon and a second wave of weather expected this evening, we have made the very difficult decision to cancel the remainder of Gazebo Festival.”
Sunday ticket holders will receive a full refund, while weekend pass ticket holders will be refunded 50 percent of their ticket price. All refunds will be issued within 30 days, according to the festival.
Harlow also commented on the cancelation on his Instagram Stories.
“Well. We have to cancel day 2 of @gazebo. We are currently on a tornado watch. I know things cleared up a little bit but the bad weather has damaged the site and there are more storms and dangerous winds on the way. This means everyone on day 2 including myself won’t be performing anymore,” he wrote.
“I’m trying to focus on the positive because all I felt was happiness yesterday. I’m grateful for our flawless first day and for the way this city came together. Thank you so much. I’m sorry.”
The safety of our patrons, artists and staff is paramount. Due to continuing hazardous conditions throughout the early afternoon and a second wave of weather expected this evening, we have made the very difficult decision to cancel the remainder of Gazebo Festival. pic.twitter.com/t2XvLW9vBO
— Gazebo Fest (@gazebofestival) May 26, 2024
Other artists that were scheduled to perform on the second day of the festival included PinkPantheress, Omar Apollo and Slum Village.
The first day of the festival, which was headlined by SZA, received much praise.
The day saw performances from an eclectic group of artists including Vince Staples, Rich Homie Quan, Majid Jordan and a DJ set from James Blake.
Though SZA was 30 minutes late in starting her set, she won a warm reception from the crowd after not stopping off in Louisville on her mammoth SOS Tour.
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During her performance, she told fans: “It’s my first time in Kentucky. Thank you for welcoming me.”
Jack Harlow announced Gazebo Festival back in February in an effort to boost his hometown, with a proceed of each ticket sale going to local community organizations via the rapper’s foundation.
“Jack Harlow is an extraordinary Louisvillian who continues to give back to his hometown,” said Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg in a press release at the time.
“This is yet another way Jack is showing up for our city, and I can’t wait to see the excitement this festival creates. I am so grateful for his commitment to making first class things happen for Louisville and our people.”
