Ann Arbor Art Fair & Common Ground Music Fest Now Canceled

The Ann Arbor Art Fair and the Common Ground Music Festival have now been added to the growing list of festivals and events in Michigan canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Organizers of the Ann Arbor Art Fair announced Thursday the difficult decision to cancel the event, scheduled for July 16-19, had been made.  In a statement organizer Maureen Riley said, "This was an extremely difficult decision, as we know how deeply this impacts the participating artists, local businesses and the broader Ann Arbor community. However, the COVID-19 virus has changed the world as we know it and the safety of our visitors, artists, and area residents is the top priority." This would be the 61st year for the popular Michigan event.

In addition to the art fair, the organizers indicated that both the annual Townie Street Party and Dart for Art, which kick off Art Fair week in Ann Arbor, have been cancelled.

Also out for 2020 is the popular Common Ground Music Festival in Lansing. Organizers made the announcement on Facebook about the cancellation and said they are setting their sights on 2021 already. Calling the change in schedule a postponement, organizers said,

"The good news is your original ticket is valid for the rescheduled 2021 shows. If you are able to roll over your purchase to next year we would greatly appreciate it. We are an independent organization and could really use the financial support of our great community in getting through these challenging times. If you need the cash now or can't attend the rescheduled event, we get it and have your back, you can get a refund."

Organizers also told fans that Blink-182, on tap to perform this year, has been rescheduled for 2021 with the event taking place July 9-10. The event was scheduled to take place near the Cooley Law School Stadium, and it's the first time in 21 years for a cancellation.