Chicago’s Michelada Fest Cancels Citing ‘Uncertainty Surrounding Artist Visas’

Chicago’s Michelada Fest announced on Tuesday (May 6) that this year’s festival will not take place, citing “uncertainty surrounding artist visas and the rapidly changing political climate.” The event’s seventh edition was scheduled to take place at Chicago’s Oakwood Beach on July 19 and 20. Fans will receive refunds at the point of purchase within seven to 15 business days.

“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 festival said in a statement posted to their website and social media pages. “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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This year’s lineup featured headliners Grupo Firme, Anitta and Luis R Conriquez. Over the course of the Trump Administration’s three months in office, its policies have impacted international touring with tariffs, a bungled trade war, mass deportation and the revocation of visas based on political speech. The administration recently began cutting National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) grants, with venues including New York City’s Central Park SummerStage among those affected.

“This was not an easy decision for us to make,” the statement continued. “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.”

Michelada Fest acknowledged the cancellation’s effect on the wider community in Chicago, noting how it impacts local vendors, small businesses, community partners and more.

“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,” the statement read. “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.”