The World turned Upside Down? Cities, Festivalization and Uncertainty

The rapid proliferation of festivals experienced by cities round the world over last four decades was brought to a sudden halt in early 2020 coronavirus pandemic. Planned gatherings ranging from local arts global megaevents were summarily abandoned, postponed, or converted digital alternatives. This paper opens with contextual introduction. ensuing section considers reasons for seemingly unfe ered and festivalization that had occurred pre-Covid-19, but indicates problems already arisen appropriation public space, overtourism security before current crisis. next part surveys pandemic's impact on urban festival sector date. With reference planned series case studies festivals, it notes responses whole partial cancellations implementation wholly options. conclusion argues continuing importance physical congregation designated places must be recognized, contending this is enhanced rather than challenged rise