Palm Springs film festival canceled based on COVID case surge

Palm Springs
FILE - Manager of Membership and Education at the Palm Springs International Film Festival Zack Solomon speaks at a screening of "Changing The Game" at the 31st Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival on January 13, 2020 in Palm Springs, California. Photo credit Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Palm Springs International Film Festival )

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KNX) — Amid a major surge in COVID-19 cases across the state, organizers of the Palm Springs International Film Festival have announced the show will not go on as planned at the beginning of 2022.

“After thoughtful consideration, the Film Society feels this is the most responsible decision to ensure the safety of our patrons, filmmakers and staff,” organizers shared in a statement.

All who have purchased tickets were told that they will receive a refund for the event, which was scheduled for Jan. 7-17. The cancellation comes after the Film Society’s decision to also cancel the Jan. 6 Film Awards.

“As this time the Palm Springs ShortFest is scheduled to return June 21-27,” organizers said. “The Film Festival and Film Awards will return to an in-person event in January 2023.”

In lieu of a film festival, organizers said they are working with Entertainment Tonight to celebrate the 2021 honorees and plan to share details soon.

“The festival will announce juried award winners from the official selection on Jan. 15 via press release and social media,” organizers said.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for Palm Springs International Film Festival )