Popular Las Vegas music festival canceled by threat of strong winds

LAS VEGAS — Saturday’s “Lovers & Friends” festival in Las Vegas has been canceled, according to a statement posted on the event’s social media accounts late Friday night.

This was to be the third installment of the annual hip-hop and R&B festival at Las Vegas Festival Grounds. It had been sold out.

Headliners for the event were to include Alicia Keys, Janet Jackson, Usher, Snoop Dogg, Gwen Stefani, Lil Wayne, the Backstreet Boys and many others.

“Lovers & Friends Festival has unfortunately been canceled due to dangerous weather predicted for Saturday,” the statement read. “Fans who purchased tickets directly through Front Gate Tickets will receive a refund within 30 days.”

The statement included a link to a website that appears to be deactivated, but the actual festival website had an updated statement from organizers.

“Lovers & Friends Festival organizers have been monitoring the weather for several days and proactively preparing for a windy Saturday,” it read. “However, the National Weather Service has now issued a High Wind Warning, including dangerous 30-35 mph sustained winds with gusts potentially more than 60 mph. Following advice from the National Weather Service and in consultation with local public officials, we must make the safest decision for our fans, artists, and staff, and cancel tomorrow’s Lovers & Friends Festival.

“This was an incredibly heartbreaking decision to make as we are aware that fans have traveled from all over the world to enjoy this incredible lineup of superstars and have been looking forward to this event for several months. We’ve worked hard to create an amazing event for you, and we are just as disappointed as you are.”

Jackson reposted the announcement on her social media accounts.

Usher, one of the founders and organizers of the event named for his 2004 hit song with Ludacris and Lil Jon, posted a statement on social media early Saturday morning.

“Mannn…I’m just as disappointed as you are. We were getting ready to turn up and celebrate today,” he wrote on X. “I have to follow the orders of city officials and the National Weather Service for everyone’s protection and stand strong in my belief that everything happens for a reason. I’m sorry we won’t get to see each other today, but know that I am always working on something to express my heartfelt gratitude for each and every one of you who continue to support me.

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