Arroyo Seco Weekend, a festival typically held in June at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, has been postponed this year, though no reason has been given for the postponement. The news was announced in late March, upsetting potential festival-goers and local businesses alike, as they depend on these types of events to bring in money.
Last year’s Arroyo Seco Weekend boasted names such as Neil Young, Jack White, and Robert Plant, but the 2019 lineup is yet to be announced, and the festival’s website has seemingly not been touched since the previous festivities. However, the festival seemed to hit a peak in its first year is 2017, with a more alternative lineup, including Weezer, The Shins, Fitz and the Tantrums, and The Mowgli’s.
Over the past few years, Pasadena has been trying to diversify the experience at the Rose Bowl Stadium, due to increasing costs and the competition for the attention of festival attendees. The venue is typically known for its golf course and sports events, namely the collegiate football game, The Rose Bowl (of which USC holds the title for most wins). However, the projected income from Arroyo Seco Weekend has been much lower than anticipated. In study by PasadenaNow.com, the festival was estimated to bring in more than 50,000 people per weekend, but according to festival organizer Nic Adler, the past two festivals have only brought in 25,000 people each.
Despite the lack of previous attendees and the unexpected postponement, the festival should continue, as the promoter, AEG division Goldenvoice, has a ten year contract with the venue, and is set to operate each year through 2026.
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