Abruptly Canceled Music Festival “Puts Us a Half-Million in the Hole,” Says City Councilman

Originally scheduled for September 27-28 at the Seaside Park in Bridgeport, Connecticut, the Soundside Music Festival promoted headliners like Weezer, Hozier, and The Killers. Already gaining a great deal of attention from fans, the festival was suddenly canceled for what organizers claimed were “circumstances beyond our control.” But with fans confused and heartbroken over the canceled festival, it seemed that Bridgeport took the biggest hit as the event caused the city to lose out on $500,000. 

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With the Soundside Music Festival bringing thousands of fans to Bridgeport, the city benefited significantly from tourism. The city also received roughly $500,000 from ticket proceeds from the festival. That was just the start as the Bridgeport Music Festivals LLC signed a 10-year contract that saw them give an annual $50,000 donation to the park. But now, with the festival no longer taking place in 2025, city officials shared their concerns about the loss of funds. 

City Councilman Ernie Newton, who helped oversee the local legislative budget committee, didn’t shy away from how the cancellation affected more than the fans. “It puts us a half-million in the hole.”

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The Future Of Soundside Music Festival Remained Uncertain

As for the organizers of the Soundside Music Festival, they thanked Bridgeport for their continued support over the last few years. “We are deeply grateful to the City of Bridgeport, Mayor Ganim, our local partners, and all the fans for their support of the festival over the years. While we’re disappointed to have canceled this year’s show, we remain proud of the incredible musical moments we shared together in Seaside Park and the opportunity to call Bridgeport home.”

For fans who purchased a ticket, the Soundside Music Festival website explained the refund process and timeframe. “Due to circumstances beyond our control, Soundside Music Festival has been cancelled. Tickets will be refunded to the original method of payment in as little as 30 days depending on your bank’s processing time.” 

With fans and Bridgeport saddened over the news, the future of the festival remained uncertain. At this time, all social media accounts for Soundside had been deleted or disabled. 

(Photo by Natasha Moustache/WireImage)