Canadian band July Talk and B.C. music festival Summerset are adapting to COVID-19 social distancing guidelines by keeping fans inside their cars.
July Talk announced Wednesday it will perform Aug. 12 and 13 at a drive-in near Toronto.
“We've been working on this idea for some time now and it feels like it's going to be a pretty special event,” read a statement from the band. “The thought that we will be able to perform and feel the audience's company again is just too much, we can't contain our excitement.”
July Talk promises to screen music videos and perform a full 90-minute set with audio broadcast to car radios and live video shown on the drive-in screen.
The event will be “in compliance with government health and social distancing protocols.”
The drive-in concert announcement came a day after promoters of the Summerset Music & Arts Festival in Fort Langley, B.C. announced it will stage Canada’s “first Drive-In music festival” from Aug. 28 to 30.
“The venue size will allow you more distancing to watch, listen, and enjoy the live concert, all from the comfort and safety of your vehicle, an open tailgate, or the bed of a pickup truck,” organizers explained. “Each vehicle will have a designated spot that adheres to social distancing regulations. Sit back and enjoy the show from the comfort of your car or truck!”
Fans without vehicles can “bring a chair, a blanket, or stand up and dance, all within your marked socially distanced plot” or stay home and watch a livestream.
On site, “additional hand washing stations and restrooms will be available, and a sanitation team will maintain rigorous cleaning standards.”
The festival will be a benefit for B.C. musicians impacted by the COVID-19 crisis.