Palm Springs calls off new edition over Omicron

The Palm Springs Film Festival in the United States has canceled the 2022 edition of the event over Omicron variant surge. 

“Based on the current rise of COVID cases, the Palm Springs International Film Society has announced that the Film Festival will not take place this year from January 7-17,” the festival said in a statement.

“This follows the cancellation of the January 6 Film Awards. After thoughtful consideration, the Film Society feels this is the most responsible decision to ensure the safety of our patrons, filmmakers, and staff. Those who have purchased festival tickets and passes will receive a refund.  For most, the refund will be returned to their original method of payment,” the statement added.

Last week, the Palm Springs International Film Society said the Palm Spring Film Awards will be canceled.

But the statement said, “The Film Awards will partner with Entertainment Tonight to celebrate this year’s honorees with details to follow. The festival will announce juried award winners from the official selection on January 15 via press release and social media.”

This marks the second cancelation of the event as the 2020 edition of the Palm Springs Film Festival had been called off.

SQ/AG