• by Steve McClellan  @mp_mcclellan, March 18, 2020

The 2020 Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity has been postponed from June until October 26 – 30, the organization confirmed today. 

The Ascential-owned operation had earlier announced that it had secured alternative October dates in case the ongoing pandemic forced a move. Earlier it said it might not make a decision until mid-April but noted in a statement today that the call was made “following productive talks with our valued partners and customers, and following consultation with public health officials, the City of Cannes and the French Authorities. As always, the health, safety and well being of our community is our priority.”

The statement further added: “We have worked with the City of Cannes to ensure that the move from June to October will be a smooth transition for everyone. All passes, sponsorship arrangements and bookings will roll over and remain valid. We recognize that this is a difficult time for the entire community and we will remain in deep consultation with our customers and partners as we continue to plan for the Festival and prepare for the Lions.”

The Lions will be awarded during the new Festival dates and the work will still be judged and awarded by previously selected global juries. “We are planning to extend the deadline and eligibility date and are currently finalizing the plans around this.” 

Philip Thomas, Chairman, Cannes Lions, commented: “The global situation is dynamic and changing rapidly, we felt it was critical to provide visibility on June as soon as possible. We will continue to liaise closely with our customers as we develop our plans.”

Simon Cook, Managing Director, Cannes Lions, added: “Our community is facing unprecedented challenges and collaboration has never been more important. We are focused now on planning the festival – and our beating heart, the Lions – to ensure our community is able to recognize the extraordinary work it contributes to business, organisations and society.”

More information can be found here.