U.S. Independent Venue Week Announces 120 Participants For 2020

Returning for its third year to the U.S., Independent Venue Week will stages shows in more than 120 independent venues in 70 cities July 6-12 for what promises to be its biggest year yet.

Last year’s IVW held 200 shows at 83 venues in 50 cities, after starting in 20 venues in its inaugural edition.

For the uninitiated, IVW was founded by Sybil Bell in the U.K. in 2014. Inspired and modeled after the Record Store Day initiative, the event essentially invites venues to participate by hosting shows under the IVW banner in the U.K. in late January, a typically slow period. The model was ported over the U.S. by boutique music marketing firm Marauder. 

Last year’s artist ambassador was Fantastic Negrito, who previously graced the cover of Pollstar.

Participating venues this year include 9:30 Club in Washington, D.C.; First Avenue in Minneapolis; City Winery venues throughout the U.S.; World Café Live in Philadelphia; Marathon Music Works in Nashville; Higher Ground in Burlington, Vermont; The Crocodile in Seattle; and Thalia Hall in Chicago. 

Rev. Moose of Marauder said in a statement: “Last year’s edition of Independent Venue Week saw 488 artists play in front of 35,000 fans across 83 venues.” 

“With the number of venues and promoters that are already confirmed for this July, it will be rewarding to see this initiative reach even more fans. We are particularly excited that several independent promoters will be joining us this year. We are unendingly grateful to the sponsors that have helped us shine light on these business leaders in their own communities.”

Eventbrite is the official ticketing partner of IVW. Andy Donner, SVP of Music and Corporate Development at Eventbrite, said in a statement: “Independent music venues and promoters need our support year-round, but it’s moments like Independent Venue Week that contribute significantly to a boost in awareness with fans while also shining a light on the challenges the industry is up against. I’m proud that Eventbrite is partnering with Independent Venue Week for the third year running. Go see live music!”