LEE COUNTY, Fla. — The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel, iHeartMedia, and BMI announced their decision to postpone the 7th annual Island Hopper Songwriter Fest.
“After extensive consideration, and in light of the COVID-19 virus, we felt this was the most prudent way to proceed, we are just as disappointed as our songwriters and fans, but we’re looking forward to next year,” says Tamara Pigott, executive director for The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel.
The festival will now be held on Sept. 17th through the 26th, 2021.
The fest is a 10-day music festival in Southwest Florida.
It attracts country music singers and songwriters from Nashville and all across the country. More than 80 artists perform more than 100 shows, most of which are free in small, intimate venues across Captiva Island, Fort Myers Beach, and downtown Fort Myers.
But, virtual plans are being discussed by iHeart and other sponsors.
“iHeart is actively working with Lee County and BMI to create new virtual fan experiences for our growing Island Hopper audience and keep an eye on making 2021 our best festival ever,” says Louis Kaplan, senior vice president of programming
Island Hopper Songwriter Fest organizers have produced three monthly Songs from the Sofa, a virtual experience featuring previous Island Hopper songwriters on Instagram Live.
Songs from the Sofa will continue on the third Thursday of every month.
