Pharrell Williams’ “Something In The Water” Festival Faces Cancellation Amid Ongoing Challenges
Pharrell Williams’ “Something In The Water” festival has been an ambitious project since its inception in 2019. A celebration of music, culture, and creativity, the festival brought unique energy to Virginia Beach, Pharrell’s hometown, during its debut year. However, the journey of the festival has been anything but smooth, with a series of setbacks threatening its future.
The inaugural year was a resounding success, impressing attendees with its attention to detail and standout performances. But the momentum was abruptly halted when the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the 2020 and 2021 editions. Adding to the challenges, 2021 also marked a tragic year for Pharrell as his cousin, Donovon Lynch, was fatally shot in Virginia Beach. The incident sparked outrage and led Lynch’s family to sue the city for $50 million.
Tensions With Virginia Beach
In response to the lawsuit and a perceived lack of accountability from Virginia Beach leadership, Pharrell chose to move the festival to Washington, D.C., in 2022. “I wish the same energy I’ve felt from Virginia Beach leadership upon losing the festival would have been similarly channeled following the loss of my relative’s life,” Pharrell stated at the time. Despite efforts by city officials to mend ties, including City Manager Patrick Duhaney’s plea to keep the festival in Virginia Beach, Pharrell pointed to a history of “toxic energy” in the city’s leadership.
Eventually, an agreement was reached to bring “Something In The Water” back to Virginia Beach in late 2022, with a settlement over the Lynch family lawsuit seemingly easing tensions. Yet, even with its return, the festival’s struggles were far from over.
A Series of Setbacks
The 2023 edition of the festival faced significant challenges, including poor weather that dampened attendance and enthusiasm. These complications prompted organizers to push the 2024 event from its usual April schedule to October, only for the festival to be postponed again as Pharrell admitted it “just [wasn’t] ready yet.”
By early 2025, patience among Virginia Beach leaders had worn thin. Mayor Bobby Dyer issued an ultimatum to Pharrell and his team, giving them five days to address the festival’s issues or risk termination of the agreement. The ultimatum came with the threat of the city reclaiming advance funding provided to the organizers and finding another event to replace “Something In The Water.”
Unfortunately, Pharrell’s team was unable to meet the deadline. As reported by WAVY TV 10 journalist Brett Hall, the City of Virginia Beach officially terminated the agreement, effectively canceling the festival for 2025. Pharrell has yet to comment on the decision.
A Complicated Legacy
While the cancellation marks a significant setback, it underscores the broader challenges that have plagued “Something In The Water” since its inception. From navigating a pandemic to dealing with the fallout from a personal tragedy, Pharrell’s vision for a world-class cultural event has faced hurdles at every turn.
The festival’s cancellation raises questions about its future and whether it can regain the momentum and goodwill that made its debut so memorable. For now, the fate of “Something In The Water” remains uncertain, leaving fans and supporters wondering if Pharrell will find a way to bring his dream back to life.
As Pharrell continues to expand his influence in music, fashion, and philanthropy, his dedication to creating positive cultural experiences remains unwavering. Whether “Something In The Water” finds a new home or evolves into something different, Pharrell’s passion for celebrating creativity and community will undoubtedly guide his next steps.
For Virginia Beach, the loss of the festival is a significant blow, both culturally and economically. Yet, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration and understanding between artists and the communities they seek to uplift.
