The 2020 MTV VMAs Have Changed Locations, Will Be Held Outdoors Now

The 2020 MTV Video Music Awards will no longer be held in the Barclays Center as previously planned.

MTV and the state of New York had hyped the event as the marking of big progress in the coronavirus pandemic when the show was announced, but now plans are being altered for safety reasons.

The awards show will still happen in New York City and it will take place at various outdoor locations around the city.

“The 2020 VMAs will be held on Sunday, Aug. 30 and pay homage to the incredible resiliency of New York with several outdoor performances around [NYC] with limited or no audience, adhering to all state and city guidelines. In close consultation with state and local health officials‎, it became clear at this time that outdoor performances with limited or no audience would be more feasible and safer than an indoor event,” MTV and the Barclays Center said in a statement to Page Six.

The statement continued, “The VMAs will highlight the boroughs in an exciting show and return to Barclays Center in 2021. MTV will continue to work closely with the Department of Health, state and local officials, the medical community, and key stakeholders to ensure the safety of all involved.”

The first three performers were just announced for the big show, which will be hosted by Keke Palmer.

Check out the full list of nominees for the big event!