On Saturday in front of the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts, local artists returned to the stage.

Passersby could hear music and speeches, and they could see lights set up for an extravaganza. 

But one thing was missing... Spectators! 

Unoccupied tables and chairs were set in front of the stage; a symbol that represents the impacts of COVID-19 on the events industry.

According to the Live Events Coalition 1.2 Million workers that make up the live events industry in Nevada are struggling to find work. The industry not only consists of artists and performers, it also includes event planners, caterers, florists, suppliers, and sound and lighting technicians.

The Live Events Coalition that started the Empty Events movement is calling on the Government to extend Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA). Some people are have been unemployed for six months and they hope to get a coronavirus relief package passed. 

Reno Empty Event posted the following statement on its page:

"It is urgent that congress come together to finalize a relief package for our families and for small businesses. Our small businesses, unable to function due to state and local health mandates, have seen revenue drop upwards of 90 to 100% for the last 20 plus weeks, with only 8 weeks of PPP to soften the blow. Many have exhausted those funds weeks ago." 

The Live Events Coalition is also hoping live event restrictions will be lifted. In Nevada public gatherings are still limited to 50 people, due to COVID-19 restrictions.

"We're hoping next week, Governor Sisolak makes the announcement and will be able to raise that and we can host live events, do it safely and show what Nevada really does best." said Kate Patay, the Chief Strategy Officer of Patay Consulting. "Right now we're seeing the largest spike in cases come from unauthorized gatherings, backyards, and in different areas. So to be able to regulate it in giant ballrooms that we have available here, the hotels, the casinos, the venues, we can better regulate to make sure people are properly social distancing and following protocols."

To watch Reno's Empty Event you can click here.