Edmonton Folk Fest cancelled over COVID-19

The Edmonton Folk Music Festival has been cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Edmonton Folk Music Festival is the latest summer festival to be cancelled amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The annual outdoor event will not go ahead as planned this year, organizers confirmed in a statement Tuesday. 

“On behalf of the volunteers, board and staff of the festival, we are truly sad to announce the cancellation of our 41st annual festival,” reads a statement.

“In light of the global pandemic and the implications it has for large gatherings, the decision, though deeply disappointing, was necessary.”

The festival was set to take place August 6-9 in Gallagher Park in Edmonton's river valley.

Thousands of tarp-dwelling music lovers flock to the festival every year, rushing the hillside in an attempt to snag the best stage-front real estate for their tarps.

Established in 1980, Folk Fest is a four-day barrage of food, art, and live music. 

This year's line-up had not been announced but organizers said they are working to rebook the same artists for next year. 

Festival producer Terry Wickham had previously said 63 of 66 artists for this summer had already been confirmed.

As the health crisis drags on, it's shaping up to be a festival-free summer in Edmonton.

COVID-19 has already caused the cancellation of most of Edmonton's summer festivals including Fringe Theatre Festival, the Freewill Shakespeare Festival and the Edmonton International Jazz Festival.

NextFest will move its events online. The Whyte Avenue Art Walk has also been called off in favour of small art displays in the windows of shuttered businesses.

‘Good neighbours on the hill'

In Tuesday's statement, Folk Fest organizers said artists and vendors who usually serve the festival will likely need help from the community to stay afloat during this “very challenging time.”

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“As a not-for-profit, volunteer-driven organization, we know the importance of a strong community,” reads the statement.

“Our focus will turn to the community and the search for areas where we can help. 

“You are good neighbours on the hill, and now you have a chance to be a ‘good neighbour' all year and to bring that folk festival spirit to your community, your family and your friends. Until we return, keep listening to great music.”

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