Regina Folk Festival shutting down for good
Event had its roots at the university in 1969
After 55 years, the Regina Folk Festival is shutting down permanently.Earlier this month, the organization announced that this summer’s outdoor showcase for folk and many other types of music was cancelled.
Even worse, the organization is dissolving.
“Despite the dedicated efforts of staff and board, it is no longer possible to continue producing the festival due to financial constraints and reduced operational capacity. The time has come to say goodbye to the Regina Folk Festival,” the group said on its Facebook page.
In the same post, the organization says it was hurt by the COVID-19 pandemic.“The live music sector in Canada has suffered greatly over the last five years and we are not immune,” the post said. “Although there’s been a gradual recovery, many festivals and venues are still struggling, and in some cases, pausing or ceasing operations.”The move means Regina will lose one of its premier annual events, a draw for residents and tourists alike.
The format has changed over the decades but for many years, the multi–day summer event has been held in Victoria Park, with free events and vendors during the day and paid events in the evening.
The roots of the folk festival go back to 1969, when the first event was held on what is now the U of R campus (but back then was the Regina campus of the University of Saskatchewan).
The festival has seen musicians like Megan Nash, Mavis Staples, k.d. lang and Tegan and Sara take to the stage.
