The Regina Folk Festival (RFF) has announced its permanent closure after more than 50 years of operations, citing insurmountable financial challenges and reduced operational capacity.

Photo Credit: Regina Folk Festival

The closure reflects broader challenges in Canada's live music industry, which has experienced a 60% revenue decline since the pandemic. Festival organizing costs have increased by 30-40% since 2019, according to Festivals and Major Events Canada.

Key Details About the Closure:

• All 2024 RFF Insider tickets and 2023 "You Had to Be There" tickets will be automatically refunded
• The Board of Directors will dissolve the organization following their bylaws
• A special membership meeting will be held in spring to determine next steps

Contributing Factors to the Closure:

• Stagnant or reduced funding
• Rising operational costs
• Declining ticket sales
• Pandemic-related financial pressures

The festival attempted a strategic hiatus in 2023 to rebuild and reimagine its future, offering a concert series instead of the full festival. Despite initial optimism for a 2025 return, financial challenges proved insurmountable by January.

The organizers expressed gratitude to their supporters, including Canadian Heritage, City of Regina, SK Arts, Tourism Saskatchewan, and TD Bank Group. They encouraged continued support for the arts community and acknowledged the festival's 55-year legacy of community building and live music celebration.

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