‘Financial constraints’ mean the end of Regina Folk Festival, board says

The Regina Folk Festival is no more.

According to the festival’s board of directors, this year’s event has been cancelled, and the organization is in the process of dissolving. The board cited financial issues as one of the reasons behind the decision.

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“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 board wrote in a statement shared on Tuesday.

“The time has come to say goodbye to the Regina Folk Festival.”

The next steps will be decided at a special general meeting later this spring, the board said, and those who have purchased advance tickets will receive refunds “over the next few business days.”

“For many years, RFF enjoyed growth and abundance, but recently, economic challenges have become insurmountable,” the board added.

“Ongoing financial pressures from the pandemic, including stagnant or reduced funding, rising costs, and declining ticket sales, have created obstacles we can no longer overcome.”

The festival took a fallow year in 2025 with the goal of rebuilding the event, with a concert series taking the festival’s place. In November, the board announced the festival’s return, but by the end of January “it became clear that financial challenges and capacity limitations could not be overcome.”

According to the festival’s board, the live music sector is struggling across Canada, and the costs to put on a festival have jumped by 30-40 per cent since 2019.

“This news is difficult, however we are filled with gratitude for everyone involved with the festival,” the board wrote.

“We are grateful for the dedication, love, and expertise of our volunteers. We appreciate the support and encouragement given to us by our donors, partners, and sponsors. We continue to be inspired by the musicians and artists who’ve graced our stages with their talent. We are grateful for the hardworking staff and crew who powered this world-class event. Last but not least, we are so thankful for the generations of audience members who made this festival as special as it was.”