Squamish Valley Music Festival cancelled

by The Georgia Straight Staff on March 2nd, 2016 at 9:17 AM

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The organizers of the Squamish Valley Music Festival, BRANDLIVE and Live Nation Canada, have announced that it has been cancelled this year.

"We have made the extremely difficult decision to not proceed with the 2016 festival, due to take place in August," reads a statement on the Squamish Fest website. "This decision was not made lightly and we sincerely apologize to all the people this decision affects: the fans, artists, industry partners, corporate partners, suppliers and all of our supporters within the community of Squamish."

Last year the event featured headliners Drake, Mumford & Sons, and Sam Smith.

The District of Squamish posted the following message on its website:

The District of Squamish is extremely disappointed to learn that the Squamish Valley Music Festival will not proceed in 2016. The Festival has had an incredibly positive influence on Squamish in so many ways, including the significant revenue and economic impact it has brought to the community, and the immense amount of promotional exposure Squamish has enjoyed throughout North America and internationally.

“It’s difficult to quantify the total impact of the Festival but we know there has been a massive injection of revenue, increased awareness and heightened profile for Squamish,” says District of Squamish Mayor Patricia Heintzman. “Squamish Fest has helped our town transition to a place that has been recognized on ‘best of’ lists in A-list publications. It has become part of the tapestry of our town; and has given our community a great sense of pride. It was also a fantastically fun weekend that many of our residents enjoyed immensely as they were caught up in the spirit of music, art and the spectacular. We have played host to the world, and it has been a great honour.”

The District has developed a high functioning and positive working relationship with the Festival team, and could not have asked for a better partner. “I’d especially like to recognize Paul Runnals, Executive Producer, for his passion, vision and appreciation for Squamish. He has been a truly excellent partner, and we hope to be able to work with Paul and his team again in the future,” continues the Mayor. “We know that this decision was not made lightly.”

The Squamish Valley Music Festival leaves an indelible legacy and has helped put Squamish on the map with its world class production – we are grateful.