Mariposa Folk Festival 2021 Canceled Due to COVID-19
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Today, organizers of the storied Mariposa Folk Festival, held in Orillia, announced the cancellation of this year’s festival scheduled for July 9-11, 2021, due to COVID-19.
During the past many months, Mariposa Folk Foundation has been in regular communication with the festival community, artist managers, core organizing volunteers and members of the production team. Organizers have also been following the communications of public health and other authorities.
In the spirit of Mariposa’s values, including maintaining trust, it was important to us to consider the interests of everyone with a stake in Mariposa Folk Festival as we made the decision on the fate of the 2021 festival.
The 2021 festival, even at reduced capacity and/or programming, no longer seems viable under the current conditions with the number of COVID-19 cases, a continuing lockdown, the unavoidable setbacks in the rollout of vaccines and the low likelihood of receiving permits in time to do the extensive planning that is required. As a result, organizers have determined that cancellation is the only appropriate course of action.
The festival had, once again, planned to celebrate its much anticipated 60th anniversary this year with one of the strongest lineups assembled in decades.
Artistic Director, Liz Scott, stated “It was exciting building this lineup of amazing musicians and of course it’s disheartening that we won’t be able to gather together to watch it all unfold. But when we do get back together in July 2022, everything will seem sweeter”.
In a statement issued to the media, the organization stated that its top priority is the health and safety of the audience, artists, volunteers and other supporters. It also stated that, even though the festival is still some months away, organizers felt that the announcement should be made as early as possible to allow interested parties and ticketholders maximum time to plan accordingly.
Mariposa is offering ticket purchasers a deferral for 2022 festival tickets, a full refund, or the option of donating ticket purchases back to the festival, a non-profit organization and a registered charity. Donations can also be made via Canada Helps.
The President of the Mariposa Folk Foundation and Festival Chair, Pam Carter, stated: “It’s very disappointing that we’ll all miss Mariposa Folk Festival again this summer, especially considering the incredible lineup. We will begin to plan for a fantastic return and celebration on July 8-10, 2022”. Organizers are planning alternate activities for the later part of 2021, which will be announced once plans have been finalized and it is determined that it is safe to proceed.
Carter wishes to assure all that the organization is strong, vibrant, financially sound and ready to gather in celebration as soon as it is safe to do so. We have remained active for 61 years and will continue to be part of the arts community. She also wishes to thank all Mariposa’s supporters who conveyed messages of hope and goodwill to the organizers.
For more information and interviews phone 705-326-3655.