Thunder Bay’s Bayfest Music Festival Canceled
Rising costs and a weak Canadian dollar force cancellation.
Bayfest, the Thunder Bay music festival slated for July 18-20, has been called off, organizers announced. Logistical hurdles, high production expenses, and the unfavorable exchange rate between the Canadian and U.S. dollar are to blame for the cancellation.
Logistical Problems and Rising Costs Cited
Organizers stated in a press release on the festival’s website that a combination of factors led to the difficult decision. Ticket holders who made purchases online will receive automatic refunds. Those who bought tickets elsewhere can expect refunds to their credit cards within approximately 30 days.
The festival had received $125,000 in funding from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Ontario Games in April. Organizers did not respond to requests for comment.
Broader Economic Challenges Impacting Festivals
The director of the promotion of the Committee for Festivals and Events of the City of Timmins, Sean Harris, expressed his disappointment but noted that other festivals have experienced similar challenges since the spring. The rising U.S. dollar, in particular, presents a significant obstacle.
“The impact can really hurt. We saw it and we experienced it.”
—Sean Harris, Director of promotion of the Committee for Festivals and Events of the City of Timmins
The Canadian dollar has struggled recently, reaching a low of 72 U.S. cents in April, impacting businesses and events that rely on cross-border transactions (BNN Bloomberg).
Tough Times for Northern Ontario Festivals
Several festivals in the Thunder Bay region have faced difficulties recently. The Franco Festival, rebranded as the Bonjour festival, took a hiatus last year for restructuring. Also, the 2025 folklore festival was canceled in March. As a result, festivals such as Rock on the River in Timmins are prioritizing Canadian acts to mitigate financial risks, said Harris.
Harris explained that festivals in Northern Ontario face considerable uncertainty regarding artist fees, production costs, and U.S. customs duties. He stressed that consistent attendance is crucial for a festival’s survival, as ticket sales are the primary determinant of success or failure.
Harris hopes that Rock on the River can fill the void left by Bayfest’s cancellation. He added that Rock on the River has strong community support and hopes to attract even more attendees to celebrate its tenth anniversary.
Bayfest had anticipated performances by Loverboy, Trooper, and Big Wreck. The festival was formerly known as Country on the Bay.
