Merritt's Rockin’ River Music Fest announces cancellation due to financial struggles

Photo: Rockin' River Music Fest

Another BC music festival has announced that it is cancelling its event for 2023, facing financial struggles.

Rockin’ River Music Fest in Merritt announced on social media Friday afternoon that they have been "met with a series of economic obstacles that we tried our best to overcome, but in the end, we have made the decision not to move forward with the festival in 2023."

They thanked the City of Merritt for their support, along with the artists, staff and fans who have come to the event.

"Many of whom have been loyal since year one," they wrote. "We hope to see you again soon."

Their announcement followed two West Coast music festivals stating their future was in doubt as soaring costs and uncertain ticket sales make it impossible to plan and stage their events.

The Vancouver Folk Music Festival announced last week it had decided to cancel its 2023 edition due to rising production costs.

In a recent update, however, the team is now re-thinking whether to cancel after several parties have offered possible solutions for funding and support.

And the Squamish Constellation Festival is working out whether to scrap this year's edition and posted that they are seeking investors to make the 2023 festival viable.

- With files from The Canadian Press