Arts groups press B.C. government to renew festival and event fund [Video]

A coalition of B.C. arts and culture groups is calling for a commitment from the provincial government to renew a program that funds fairs, festivals and events.

Two dozen organizations including the Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival, the PNE and the Vancouver Writers’ Festival have penned an open letter to the premier and arts and tourism minister calling for “urgent” on the B.C. Fairs, Festivals and Events Fund.

“During the NDP’s successful 2024 re-election campaign, we were elated to see your commitment to‘Provide stable, year over year funding for fairs, festivals and events,’” the group wrote.

“However, as time continues to pass without news of what that funding will be, our industry becomesmore vulnerable and lacks the confidence to move forward.”

Arts groups say they need clarity from the province sooner than later, in order to prepare for the busy summer season.

Claire Sakaki, executive director of Bard on the Beach, said festivals and events are …