Following Tuesday’s announcement by French Prime Minister Edouard Philippe that no major sporting or cultural events bringing together more than 5,000 participants could not be held before September, the organisers of the Festival are expected to confirm at a meeting on Thursday that the 2020 festival has been “postponed to 2021”
Discussions between the Festival Interceltique organisers, Culture Vannin and members of the Isle of Man Government earlier in the week also not unexpectedly concluded with the decision to withdraw the Isle of Man delegation from this year's festival should it have gone ahead.
Though this decision wasn't an easy one to make, safety of all involved has always been the primary concern, but the rapidly reducing lack of adequate rehearsal and preparation time when we are being asked to social distance has also been a major consideration. Moreover, the uncertainty around travel restrictions and border closures in the Isle of Man, UK, France and across Europe may not have enabled us to travel to and from the festival come August.
Looking ahead, Culture Vannin have expressed a desire to invite the bands to participate next year all being well, however it must be noted that the final decision rests with the festival organisers. With this in mind, Culture Vannin will be putting the bands forward for the 2021 festival once they are in a position to do so.
Our 50th anniversary year is certainly going to live long in everyone’s memory, albeit not necessarily for the reasons we hoped it would be.
With the continued uncertainty regarding the relaxation of restrictions on the island, we will continue to be guided by IOM Government advice, but now turn our attention to plans we can put in place for when we can resume activities.
Stay safe
< GO BACK