After much discussion and with respect to the ever-changing uncertainty of the COVID-19 situation, the Michigan Irish Music Festival board of directors has made the difficult decision to cancel the 2020 festival. A variety of details were considered by the board, including the unknown timeline for allowing large gatherings and the comfort level of patrons who wish to attend.
“First and foremost, the safety of our volunteers, patrons, musicians, and vendors was the most important factor in this decision,” said president Chris Zahrt. “It is also important that we make this decision now due to the hundreds of details and months of planning required to produce the Festival.”
Information surrounding COVID-19 changes on a daily basis. The successful execution of the festival involves significant upfront planning and logistics with attendees, vendors, and entertainers from across Michigan, the country, and around the world.
“Everyone is facing challenging times right now, and in order to ensure the long-term success of our event and organization, this difficult decision was the best plan to allow the Festival to move forward,” said Zahrt. “Please stay safe, stay healthy, and know we all look forward to celebrating with you in 2021.”
For those that have purchased tickets in advance, the Festival will contact you within the next 14 days with details via email. The Festival is also communicating with sponsors, volunteers, musicians, and vendors to provide them with details regarding this decision.
The mission of the Michigan Irish Music Festival is to produce a quality Midwest Irish Music Festival that promotes Irish culture and heritage while enhancing the community through entertainment, tourism, education and philanthropy. The Festival is proud to support Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry and Kids’ Foot Basket with gifts of non-perishable food items and cash donations. Since 2008, due to the success of the St. Pat’s Party and the Festival, the Michigan Irish Music Festival has donated over $308,000 in cash and 21,000 pounds of food back to the community.
Follow the Festival on Facebook and online at www.michiganirish.org for FAQs, updates and details. For media information, call 231.683.2065.
