Why are so many Canadian festivals struggling or cancelling?
Some of Canada's most iconic arts festivals are cancelling or scaling back as they weather financial struggles. Many festival organizers say they are still recouping losses from COVID-19 pandemic shutdowns while they contend with inflation, increased competition and a loss of corporate sponsors.
![Why are so many Canadian festivals struggling or cancelling?](https://i.cbc.ca/1.7165134.1712342678!/cpImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/16x9_620/que-just-for-laughs-20240305.jpg)
![The Just for Laughs theatre is seen Tuesday, March 5, 2024 in Montreal. The company that runs the annual comedy festival has filed for bankruptcy protection. Two people in jackets on a sidewalk in front of a building that says "Just for laughs."](https://i.cbc.ca/1.7165134.1712342678!/cpImage/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/16x9_620/que-just-for-laughs-20240305.jpg)
Some of Canada's most iconic arts festivals are cancelling or scaling back as they weather financial struggles. Many festival organizers say they are still recouping losses from COVID-19 pandemic shutdowns while they contend with inflation, increased competition and a loss of corporate sponsors.