SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival postponed

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected another huge festival in the province.

The 34th annual SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival has been postponed. It had been scheduled for July 3-12 in Saskatoon.

In a release Friday morning, the festival’s artistic director, Kevin Tobin, said the event is postponed until further notice.

“Our hearts go out to those who continue to be impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. We are inspired and thankful for the heroes working on the front lines to keep us safe,” said Tobin.

“From a festival perspective, we support initiatives that reduce the devastating impact the pandemic continues to have on our city and province. The Saskatchewan Jazz Festival is dedicated to supporting our artistic community, our economy, and to welcome and celebrate our community when it is safe to come together again.”

The release says festival organizers are exploring ideas to provide opportunities for artists and audiences to “share in a rich and moving musical experience” later this year, but no firm plans are in place.

The release says the festival organizers will be contacting those who have already bought 2020 Escape Gardens passes with refund options.

Information will be available at saskjazz.com and through the Saskatchewan Jazz Festival’s social media platforms.