The spotlight will not shine on Voyageur Days this summer due to health concerns surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.
With many town councillors indicating they would have done so two weeks ago, Mattawa's municipal politicians unanimously agreed to put off this year's planned edition of Voyageur Days until 2021.
Mattawa Mayor Dean Backer said during a conference call meeting of council the town would not put any potential attendees — especially their senior citizens — in harm's way.
"The risks are way too high."
Backer told councillors a consultation with Medical Officer of Health Dr. Jim Chirico and North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit staff lasted "about five seconds."
According to the mayor, the stance of the health officials was crystal clear. They said, "This would not be a good idea."
Councillor Laura Ross was credited by the mayor as a "voice of reason," in discussing the cancellation of the festival.
"Everybody knew this had to happen," said Ross. "It's the safest thing for our community."
Recreation & Facilities Services Manager Lucie Desrochers says refunds will be available to visitors who were planning to attend. Desrochers indicated the town will get its money back as far as bands, although Backer clarified there will be some lost revenue with respect to advertising.
She says the decision was made "with heavy hearts."
The lineup for the annual party weekend in Mattawa was to include a country night Friday with tribute bands Mountain Music (Alabama), Fresh Horse (Garth Brooks) and Chicken Friend (Zac Brown Band).
The Saturday of what would have been the 23rd Voyageur Days would have seen festival attendees rock the night away with Trilogy Classics (Journey, Foreigner and Styx), Gunz N FN Rosez (Guns N Roses), Early Elton (Elton John), Fleetwood Nicks (Fleetwood Mac and Tom Petty) and Zed Leppard (Led Zeppelin and Def Leppard).
The Sunday stage was to be shared by Roadhouse, Chuck Labelle paying tribute to Paul McCartney, Abbamania, followed by a fireworks display.
When it all came down to it, Mayor Backer said there were "too many unanswered questions" when it came to the 2020 Voyageur Days.
"The well-being of our fans, artists, staff, vendors, partners and the surrounding community is our number one priority. We have, therefore, decided to hold off on having the festival this year, but will be ready to rock with you in July of 2021," said Desrochers.
