42nd-annual Hiawatha Music Festival canceled

MARQUETTE — One of the premier music festivals in the area has been canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Hiawatha Music Festival, which was scheduled for its 42nd consecutive year, has been canceled. The decision comes amid concerns regarding public health, and the uncertainty of the COVID–19 crisis.

“It’s quite a momentous occasion, very sad to say the least,” said Michael Reed, board member for the Hiawatha Music Co-Op. “I can assure you there were a lot of emotions in making this decision. Safety is the most important thing for us right now. That was a large influence in the board’s behavior and board’s decision.”

Part of the decision was influenced by the city of Marquette shutting down its parks, which includes the festival’s site, Tourist Park.

This, in addition to the expected number of volunteers, performers, attendees, and food vendors, led the Board of Directors to cancel the festival.

Barring unforeseen circumstances, the Hiawatha Music Co–Op is planning to move forward with the festival in 2021.

You can still find plenty of traditional music, along with performer information and more at their website here.