The Venetian Board pledged that safety would be paramount when it took custody of the Venetian Festival in the aftermath of the 1997 fireworks tragedy.  Due to the unprecedented threat of the coronavirus to the health, safety and welfare of our community and visitors, the Venetian Board is compelled to cancel the 2020 Charlevoix Venetian Festival.

Although we remain hopeful and optimistic that the coronavirus outbreak may soon trend favorably, facilitating the process of reopening our community, the continued health threat posed by mass gatherings is extreme. The population of downtown Charlevoix expands during the traditional Venetian week to a density similar to that of major U.S. cities.  Just one asymptomatic infected person, or the irresponsible actions of just one infected person, could expose hundreds and hundreds of people to the virus.

Those Venetian Games and similar activities which may be readily organized and staged, without mass gatherings, remain under consideration. In anticipation of our forthcoming victory over the coronavirus, Venetian may also consider a focused community celebration upon conclusion of the 2020 summer season, subject to community sentiment.  We will provide updates in all such regards.

We trust that Venetian’s spirit of community will reside in all who hold Charlevoix near and dear, as we come together for the benefit of one another, in this time of crisis.

VENETIAN BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dan Barron • Tom Bickersteth • Dean Davenport • Anne Golski • Kent Seymour • John Winn