The fallout from devastating early July flooding has forced the cancellation of Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival in Dauphin for 2026.
While the Selo Festival Site in the Rural Municipality of Dauphin escaped direct flood damage, the severe impact on local infrastructure, specifically the local hospital, proved insurmountable for organizers.
The Dauphin Regional Health Centre’s emergency department sustained severe damage during the storms and remains closed. With emergency health-care services temporarily relocated to rural communities more than 30 minutes away, the festival’s board of directors determined they could not safely host the massive event.
“After consulting with the City of Dauphin, the RM of Dauphin, local MLA, Member of Parliament, and our insurance provider, our Board of Directors has determined that we cannot confidently provide the safe environment our performers, patrons, volunteers, sponsors, vendors and staff deserve,” the board said in a statement posted to social media.
The cancellation includes all scheduled events at the Selo Festival Site as well as the annual parade through the City of Dauphin.
The City of Dauphin, the RM of Dauphin, and several neighbouring municipalities remain under local states of emergency following the deluge that impacted homes, businesses, farms, and critical infrastructure across the Parkland region.
“Our hearts remain with everyone across the Parkland region, who have been impacted by flooding, and the local State of Emergency,” the board added.
Those who have already purchased day, weekend, or camping passes can roll their tickets over to the 2027 festival, or opt for a full refund.
Organizers say detailed information regarding the rollover and refund processes will be posted to the festival’s website and social media channels in the coming days.
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