The COVID-19 pandemic has forced the cancellation of Nickel Days 2020.
The fair, scheduled to take place June 18-21, was officially called off April 29.
“Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic situation and for the safety of all Northern Manitobans, regretfully, Nickel Days 2020 has been cancelled,” said a message posted on the Nickel Days Facebook page around 5:15 p.m. Wednesday. “The 50th anniversary will be celebrated in June 2021. The board of directors will continue to meet in an effort to make the 50th the best Nickel Days yet. Stay well fairgoers.”
The four-day event, which includes the National King Miner Contest, dates back to 1970, the year Thompson was elevated from town to city status.
In addition to the King Miner contest, which pits competitors against each other in timed events based on traditional mining skills, the annual event also includes a Saturday night social with an out-of-town band - last year it was The Watchmen - the Lions Club parade, midway rides and games, a slo-pitch tournament and many other musical performances and activities.
The provincial government announced earlier April 29 that some non-essential businesses would be allowed to reopen May 4, but gatherings of more than 10 people are not expected to be allowed until mid-May at the earliest, with large gatherings and events off the table until at least September.
