Squidfest fails to recoup costs 

By Mark Squibb

Turns out, the 2025 Holyrood Squidfest squirted a shot of red ink last summer, and council members say bad weather and a venue change is largely to blame.

Due to ongoing work at the Festival Grounds, many events were relocated to the town’s softball field.

Recreation lead councillor Sandra Crawley broached the subject during a recreation update to council earlier this year, noting a report on the Squidfest’s financials was discussed at a recent recreation committee meeting.

“The Town did incur a deficit, however, the committee is optimistic that upon the return to the festival grounds in 2026, the festival will once again generate profit,” said Crawley.

The report made some recommendations, she added, that were noted ahead of planning for the 2026 festival, tentatively scheduled for July 15 thru to 19.

“There were a number of reasons for that deficit for the 2025 Squidfest,” said Mayor Laura Crawley. “Moving location, weather – there were some days that the weather just did not cooperate, so people weren’t out— and that’s it. Some years you get it, and some years you don’t.”

The Shoreline reached out to Town staff following the meeting, and while staff didn’t release the deficit amount, they did share measures that will be implemented to make Squidfest 2026 a success, including a return to the Festival Grounds, projected increase in outreach and ticket sales, and introduction of new acts and events, all with the hope of drawing larger crowds.

Staff say a small number of outstanding credits and invoices are now being finalized.