After 39 years of operation, and becoming one of the most celebration accordion festivals in the world, the Kimberley International Old Time Accordion Championship (KIOTAC) is no more.

KIOTAC executive committee members announced Dec. 31 that increased costs and fading revenues have combined to make the annual summer event no longer economically sustainable.

“It is with a heavy heart, that we the executive committee, make this announcement today.  The Kimberley International Old Time Accordion Championships will not continue its long history as an event. After a number of years of increasing costs and falling revenues, it has become apparent that the event is no longer economically sustainable. After 39 years it is quite apparent that attempting to host an exemplary and meaningful event would be a detraction from the many years of success that the event has entertained,” the KIOTAC committee stated in its letter.

“The Committee wishes to thank all of the loyal patrons, the hundreds of dedicated volunteers and members past and present, as well as sponsors; all of whom have historically made KIOTAC into the rich and meaningful event that hundreds of families and artists have grown to embrace over the past 39 years.

“The executive committee apologizes deeply for any inconvenience that this cancellation notice may bring. Keep Squeezing! Good bye to all,” concluded the letter, signed by Jeany Irvin, chair, and all of the Executive Committee – Bill Baerg, Donna Purves, Heather Smith, Gail MacLean, Adele Norman, Ed Tickles and Wendy Moore.

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