Waypoints announced the return of the Fort McMurray Food Festival presented by Suncor this summer.
The fourth-annual food fest includes some modifications that follow guidelines from Alberta Health Services (AHS) relating to COVID-19.
All proceeds from the event, which runs primarily from July 23-27, 2020, will support Waypoints.
The local non-profit organization provides support for individuals and families escaping domestic violence, abuse, assault and homelessness.
Waypoints Board Chair Cliff Dimm said the group is proud to have Suncor as its title sponsor.
“We’re grateful to Suncor for once again stepping up and being a great community partner. And to all of our local vendors, partners, and to the incredible volunteers that make the Festival happen.”
Suncor partnered with Waypoints for the food festival since its inception in 2017.
Modified food festival
The festival highlights local restaurants and other food establishments in the region.
With the economic downturn, COVID-19, and the flood the Food Festival will collaborate with participants to cover costs.
Len Savoy, Suncor’s Manager of Stakeholder Relations and Community Partnerships, said the company also provided a professional advisor on health and safety.
They will support organizers on following COVID-19 safety protocols for volunteers, staff, and community members.
“Suncor is proud to support the Food Festival. This will be an event that safely brings people together, promotes local businesses, and helps reconnect the community.”
The Food Festival aims to create a donation for Waypoints.
Community members shared their excitement about the return of the Food Festival.
Volunteer co-chair and RMWB Councillor Krista Balsom said Suncor showed a strong commitment to the Festival and safety.
“It was a natural fit when [Suncor] also offered to support the committee with a health and safety professional to advise us on how to carry out our festival in a safe way that will protect our community.”
Clarence Buchanan, the co-chair for the Festival, is also excited.
“Although this year’s events are not exactly what we had in mind when we had our first committee meeting in January, I’m very pleased with the creative ideas and innovations the team has come up with to continue to celebrate the best of food and entertainment in our region and support such an amazing cause.”
The following is a list of popular events scheduled to return in 2020:
- Taste of YMM Eats presented by Suncor: July 15-31
- Best Pub Food Club: July 24
- Anzac Beach Party: July 25
- Virtual Patio Party presented by Coldwell Banker Fort McMurray: July 25
- Strongman Community Breakfast presented by MacDonald Island Park: July 26
- Food Festival Golf Classic presented by A.P.E. Maintenance: July 27
Within the events are several options for all ages, families, and 18+ adults with modifications to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.
For more information about sponsorship, volunteering, vendors, and the events go to the Fort McMurray Food Festival website.
