Important Announcement Regarding the 2025 Friendly Islands Tongan Festival

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 24, 2025

Important Announcement Regarding the 2025 Friendly Islands Tongan Festival

Salt Lake City, UT — After much reflection and heartfelt discussion with our Board of

Directors, community leaders, and city and county officials, the Friendly Island Tongan

Festival Committee has made the hard decision to cancel this year’s festival, originally

scheduled for August 7–9, 2025.

Our decision comes in light of recent tragedies at other public events, which have

understandably raised concerns about the safety of large community gatherings. While we

had every intention of moving forward, we believe it would be unwise to host the festival at

a time when that sense of security feels uncertain. Above all, our priority is the safety and

well-being of our community.

This decision also took into consideration our vendors and small businesses, many of

whom rely on the festival for income. Given everything that’s happened, we anticipate the

turnout may not be what it typically is. The last thing we want is for anyone to invest time,

money, and energy into an event that can’t deliver the return they need.

While safety was our primary concern, we’d be remiss not to acknowledge the added

challenge of recent funding cuts and budget limitations. Like many community

organizations, we’ve been affected by shifts in both state and federal funding. These factors,

combined with the safety concerns, made it clear that moving forward this year would not

allow us to host the kind of festival experience our community deserves and expects.

Vendors who have already submitted payments will receive full refunds, and we’ll be

reaching out personally to ensure that happens. If you need help or have questions, please

feel free to contact Ivoni M. Nash, our festival Committee Chair.

The Friendly Island Tongan Festival will return next year, stronger and more rooted in

purpose than ever. Mark your calendars for August 13–15, 2026. We look forward to

gathering in joy and unity when the time is right.

Thank you for your understanding, your trust, and your love for our community.

Contact:

Ivoni Malohifo’ou Nash

Chair, Friendly Island Tongan Festival Committee

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