Organizers say Sarnia Bayfest taking hiatus

Bon Jovi's lead singer Jon Bon Jovi performs during the Rock in Rio music festival in Arganda del Rey on the outskirts of Madrid Friday June 4, 2010. (AP Photo/Paul White)

Bayfest, a popular music festival, has been suspended indefinitely because, organizers say, costs are climbing while sponsorship has been at a standstill.

In a statement released Monday, the Bayfest Festival of Performing Arts says the board of directors made the difficult decision at a recent annual general meeting.

The rising cost of bands, staffing, security, insurance and overall production are being blamed, as well as a lack of growth in sponsorship.

The festival, which has run for 14 years, has brought in millions of dollars for the local economy as well as raising over a million dollars for charitable organizations and scholarships.

Organizers say they will continue to run smaller charitable events, including concerts, The Yellow Hat Open Golf Tournament and the Rockin’ Rubber Ducky Race.