For immediate release

April 17, 2026 (Fort McMurray, AB) – The Fort McMurray Food Festival is announcing the cancelation of the 2026 YMM Food Festival Patio Party due to the Heritage Shipyard’s closure because of ongoing flood mitigation work.

“Without a suitable and cost-effective, riverside venue, or adequate time to plan for an alternate location, we are unable to deliver the high-quality experience our community has come to expect,” says Evan Dizak, Festival Co-chair and Community and Corporate Relations Manager for Waypoints. “While we are disappointed, we hope to bring the YMM Patio Party back in 2027.”

The patio party has been a premier summer event in Fort McMurray’s social scene and, most importantly, a critical fundraiser that brings in more than $85,000 annually to support individuals and families who have experienced domestic, family and sexual violence through our charity partner, Waypoints.

The cancelation creates a funding gap for Waypoints, including operating Unity House Emergency Women’s Shelter and undertaking important building repairs.

Waypoints is exploring alternative ways to bridge the funding gap and welcomes support, partnerships and donations to help ensure essential services continue to meet the needs of community members whom Waypoints serves.

“We are incredibly grateful to the sponsors, volunteers and attendees who have made this event such a success over the years. Their support has made a meaningful difference in the lives of community members served by Waypoints.”

The Food Festival will continue to host spring, summer and Halloween Food Festival Pub Crawls, as well as Taste of YMM Eats in July and August, in support of Waypoints

Thank you for all your support.

Media Contact:
YMM Food Festival
Evan Dizak, Food Festival Co-chair and Waypoints Community and Corporate Relations Manager
780-750-8560
Evan.Dizak@Waypointswb.ca