The association said in a news release it is concerned with the lack of support the organizers of the popular event are receiving.
At a meeting last Wednesday, the board that runs Old Home Week voted unanimously to suspend the event this summer, pending resolution of an issue with Red Shores.
The board was notified its access to Red Shores’ parking lot for the midway would be reduced by 15 per cent this year. Red Shores needs the space to erect tents as part of hosting the World Driving Championship.
Related: Old Home Week in limbo; P.E.I. government says it will 'smooth' things out
The board said it agreed to this year’s reduction, but have received no assurances it would regain the space in 2018, which presents a financial worry.
TIAPEI president Robert Jourdain said the long-standing tradition brings thousands of visitors to the province each year.
“Old Home Week holds a special place in many Islander’s and visitors hearts,” said Jourdain. “To lose an iconic event such as this would be a loss and have a significant impact to the tourism industry of Prince Edward Island.”
From a tourism perspective, 129 years of families planning vacations on P.E.I. around Old Home Week must not be ignored, he added.
