The plan to reboot the Hibiscus Festival has been shifted by yet another year, but this time due to the impacts of the global pandemic. Suva and Lami special administrator Isikeli Tikoduadua said after much discussion with stakeholders it was decided not to hold the event this year.

The Hibiscus festival did not take place in 2019. A separate committee from the previous body was set up but a venue could not be confirmed.

It was then announced that the Hibiscus Festival would be held in 2020 along the same time as the 50th celebrations of Independence.

“We were looking forward to the Hibiscus this year. Everything was set in motion but we have come to realise that the large economic impact may not allow us to have a feasible event this year,” Mr Tikoduadua said.

“Our focus now is getting the city of Suva ready for the Independence Day celebrations. We will carry out renovations and beautification projects soon.”

Meanwhile talks are underway for Albert Park to be the main venue for the October Independence celebrations.

It has been established that on October 10, 2020, Thurston Garden will be the venue for a food and music event. With the Suva annual Hibiscus festival ruled out this year, citizens of Suva will again be without the festival for two consecutive years.

Edited by Karalaini Waqanidrola

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