California-based Christian music festival Joshuafest took to their social media accounts on March 2nd to announce an indefinite hiatus of the festival after 16 years. Their hiatus is due to declining numbers, primarily because of the direction of Christian radio. Joshuafest has been a support for many alternative, rock, hip-hop, and punk bands that have previously had more support and evident radio play across the country. With more worship and comtemporary music being dominant on the radio, JoshuaFest's vision was not able to be as strongly supported. Here is the statement from the festival:
"Hey Guys, we wanted to let you know that Joshuafest is on indefinite hiatus. We've had a blast with all our friends and family since 2003. But the festival has ran its course.
Attendance has been steadily declining over the years, and financially we just can't justify to continue doing the event. Also, the face of Christian Music has changed drastically over the last few years. Now the only heavily supported genre on Christian radio is worship. And that's fine. But we started this festival to support music that the youth needed to hear. And frankly, Christian Rock and Hip Hop hardly have radio support like they used to.
We want to thank all of the staff and volunteers that sacrificed so much to make it happen every year. We're so thankful for what God has done over the years at Joshuafest. It's been a blast.
We Love You,
Aaron & Chris"
In response to this announcement, artists and fans came out to send their best wishes and express thankfulness for the festival - below is some of their reaction.
Joseph Rojas of Rockfest Records and Seventh Day Slumber commented:
"We are sad to see this. We've had so many amazing ministry opportunities at JoshuaFest! I've got a few JoshuaFest memories that I've shared with many and will last a lifetime. Thank you for all you have done. Btw, we feel what you are saying."
Fellow bandmate and producer, Jeremy Holderfield added:
"Thank you SO much for what you guys have given to the Christian music scene and for all the countless lives you were instrumental in saving. Seventh Day Slumber is a friend and fan always."
7eventh Time Down simply commented, "Thank you for having us!"
AsFireFalls shared:
"Always had a blast every year we got to perform and always stayed the whole weekend. Thanks alot to all the staff, volunteers and especially the fans of Joshuafest"
From late night music sets, to staff and volunteers praying and ministering to people, to fans camping the weekend out together, to artists sharing their testimonies, to bands playing fans favorite songs, and ultimately, to lives saved for Christ, Joshuafest will be missed and appreciated for all the ministry that has taken place from their base in California. Their website's bio sums up their vision well, stating:
"Joshua Fest exists to create an event that allows people from all walks of life to come together and worship Jesus. Our attendees can experience and interact with some of thier favorite Christian Artists and discover new artists. Joshua Fest is a safe, family-friendly environment, offering all styles of music that will connect with anyone, from worship, to punk, hardcore, indie-rock, and even techno."
If you are interested in listening to the variety and history of bands that have been a part of their line-up, a Spotify playlist that was made to commeroate the festival can be found
here.
