After 17 years, the City of Portage la Prairie's decided to discontinue the Island of Lights display on Island Park.

Councillor Melissa Draycott says it likely isn't really a new announcement, noting Council indicated it was something they'd look at about a year ago.

"We did say last year that we were taking big considerations as to whether we would go forward with Island of Lights, just due to costs and upgrades required for the Island of Lights to continue. So, this year we've decided that last year was our last year, and thank you very much for the citizens and the sponsorship we've received over the many years."

Draycott points to declining attendance in recent years as a significant factor.

"In 2006, we saw about 18,000 people go through the show, but in the last few years we've seen that decline significantly -- around 8000 to 10,000 people, on average, per year. We do realize it's become a bit of a tradition, but due to the rising costs, and the amount of upgrades that would be required, that's where this decision has come from."