Celebrate Ontario Program Boosting Local Tourism and Creating Jobs.
According to a press release sent to ethiofidel.com from the Ministry, Ontario is investing $15.3 million to support 200 festivals and events across the province that will draw tourists, stimulate local economies and create jobs.
Michael Coteau, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, announced 2016 Celebrate Ontario recipients. He was joined by representatives from Peterborough Musicfest, one of North America’s largest free outdoor music festivals, which is receiving support for its 30th anniversary season.
Festivals and events showcase Ontario’s culture, heritage and diversity. This investment will help organizers to enhance their programs, activities and services so they can attract more tourists and increase visitor spending.
Investing in festivals and events is part of the government’s economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes investing in talent and skills, including helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality college and university education. The plan is making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario’s history and investing in a low- carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement.
” Ontario is home to many unique and diverse festivals and events that showcase our province and attract visitors from all over the world. I’m proud that through Celebrate Ontario, our government continues to support this vibrant sector. Our investment will help festivals and events offer new and expanded experiences that will support local economic growth, create jobs and draw tourists to communities across the province.” says Michael Coteau Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport
Kathrin Delutis, Chief Executive Officer, Festivals and Events Ontario says “Festivals and events are a major contributor to the economy in Ontario communities. With hundreds of festivals taking place each year, they not only drive tourism but support tens of thousands of jobs each year. Support from the Province of Ontario through Celebrate Ontario helps festivals and events to provide great experiences for visitors to Ontario.”
QUICK FACTS
Every year, festivals and events support tens of thousands of jobs and generate millions of dollars in revenue.
According to past recipients, every $1 of Celebrate Ontario funding triggers about $18 of visitor expenditures.
Since 2007, Celebrate Ontario has committed support to more than 1,900 festivals and events across the province.
Photo from Ministery of Tourism, Culture and Sport
