General News
Local festivals benefit from provincial funding
May 28, 2026 · 0 Comments
By Brian Lockhart
The province of Ontario is investing $259,270 through the 2026 Experience Ontario program to support ten festivals and events in Simcoe-Grey.
In total, the provinces are delivering more than $20 million to help municipalities and even organizers deliver high-quality programming and experiences for people of all ages.
“From Ontario’s charming towns to its dazzling urban centres, festivals and events bring people together, create lasting memories and showcase the best of our communities,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “As we work to protect Ontario, these homegrown experiences play a vital role in celebrating our shared identity, bolstering main street businesses and ensuring our province remains a place people are inspired to explore, and proud to call home.”
Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson announced that the following local events are receiving funding support:
· 2026 Stonebridge Wasaga Beach Blues festival – $20,000
· Blue Mountain Film & Media Festival – $55,00
· Collingwood Fashion Week – $20,000
· Barrie Fair 2026 – $20,000
· Clearview’s Small Halls Festival – $19,270
· Creemore Arts Fest 2026 – $20,000
· Wasaga Beach Hootenanny and Mayor’s Rodeo – $20,000
· Collingwood Pride 2026 – $55,000
· Sidelaunch Days – $20,000
· Frost and Flavour Festival – $ 10,000
“Festivals and events are an important part of community life across Simcoe-Grey,” said MPP Brian Saunderson. “They support local businesses, attract visitors, and showcase the people and communities that make this region such a special place to live and visit. This investment will help local organizations continue delivering experiences that strengthen our economy and bring people together.
Since 2018, the Experience Ontario program has supported more than 2,700 festivals and events across the province.
Tourism plays a critical role in the Ontario economy. In 2024, visitors to Ontario spent $33 billion and supported more than 300,000 jobs.
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