Several county festivals will be receiving provincial funding in a bid to draw tourists, create jobs and grow the local economy.
Through the Celebrate Ontario 2014 program, the province is helping five festivals in Guelph and Wellington County that celebrate the region’s diversity, heritage and culture, while enhancing the visitor experience and increasing attendance.
Local festivals receiving Celebrate Ontario funding include:
– Guelph Jazz Festival, $85,000;
– Guelph and District Multicultural Festival, $22,312;
– Hillside Inside, $38,250;
– Fergus Scottish Festival, $21,505; and
– Elora Festival and Singers – $56,525.
Helping local festivals and events grow and thrive is part of the government’s economic plan that officials say is creating jobs for today and tomorrow.
The comprehensive plan and its six priorities focus on Ontario’s greatest strengths – its people and strategic partnerships, according to a News release issued by Guelph MPP Liz Sandals.
“Our government is proud to support Guelph and Wellington County’s festivals because we recognize their positive impact on tourism and our local economy,” Sandals said.
“Celebrate Ontario helps us put a spotlight on the rich culture and traditions that our region has to offer for residents and visitors to enjoy.”
Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, said, “Tourism is a billion dollar industry that supports over 300,000 jobs for Ontarians across the province – many of them youth.
“Through Celebrate Ontario, our government is attracting tourism into our regions that strengthen our local economies and build out provincial profile as a premier destination that offers exciting experiences for visitors and residents alike.”
