MANITOULIN—Two popular Manitoulin Island events have received provincial funding towards this year’s activities.
Manitoulin Countryfest, being held in the town of Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands (NEMI) August 4-7, will receive $62,630 in funding. The Elemental Festival, to be held in Billings Township September 30-October 2, has received funding of $3,066. Both are receiving funding through the Celebrate Ontario program.
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, made the announcement of the 2016 Celebrate Ontario recipients on Monday. “Ontario is home to many unique and diverse festivals and events that showcase our province and attract visitors from all over the world,” he said in a release. “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.”
“Festivals and events are a major contributor to the economy in Ontario communities,” said Kathrin Delutis, chief executive officer, Festivals and Events Ontario. “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.”
