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Province Investing $50 Million in Festivals and Events

Over 20 local events to receive funding from province

The Ontario government is investing nearly $50 million to help 439 events and festivals in the province. 

Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries Lisa MacLeod made the announcement today, noting the effect the pandemic has had on tourism and culture. 

"For more than a year, the pandemic has disproportionately impacted tourism and culture - two major industries that bring people together and our communities to life," said Minister MacLeod. "Increasing our annual support for festival and events will give the sector a much-needed boost as we continue to deal with the effects of COVID-19. Our government is supporting organizations that are finding new ways to safely engage and reconnect Ontarians with their local communities while creating local jobs."

The province is providing $43 million to events and festivals through the Reconnect Festival and Event program. 

About $6 million will go to Celebrate Ontario Blockbuster events, which will be used on large scale events that draw a significant amount of tourists. 

Over 20 local events will receive funds from the province, including the Pelham Summer Chill Series, Niagara Falls Music Week & New Year's Eve in the Falls and the Winter Festival of Lights. 

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