Supporting Ottawa’s Festivals and Events

Celebrate Ontario Program Boosting Local Tourism and Creating Jobs Ontario is supporting festivals and events and events in Ottawa that will draw tourists, stimulate local economies and create jobs. “The Celebrate Ontario program puts the spotlight on Ottawa, drawing visitors and residents to enjoy and discover our unique region in new and exciting ways. Through our government’s support, we are helping local festivals and events in Ottawa grow, create jobs and stimulate our local economy.” — Yasir Naqvi, MPP Ottawa Centre and Madeleine Meilleur, MPP Ottawa Vanier. Through the Celebrate Ontario 2016 program, the province is helping 25 festivals and events in Ottawa that showcase Ontario’s culture, heritage and diversity, while also enhancing visitor experiences and increasing attendance. “This investment in Ottawa’s festivals and events by the Province of Ontario through Celebrate Ontario fuels a boost to our economy that supports thousands of jobs. Ottawa is known for the diverse, vibrant festivals and events that animate our neighbourhoods and showcase our community to the world. They create unique, fun moments that enhance visitor experiences and drive tourism,” said Sean Wilson, President, Ottawa Festivals. 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.” — Michael Coteau, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport