The provincial government is investing more than half a million dollars to support festivals and events in the Huron-Bruce region, as part of a broader provincial strategy to promote tourism, fuel local economies, and celebrate community culture.
Through the 2025 Experience Ontario program, the province is providing $524,012 to seven major events and organizations across Huron and Bruce counties. The funding is part of a nearly $20 million province-wide investment to help event organizers grow their programming, attract more visitors, and drive spending in local restaurants, hotels, and retail businesses.
Huron-Bruce MPP Lisa Thompson says the funding is a vote of confidence in the creativity and community spirit found throughout the region. "These seven organizations are doing incredible work to bring people of all ages together and celebrate what makes our region unique," Thompson said. "This funding will help elevate their events and create memorable experiences that showcase the heart and charm of our local communities."
The local funding breakdown includes: $125,000 to the Blyth Centre for the Arts for the Blyth Festival Theatre, $125,000 to Drayton Entertainment for the Huron County Playhouse, $125,000 to the Lucknow and District Kinsmen Club for Lucknow’s Music in the Fields, $20,000 to the Kincardine Lighthouse Blues Festival, $20,000 to the Town of Goderich for the Goderich Salt & Harvest Festival, $54,012 to Port Elgin Pumpkinfest, and $55,000 to the Goderich Celtic Roots Festival.
Each of the events draws thousands of visitors annually, offering live performances, artisan markets, heritage programming, and food experiences that reflect the culture and vibrancy of Midwestern Ontario.
Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming Stan Cho said these types of events are key to the province’s economic and social vitality. "Festivals and events showcase the best of Ontario, its people, its stories and its culture, while inviting people from near and far to experience and enjoy our province," Cho said. "They help create local jobs, provide economic benefits and bring communities together."