Billy Denault is the MPP for Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke, (Billy Denault photo)
The Ontario government is investing $106,000 in seven local festivals and events across Renfrew–Nipissing–Pembroke through the 2025 Experience Ontario program. The funding is part of a province-wide initiative totaling nearly $20 million aimed at boosting tourism, supporting local businesses, and creating vibrant community events.
Billy Denault, MPP for Renfrew–Nipissing–Pembroke, made the announcement, highlighting the economic and cultural benefits of supporting local festivals. The funding will help organizers grow their events, attract more visitors, and encourage spending at local restaurants, shops, and accommodations.
The funded events include:
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$20,000 for the Beachburg Fair – Beachburg Agricultural Society
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$20,000 for the Palmer Rapids River Festival – Paddler Co-op
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$2,275 for Farm to Trail and Pints & Gourds – Town of Petawawa
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$20,000 for Downtown Pembroke Buskerfest – Pembroke Business Improvement Area
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$20,000 for the Guitars & Gasoline Music Festival – Calabogie Motorsports Park
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$3,868 for Canada Day celebrations – Township of Killaloe, Hagarty and Richards
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$20,000 for the Pembroke Multicultural Festival – Pembroke Public Library
“Festivals and events showcase the best of Ontario; its people and culture,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “They bring communities together and support local economies.”
Local organizers expressed their gratitude for the funding. Brenna Jansen, President of the Beachburg Agricultural Society, said the grant will help enhance programming and keep the 169-year-old fair a beloved tradition. Colton Charbonneau from the Township of Killaloe, Hagarty and Richards noted that the support will help make Canada Day celebrations something people look forward to each year.
Experience Ontario 2025 supports over 350 events across the province. Since 2021, the program has helped more than 2,000 festivals and events. In 2023 alone, tourism spending in Ontario reached $33 billion, supporting more than 325,000 jobs.
To learn more or apply for future funding, visit ontario.ca or email experienceontario@ontario.ca.
(Written by: Emma Butler)