Ontario Bolsters Cultural Tourism with $8M Investment

The Ontario government has announced a significant $8 million investment over the next three years to enhance cultural tourism across the province. This strategic funding aims to support various arts, heritage, and cultural organizations through the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund (OCAF), promoting the creation and hosting of premier events.

This year, $2.4 million of the allocated funds will benefit 40 organizations, aiding in event promotions and increasing local economic activity and job creation. Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, highlighted the importance of cultural events in providing memorable experiences for both residents and visitors, asserting that these investments would stimulate local economies and enhance Ontario’s cultural offerings.

The announcement was made at Theatre Aquarius in Hamilton, which received $60,000 to support its 50th anniversary season. The season features the premiere of "Beautiful Scars," a musical adaptation of Tom Wilson's book, celebrating Indigenous identity and local history.

This initiative coincides with OCAF's 25th anniversary, a period during which it has supported over 900 events and attracted more than 91 million attendees. OCAF’s unique model of partially repayable loans ensures continued investment in cultural tourism, with every government dollar generating substantial additional spending in the sector.