Ontario Supporting York Pride Festival in Newmarket—Aurora

Funding will attract visitors to Newmarket—Aurora and boost local economy

Newmarket – The Ontario government is investing $20,000 through the Experience Ontario 2024 program to support the York Pride Festival in Newmarket. This is a part of the $19.5 million investment that is being made in communities across the province to encourage Ontarians to explore all that these communities have to offer – staying longer in local accommodations, eating in restaurants, and supporting small businesses.

“For 8 years, the York Pride Festival and Parade has played an important role in Newmarket, and across York Region for 24 years, by celebrating diversity and inclusion through active community engagement and programming,” said Dawn Gallagher Murphy, MPP for Newmarket—Aurora. “I am thrilled that our government is investing in the York Pride Festival. Not only does the festival increase local tourism, but it also creates a positive and memorable experience for families and everyone attending.”

“Festivals and events enrich the lives of Ontarians and strengthen local economies,” said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “I am proud that our government is supporting festival and event organizers through the Experience Ontario 2024 program, helping them to create unique local experiences that will attract visitors, create jobs and promote economic development.”

“York Pride’s 24th festival, hosted in Newmarket from June 14 to 15, 2024, showcases emerging queer artists and allies, local businesses, and community organizations,” said Jacob Gal Director of Operations, York Pride. “Expected attendance exceeds 35,000 residents and attracts 12,000 tourists, generating over $1 million in visitor spending. Looking ahead to its 25th milestone in 2025, initiatives like the 360 Pride Experience aim to enhance the 2SLGBTQ+ experience, positioning Ontario as the premier destination for living, working, and leisure.”

QUICK FACTS

• This program, originally established in 2007 as Celebrate Ontario, has invested more than $284 million in over 3,600 Ontario festivals and events.
• Festivals and events are also supported through the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund (OCAF), which provides eligible organizations with funding for marketing and promotional costs.
• Tourism makes significant contributions to Ontario’s economy, supporting approximately 360,000 jobs and generating over $35 billion of economic activity.

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MEDIA CONTACTS                                                            

Teena Bogner

Constituency Manager

Email: Dawn.GallagherMurphy@pc.ola.org Phone: 905-853-9889