Ontario Investing in 11 Festivals and Events in Lanark–Frontenac–Kingston

Funding will help attract visitors and strengthen the local economy

Press Release – MPP John Jordan, Lanark–Frontenac–Kingston

Ontario is investing over $322,000 through the 2026 Experience Ontario program to support 11 festivals and events in the Lanark–Frontenac–Kingston riding. This is part of a more than $20 million government investment to help municipalities and event organizers deliver high-quality programming and experiences for people of all ages.

John Jordan, MPP for Lanark–Frontenac–Kingston, made the announcement on May 5. “I was happy to see more investments from this government going into some of the most loved and well-attended events throughout Lanark–Frontenac–Kingston. Not only do these festivals bring dollars into local communities, they showcase the high-quality programming and experiences that residents of all ages can enjoy.”

“From Ontario’s charming small towns to its dazzling urban centres, festivals and events bring people together, create lasting memories and showcase the best of our communities,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “As we work to protect Ontario, these homegrown experiences play a vital role in celebrating our shared identity, bolstering main street businesses and ensuring our province remains a place people are inspired to explore — and proud to call home.”

The following local events are receiving funding support:

• $20,000 for the Spirit of the Drum Pow Wow in Smiths Falls
• $20,000 for the Stewart Park Festival in Perth
• $20,000 for the Almonte Celtfest
• $20,000 for the Puppets Up! International Puppet Festival in Almonte
• $55,000 for the Festival of Small Halls
• $20,000 for the Blue Skies Music Festival in Clarendon Station
• $167,000 for five Kingston events – Kick & Push Festival, Kingston Canadian Film Festival, Kingston WritersFest, Canada Day and Kingstonlicious

Experience Ontario 2026 is supporting festivals and events of all sizes across the province, strengthening tourism and supporting local economies while celebrating the people, places and traditions that make Ontario unique.

“We are grateful to Experience Ontario for supporting the 2026 Spirit of the Drum Pow Wow,” said Shawn Pankow, Mayor of the Town of Smiths Falls.” This investment helps us celebrate Indigenous culture, strengthen community connections, and welcome visitors to Smiths Falls for a truly meaningful and memorable experience.”

“The Stewart Park Festival has been part of this community for 35 years, and it really is something people care about,” said Cathy McNally, Director of Community Services for the Town of Perth. “It’s a tradition that is well loved and embraced, and it doesn’t happen without a huge amount of volunteer effort. We’re grateful to MPP John Jordan and the Province for this support. Funding like this helps us keep the energy of the festival strong and continue delivering the kind of experience people have come to expect.”

Quick facts

• Since 2018, the Experience Ontario program (formerly known as Reconnect Ontario and Celebrate Ontario) has supported more than 2,700 Ontario festivals and events.
• The government also supports festivals and events through the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund, which provides eligible organizations with funding for marketing and promotional costs.
• Tourism plays a critical role in the Ontario economy: in 2024, visitors to Ontario spent $33 billion and supported more than 300,000 jobs.