Funding will help attract visitors and strengthen Barrie-Innisfil’s economy
INNISFIL – Ontario is investing $55,000 through the 2026 Experience Ontario program to support festivals and events in Barrie-Innisfil. 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.
“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.”
Andrea Khanjin, MPP for Barrie-Innisfil, announced today that the following local event is receiving funding support:
- 55,000 for The Holiday Market at Friday Harbour
In total, Experience Ontario 2026 is supporting nearly 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.
“Tourism is an important economic driver in our community, supporting local jobs, businesses, and attractions,” said Andrea Khanjin, MPP for Barrie–Innisfil. “Our government’s $55,000 investment will help bring back The Holiday Market at Friday Harbour this year, enhancing the unique experiences that make our region a destination for residents and visitors from across Ontario and beyond. Investments like this strengthen the local economy and showcase the attractions and experiences our community has to offer.”
“As Friday Harbour continues to grow as a tourism destination, Experience Ontario funding plays an important role in supporting our ability to deliver world-class programming, such as The Holiday Market, presented annually by our community, creating memorable experiences for residents, guests, and visitors from across the region,” said Hani Roustom, CEO of Friday Harbour Resort. “The Government of Ontario’s investment in festivals and events supports local tourism and small businesses, strengthens community connections, and showcases the very best of Ontario.”
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.