Ajax summer festival a go after $35,000 investment

The organizers of a popular summer festival say the festivities are set to proceed following a $35,000 investment from the provincial government.

Today, Whitby MPP Lorne Coe announced that the province will support the upcoming Durham Summer Fest 2026, slated to take place on Aug. 22 and 23 at Ajax Downs.

“The Ontario government is continuing to support the region of Durham’s local events by investing $35,000 and Durham Summers Fest 2026,” Coe said in a video.

“This funding, delivered through the Ontario Music Investment Fund and the Ontario Arts Council, will support over 40 performances, multicultural cuisine, and vendors.”

The event will be organized and hosted by BMK Events & Promotions Inc., which hosted last year’s festival.

Durham Summer Fest 2025

In a video, Bilal Khan, director of programming and CEO of BMK, thanked the province.

“We are thrilled to receive this support again,” he said, adding that this is the second year the province has supported the event.

Khan also said the funding will allow organizers to bring “bigger acts, a better experience and more excitement” to this year’s festival.

On its social media page, BMK also said the festival helps create jobs, support local businesses, and showcase local talent.

Nancy Henry, Ajax’s ward 2 councillor, called the festival a “highlight for residents.”

“Durham Summer Fest is a highlight for residents in Ajax and across the Durham region,” she said in the video.

“It’s a chance to celebrate local talent, support businesses, and enjoy a weekend of music and fun. I’m grateful to the Ontario government for once again investing in our community’s cultural life.”

By Ashley Newport, insauga