Province antes up cash for folk fest, pirate party and witches walk
‘These homegrown experiences play a vital role in celebrating our shared identity (and) bolstering main street businesses,’ says MPP Jill Dunlop
Ontario is investing $168,000.00 through the 2026 Experience Ontario program to support 4 festivals and events in Simcoe North. 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.”
Jill Dunlop, MPP for Simcoe North, announced today that the following local events are receiving funding support:
- $125,000 for Orillia’s Mariposa Folk Festival
- $20,000 for Penetanguishene’s 79th Annual Winterama
- $12,550 for Orillia’s Pirate Party
- $10,450 for Severn’s Witches Walk Weekend
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.
“The province is proud to support festivals and events across Simcoe North through the 2026 Experience Ontario program, helping strengthen local tourism, celebrate our communities, and create meaningful economic opportunities for local businesses,” said Jill Dunlop, MPP for Simcoe North.
“This investment will help the organizers enhance visitor experiences, attract tourism to our region, and showcase the unique culture, talent, and hospitality that make Simcoe North such a special place to visit. Festivals and community events play an important role in bringing people together while supporting restaurants, accommodations, retailers, and local jobs. I am excited to see the positive impact these events will continue to have on our communities and everyone who attends them.”
“Mariposa Folk Festival appreciates the generous support from the Province of Ontario’s Experience program. The Experience program recognizes the tremendous economic impact of investing in arts and culture. The cost of producing the Mariposa Folk Festival has more than doubled in the past eight years and the Experience grant helps the Festival continue to invest in the local community, to attract tourism dollars, and to provide the highest calibre live music event possible. Mariposa recently won the Canadian Live Music Award for Best Medium-Sized Festival, and we could not have done it without the support of Experience and the Ontario government,” said Pam Carter, President of Mariposa Folk Festival.
“On behalf of Town Council and the Town of Penetanguishene, we extend our sincere thanks to the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming for its generous $20,000 contribution through the Experience Ontario program. This investment played a significant role in the success of our 78th Annual Winterama this past February, helping to enhance programming, support local businesses, and attract residents and visitors alike. Winterama is a cherished community tradition that celebrates our winter spirit and strengthens local tourism, and we are grateful for the Ministry’s continued support in ensuring this long-standing event remains vibrant and accessible for future generations,” said Mayor Doug Rawson, Town of Penetanguishene.
“The Experience Ontario grant is a testament to the Province’s commitment to vibrant, local celebrations. This support ensures that the Port of Orillia Pirate Party remains a premier, family friendly destination on Labour Day weekend, allowing us to offer high-quality entertainment and unique experiences entirely free of charge for residents and visitors alike,” said Allan Lafontaine, Executive Director, Orillia and District Chamber of Commerce.
“We are so excited to receive the Ontario Government Fund from Experience Ontario 2026. This will allow the Coldwater BIA to hire entertainers for the event, making the event more dynamic. The buskers and multiple bands will keep the tourists entertained for the entire evening. The fire entertainer and the Freak Show mesmerize the attendees on the street. We look forward to contracting these artists in the next Witches Walk and Trick or Treat. The Trick or Treat event will be comparatively engaging for the youth of our community and also tourists from the outskirts of our area. Music, games, cosplay and treats will be enjoyed by children and parents alike. As a two-day event, the village of Coldwater became a safe space to wonder and wander. Thank you to Jill Dunlop, MPP for Simcoe North and the Experience Ontario Team,” said Teddi-Lynn Whiteduck and Chelsea Kincaide, Event Committee.
By OrilliaMatters Staff
