Popular Windsor-Essex festival Carrousel of the Nations secures $20K from province

Carrousel of the Nations has been named best festival and event by Attractions Ontario for the last three years

A popular Windsor-Essex festival, considered one of Ontario’s premier events, has received a funding boost from the provincial government.

The Multicultural Council of Windsor and Essex County has been granted $20,000 through the 2026 Experience Ontario program to support this year’s Carrousel of the Nations.

The funding is a “tremendous boost” for the event, “and for the entire community,” said Fred Francis, the multicultural council’s executive director.

“These investments help increase our marketing efforts, celebrate the rich cultural diversity that defines our region, support cultural groups, and create unforgettable experiences for residents and visitors alike.”

MPP Andrew Dowie (PC — Windsor-Tecumseh) said he “couldn’t be happier” that his government is supporting Carousel of the Nations.

“Think of all of the festivals that have the potential to attract people into our community. Carrousel is right up there. There’s not a single event like it in Ontario, maybe not even throughout the country.”

In addition, the multicultural council will receive $30,000 through the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund to support the development and presentation of this year’s Carrousel of the Nations.

“From Ontario’s charming small towns to its dazzling urban centres, festivals and events bring people together,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, in a written statement.

“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.”

Carrousel of the Nations has been named best festival and event by Attractions Ontario for the last three years, beating out roughly 2,000 events from across the province.

This year, the two-weekend festival will run June 12-14 and June 19-21.

By Taylor Campbell, Windsor Star