Summerfest and Summer Chill Series awarded on provincial stage
Events recognized by Festival and Events Ontario
Pelham is celebrating big wins a few months ahead of festival season.
In late February, the town received three awards at Festivals and Events Ontario’s SUSTAIN conference in Kitchener.
Both Pelham Summerfest and the Pelham Summer Chill Series have once again been named among the Top 100 Festivals and Events in Ontario, recognizing their continued excellence and positive impact on Pelham, reads a news release from the town.
As well, the Pelham Summer Chill Series was awarded the Best Festival or Event Series with a Budget of $100,000 or less, “highlighting the event’s exceptional ability through the collaborative event to deliver high-quality programming, community engagement and positive economic impact while operating within a modest budget,” the town said in its release.
“These awards are a celebration of what a small and engaged community can achieve when volunteers and residents come together,” said Mayor Marvin Junkin.
“Pelham’s festivals reflect the creativity, collaboration, and spirit that define small-town Ontario. Being recognized among the province’s best shows that communities like ours can create exceptional experiences we can be proud of,” he added.
The awards were presented February 25, where staff from Pelham’s recreation, culture and wellness department accepted the honours on behalf of the municipality and the many volunteers who support the annual events.
Festivals and events from across Ontario were evaluated by an independent panel of judges, with winners selected for their innovation, community impact, and excellence in event delivery, explains the town’s news release.
“It is incredibly rewarding to see Pelham’s signature events recognized once again at the provincial level,” said Vickie vanRavenswaay, director of recreation, culture and wellness.
“These awards reflect the dedication of the volunteers, community partners, businesses, and staff who work tirelessly to create memorable experiences for residents and visitors,” said vanRavenswaay.
“Pelham Summerfest and the Summer Chill Series bring people together in ways that showcase the heart of Pelham, and the team is excited to continue building on that momentum again this year,” she added.
Pelham has a history of recognition from FEO, including multiple Top 100 awards for both Pelham Summerfest and the Pelham Summer Chill Series, as well as several achievement awards over the past decade.
The continued acknowledgement underscores the town’s commitment to delivering high-quality, community-focused events that support culture and tourism, the town said
The Summer Chill series, at Peace Park, runs on Tuesdays from June to September.
Pelham Summerfest takes place in July at Peace Park and its surrounding area in downtown Fonthill.
By PelhamToday Staff
Festivals and Events Ontario is a non-profit organization that has been representing the festivals and events industry in Ontario for 30 years.
