Town approves new special events plan to revamp community celebrations

Town staff say they are “taking a community-first approach” with its newly approved Special Events Plan, hoping to empower organizers and celebrate diversity.

Town of Oakville staff say they have approved its new Special Events Plan, setting “a clear direction for how events will be supported, delivered, and funded in the years ahead.”

A town release says that more than 1,450 contributions from residents, organizers, staff, and representatives from Business Improvement Areas helped shape the plan.

Staff say the new plan “outlines a community-first approach to celebrations, supporting diverse groups, empowering community-led events and introducing a framework that is transparent, equitable and outcome-driven.”

The 2025 validation survey showed strong support for the plan’s direction, with endorsement of top priority actions ranging from 87 to 97 per cent.

While the plan states that possibly implementing a Community Events Grant Program should be a priority action, no timeline is given for next steps on the plan.

Highlights from the plan include:

• Key objectives: Strengthen internal systems and staff capacity while enhancing the overall event calendar to better meet community needs.
• Priority actions: Explore a Community Events Grant Program, streamline permitting and evaluation processes, enhance event promotion, support signature events such as Canada Day, and investment in event infrastructure upgrades in parks while investigating the feasibility for a new outdoor events venue.
• Funding model: Consolidate multiple funding streams into a single transparent program, with five-year agreements for legacy and BIA-led events already integrated into the Town’s base budget.

The plan, according to a press release, “reflects Oakville’s commitment to building a vibrant and inclusive community through events that bring people together and celebrate the town’s unique character.”

More specific details, though few, are listed on the Oakville Special Events Plan project page.

“Special events bring vibrancy to Oakville’s community life,” said Mayor Rob Burton. “They give us opportunities to connect with fellow residents, celebrate together, and create new friendships.”

Burton adds that “This plan reflects the valuable input of residents, event organizers, and community groups, resulting in a community-first approach that embraces inclusion.”

By Tyler Collins, OakvilleNews.org