Ontario Agritourism

Voyageur Days, Carnaval des Compagnons and Smoke ‘N’ Spurs festival receive provincial funding

The Ontario government is spending $165,000 in three local festivals through the Experience Ontario 2026 program, providing support aimed at boosting tourism and economic activity. The funding is split evenly among Mattawa Voyageur Days, Carnaval des Compagnons, and the Smoke ‘N’ Spurs Festival

Three Nipissing-area events are set to receive a combined $165,000 from the province under the Experience Ontario 2026 program. Each festival will get $55,000 as organizers prepare for upcoming editions designed to draw visitors and support local businesses.

This support provides municipalities and event organizers with support for festivals and events that have a positive economic impact on tourism.

“Today’s funding will enhance tourism, create jobs, and celebrate the best of Nipissing,” said MPP Vic Fedeli.

Funding includes:

  • $55,000 for the Town of Mattawa for Mattawa Voyageur Days.
  • $55,000 for les Compagnons for the Carnaval des Compagnons.
  • $55,000 for Smoke ‘N’ Spurs Festival LTD for the Smoke ‘N’ Spurs Festival.

Mattawa is holding its 27th annual Voyageur Days.

“Held the last weekend of July, the event brings in thousands of people from all over,” says Mayor Ray Bélanger. “Support from the Experience Ontario Program allows the Town to bring in fresh talent and events every year, and this year’s line-up is no exception.”

This funding will assist us in continuing to grow the festival and provide a safe, welcoming, and accessible festival to be enjoyed by families,” added Garry Anderson, Smoke ‘N’ Spurs Festival owner.

This year, the Experience Ontario program is supporting festivals and events across the province through two funding streams. The brand-new Capacity Building stream provides funding support specifically designed for new, first-time festivals and events, and the Established Events stream, which supports recurring Ontario festivals and events, including those that may have previously received Experience Ontario funding

By BayToday Staff