NEWS RELEASE
SIMCOE NORTH MPP JILL DUNLOP
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The Ontario government is supporting the growth and sustainability of cultural tourism, creating jobs, and boosting the local economy in the City of Orillia.
Jill Dunlop, MPP for Simcoe North, announced today that Mariposa Folk Festival will receive $60,000 in funding through the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund (OCAF).
“Our government understands the power of cultural events like the Mariposa Folk Festival to drive tourism, create jobs, and foster a strong sense of community. This funding is a testament to the value of arts and culture in Ontario and its role in supporting our economy. The festival brings thousands of visitors to Orillia each year, boosting local businesses, supporting local talent, and enriching the cultural fabric of our region. We are proud to support the continued growth of this iconic event.” — Jill Dunlop, MPP for Simcoe North
The Ontario government, through OCAF, is supporting Mariposa Folk Festival to develop, promote and present the 65th anniversary of the Mariposa Folk Festival with special programming taking place July 4 to 6, 2025 at Tudhope Park on the shores of Lake Couchiching in Orillia. The anniversary festival will include over 60 acts appearing on 11 stages, plus camping for over 1,000 attendees, food vendors, artisans’ village, community village, Artists’ Studio Point, and Children’s Folk Play.
Today’s funding announcement is part of the government’s overall investment of $6 million into OCAF projects across the province over the next three years.
“Cultural tourism events across Ontario enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike by providing unique experiences that showcase the best that local communities have to offer,” said Stan Cho, minister of tourism, culture and gaming. “The investments that our government is making in and through OCAF will help to bring these exceptional events to life, while boosting the local economy, attracting visitors and enabling patrons of all ages to experience distinct programming that will create lifelong memories.”
“Mariposa Folk Festival is grateful to the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund and the Government of Ontario for their support. This funding will allow the festival to celebrate its 65-year history, with special, commemorative events at the festival and in the community. Investing in the arts enriches the lives of Ontarians and has a significant impact on the local economy.” — Pam Carter, president, Mariposa Folk Festival (formerly known as Mariposa Folk Foundation)
OCAF funds are provided as partially repayable loans, which enable even more projects to be supported. For every $1 that the Ontario government invests, $1.69 is in turn invested in cultural tourism.
Quick facts
- This year marks the 25th anniversary of OCAF. Since 1999, it has supported more than 950 events, festivals and exhibitions across Ontario, which have attracted over 91 million attendees.
- OCAF provides support to cultural tourism events that range in size from large art and music festivals to smaller events that celebrate local Ontario culture and heritage.
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