ROSSLAND – New Democrat MLA Katrine Conroy says new support from the BC New Democrat government will help local fairs, festivals and community events resume in the Kootenays.

“Sports and arts events in the Kootenays give us all something to look forward to every year,” said MLA Conroy. “COVID-19 has been incredibly difficult for the organizers of these events and all the people who love attending them. I’m glad that we’re able to support their work and make sure these events can continue into the future and keep enriching our communities.”

7 fairs, festivals, and events in the region will benefit from over $200,000 in recovery funding. Events and festivals like Between the Peaks and Arts & Music in the Park are among the recipients.

These fairs, festivals, and events are among the 680 events across the province supported by the BC New Democrat government’s investment. The government is providing nearly $30 million in one-time grants to eligible event organizers to support their efforts to resume safely. Grant amounts for each event are up to 20% of the total event budget, up to a maximum of $250,000.

Successful recipients demonstrated the economic and social benefits of their event, as well as strong local or regional support. Examples of eligible expenses include operational costs, health and safety measures, venue rental, marketing, wages and promotion.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, the New Democrat government has worked closely with B.C.’s tourism sector and provided $225 million in support to ensure businesses and non-profits can continue to draw visitors and benefit local communities for years to come.

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B.C. fairs, festivals and events benefit from recovery funding