NDP MLA Jennifer Rice says new recovery funding will help local fairs, festivals and events resume in North Coast

PRINCE RUPERT – New Democrat MLA Jennifer Rice says new support from the BC New Democrat government will help local fairs, festivals and community events resume in North Coast.

“The pandemic made it more challenging for people to gather for events and enjoy all the arts and culture the North Coast has to offer,” said Jennifer Rice, MLA for North Coast. “This new funding will help support local fairs, festivals and events, allowing us all to safely come together again as a community.”

5 fairs, festivals, and events in the North Coast will benefit from this recovery funding.

Some examples include:

  • Tluu Xaada Naay gwii kyuuwee – The Trail to Canoe People’s House
  • BC Annual Dance Competition
  • Prince Rupert Regional Swim Meet
  • Edge of the World Music Festival
  • Tlell Fall Fair

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.

Learn More:

To see the list of recipients for the Fairs, Festivals, and Events Recovery Fund, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2021TACS0078-002377