COQUITLAM – New Democrat MLAs Fin Donnelly and Selina Robinson are announcing recipients of provincial funding to help make sure local fairs, festivals and other events continue throughout 2023 and 2024.

“Whether it’s sports, culture, or entertainment, festivals and events in our community bring much excitement and connection to people in the Tri-Cities.” said Fin Donnelly, MLA for Coquitlam-Burke Mountain. “Events have faced many challenges in recent years which is why I’m happy our government is ensuring local events continue.”

In Coquitlam, 10 events are receiving a total of $268,600, including $46,600 for the ScotFestBC: British Columbia Highland Games + World Musical Festival, and $40,800 for the Festival du Bois in Maillardville.

There is $450,900 total going to the Tri-Cities.

“Events and festivals in our community bring people together, create a sense of belonging and pride, and showcase the unique diversity of our region,” said Selina Robinson, MLA for Coquitlam-Maillardville. “That’s why supporting fairs and festivals is so important – it helps build stronger, more vibrant communities that are inclusive and welcoming to all.”

This investment into local events is part of the $30 million in one-time grants the province pledged for Fairs, Festivals, and Events to continue the recovery of a vibrant and strong tourism industry and support our innovative arts industry in B.C.

This builds upon the success of the BC Fairs, Festivals and Events Program funding in 2021, which provided one-time grants for events to safely return after facing the covid-19 pandemic. These grants for 2023 will support a range of events in locations all over B.C., and associated event costs.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/28246

A backgrounder with event locations and funding information follows: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/tourism-immigration/tourism-resources/tourism-funding-programs/fairs-festivals-events-fund