NANAIMO – New Democrat MLAs Sheila Malcolmson and Doug Routley say that funding will help ensure local fairs, festivals and events can provide fun and excitement for residents and visitors alike.

“Nanaimo’s events bring people from all over to enjoy arts, sports, nature, food, culture, and most of all, community,” said Sheila Malcolmson, MLA for Nanaimo. “With over $158,000 in provincial funding, organizers can continue to put on high-quality, exciting events in bringing locals and visitors alike together.”

In Nanaimo and the North Cowichan region, 29 events are receiving over $158,000 in funding, including the Nanaimo Blues Festival, Ladysmith Festival of Lights, and Gabriola Theatre Festival.

“People in our community are always looking for events and activities to enjoy close to home,” said Doug Routley, MLA for Nanaimo-North Cowichan. “This funding will help make sure people can find things to do that the love, without having to travel far to find it.”

Across B.C., $15 million in funding will support 1114 fairs, festivals, and events in 2024 and 2025.

Since 2021, the BC New Democrat government has provided $80 million through the Fairs, Festivals, and Events Fund, helping event organizers to overcome ongoing challenges and ensure fun experiences are available for residents and visitors around the province.

Find a full list of events funded at: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/tourism-immigration/tourism-resources/tourism-funding-programs/fairs-festivals-events-fund#recipients