VICTORIA – New Democrat MLAs Grace Lore, Rob Fleming, and Murray Rankin say new support from the BC New Democrat government will help local fairs, festivals and community events resume in the South Island.
“These fun community gatherings are part of what makes Victoria a great place to live in and visit,” said Grace Lore, MLA for Victoria-Beacon Hill. “Whether it is Rifflandia or the Dragon Boat festival, there’s something for everyone and these grants will go a long way in making sure these fairs, festivals, and events are here to stay.”
“The pandemic wasn’t easy on the organizers of our local fairs and festivals, but we know how important it is for our community to be able to come together and celebrate their common interests,” said Rob Fleming, MLA for Victoria-Swan Lake. “I am glad that we were able to work with organizers to find ways to support their pandemic recovery so that people can continue to enjoy all that Victoria has to offer.”
Over 70 fairs, festivals, and events in the Greater Victoria area will benefit from over $2.5 million in recovery funding.
Some examples include:
- Rifflandia
- Saanich Fair
- Victoria Film Festival
- The TC10k
“The many fairs and festivals that take place across the South Island provide a real sense of connection for the people of our community. They have important benefits for people’s mental health. They bring people and businesses together and also help strengthen our local economy,” said Murray Rankin, MLA for Oak Bay-Gordon Head. “This funding will help us gather safely once again to do the things we love.”
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:
B.C. fairs, festivals and events benefit from recovery funding
To see the list of recipients for the Fairs, Festivals, and Events Recovery Fund, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/BCFFE_Funded_Events.pdf