Funding through the 2026 Experience Ontario program will help attract visitors and strengthen local economy
MISSISSAUGA – Ontario is investing $122,503 through the 2026 Experience Ontario program to support three festivals and events in Mississauga East-Cooksville. This is part of a more than $20 million government investment to help municipalities and event organizers deliver high-quality programming and experiences for people of all ages.
“From Ontario’s charming small towns to its dazzling urban centres, festivals and events bring people together, create lasting memories and showcase the best of our communities,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “As we work to protect Ontario, these homegrown experiences play a vital role in celebrating our shared identity, bolstering main street businesses and ensuring our province remains a place people are inspired to explore, and proud to call home.”
Silvia Gualtieri, MPP for Mississauga East-Cooksville, announced today that the following local events are receiving funding support:
- $55,000.00 for Puppet Festival Mississauga 2027
- $47503 for Festival of Arabic Music and Arts (FAMA) 2026
- $20000 for Taste of Cooksville
In total, Experience Ontario 2026 is supporting nearly festivals and events of all sizes across the province, strengthening tourism and supporting local economies while celebrating the people, places and traditions that make Ontario unique.
“Community is built in the moments we share at festivals, on our main streets, and through the traditions that bring us together,” said MPP Gualtieri. “I am grateful to the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming and the Experience Ontario program for supporting events like the Festival of Arabic Music and Arts, Puppet Festival Mississauga, and Taste of Cooksville. These investments strengthen local businesses, celebrate our diversity, and bring our community closer together.”
QUICK FACTS
- Since 2018, the Experience Ontario program (formerly known as Reconnect Ontario and Celebrate Ontario) has supported more than 2,700 Ontario festivals and events.
- The government also supports festivals and events through the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund, which provides eligible organizations with funding for marketing and promotional costs.
- Tourism plays a critical role in the Ontario economy: in 2024, visitors to Ontario spent $33 billion and supported more than 300,000 jobs.