Ontario Investing in the Blue Mountain Film + Media Festival

May 28, 2026

Funding will help attract visitors and strengthen the local economy

NEWS: May 28, 2026 –  For Immediate Release

Town of the Blue Mountains, ON: Brian Saunderson, MPP for Simcoe-Grey is pleased to highlight that Ontario is investing up to $55,000 through the 2026 Experience Ontario program to support the Blue Mountain Film + Media Festival. 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.”

In total, Experience Ontario 2026 is supporting nearly 400 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.

“Congratulations to Patti Kendall and the team at the Blue Mountain Village Association for their continued leadership in delivering the Blue Mountain Film + Media Festival,” said MPP Saunderson. “Festivals like this strengthen local tourism, support businesses, and create opportunities to showcase the creativity, talent, and unique character of our region. This investment will help continue building experiences that bring people together and contribute to the economic vitality of Simcoe-Grey.”

“Thank you to our Ontario government for your vital support of the Blue Mountain Film + Media Festival, tourism, and arts and culture programming,” said Patti Kendall, President of the Blue Mountain Village Association. “Your commitment enriches our community and fosters creativity and connection.”

QUICK FACTS

• The Blue Mountain Film + Media Festival runs May 28-31, 2026
• 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.