Feds announce funding for Bluesfest and other tourist attractions

By Anil Jhalli

One of the largest musical festivals in the world is receiving funding support from the federal government. 

The federal government announced on June 16 it is providing $9.8 million for the Ottawa Bluesfest music festival, which is making its return in 2022 after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The funding support is through the federal government's Major Festivals and Events Support Initiative to help the festival return to its pre-pandemic scale, while supporting the expansion of the main stage area and the purchase of a new portable stage. 

“After a difficult two years of Ottawa Bluesfest being cancelled due to the pandemic, this contribution is going to ensure the viability and growth of the festival in 2022 and beyond,” said Mark Monahan, the executive director of Ottawa Bluesfest. “With this support, we look forward to seeing Ottawa Bluesfest come back bigger and better than ever.”

Since 1994, the annual Ottawa Bluesfest has featured some of the highest profile musical talent in the world. The festival is a landmark event in Ottawa, and according to Billboard Magazine, is one of the top 10 music festivals in the world. 

This year, the event runs from July 7 until July 17 at Lebreton Flats, and features the talents of Alanis Morisette, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Jack Johnson, Ja Rule, Luke Bryan, Rage Against the Machine, Sarah McLachlan and many more. 

“Ottawa Bluesfest is a globally-renowned event that is near and dear to the city of Ottawa and has been sorely missed during the past two years, as have the tourist attractions and events across our city,” said Member of Parliament for Ottawa Centre Yasir Naqvi.  “Revitalizing and restoring vibrancy to our downtown core following the pandemic, is a priority for our federal government. With the support announced today for Ottawa Bluesfest and local tourism operators, these companies will work to enhance their offerings and bounce back. Ottawa is open for tourists!”

An additional investment of more than $250,000 through the Tourism Relief Fund will support three tourism businesses in the region: Haunted Walks Inc., Alicja Confections Inc., and Escape Tours and Rentals, as they recover from the pandemic and attract visitors through new products and services.

 

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