Outaouais Festivals secure provincial funding to spark local tourism

Tashi Farmilo

Nearly $970,000 in funding was announced on 5 July, to support summer and autumn festivals and events across the Outaouais, aiming to draw visitors, boost cultural life, and stimulate the local economy. The funding comes under Quebec’s Aide financière aux festivals et aux événements touristiques programme.

Among the largest beneficiaries is the Festival de montgolfières de Gatineau, Canada’s premier hot air balloon festival, receiving $450,000. The festival typically attracts over 225,000 attendees and delivers more than 60 hours of performances, contributing around $15 million to the regional economy. “Supporting these festivals is a source of pride for Quebec, as they promote the province as a destination of choice while bringing concrete economic benefits to our communities,” said Caroline Proulx, Minister of Tourism.

Les Grands Feux du Casino du Lac-Leamy will receive $175,000 for its late July to mid-August event, known for its pyromusical shows and new ELECTRO opening night, while the Festival western Saint-André-Avellin rodéo professionnel will receive $109,000 to continue its support of rodeo and country culture.

Mathieu Lacombe, Minister of Culture and Communications, noted that support for these festivals aligns with the rising interest in Quebec as a travel destination. “More and more tourists are choosing Quebec as their top destination. Supporting these festivals ensures visitors have unforgettable experiences while helping our local economy,” he said.

The funding also includes $46,000 for Aéro Gatineau-Ottawa, which showcases vintage aircraft and aerial displays, and supports community events such as the Festival d'humour de Gatineau, Festival de la fibre Twist, Petite Nation en fête, Festival Ripon trad, and Festival Riverside. These gatherings contribute to the region’s year-round cultural vitality, a point highlighted by Robert Bussière, MNA for Gatineau: “These events create lasting memories and encourage people to discover local flavours and the warm welcome of our residents.”

For communities across the region, the festivals provide moments for families and friends to gather. “These festivals and events are part of what makes summer and autumn in the Outaouais vibrant,” said Mathieu Lévesque, MNA for Chapleau. “I commend the organisers for the quality and diversity of programming they deliver every year.”

Suzanne Tremblay, MNA for Hull, emphasised the role these events play in promoting local culture while strengthening the economy. “The tourism sector is vital for our region, and these festivals play a key role in that. We are proud to support the organisers and volunteers who bring these events to life.”