MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT HELPS THE INTERNATIONAL PLOWING MATCH AND COUNTRY FESTIVAL ATTRACT LARGER AUDIENCES

 

 

CROSBY — The McGuinty government is investing in the expansion and marketing of the 94th annual International Plowing Match and Country Festival, Tourism Minister Jim Bradley announced today.

“The Ontario government is pleased to help the International Plowing Match and Country Festival expand and attract more visitors,” said Bradley. “Supporting this great festival provides an economic boost to Leeds-Grenville, and a memorable experience for our visitors.”

The province is investing a total of $116,000: a $65,997 Celebrate Ontario grant to create new entertainment experiences and attract new visitors and an additional $50,000 to support the cost of television and newspaper advertising in Ontario and New York state.

“This event gives us an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of our agricultural and rural communities, and to be among the people who truly drive those communities,” said Leona Dombrowsky, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “This investment supports an important tradition that showcases how vital our farming and rural communities are to this province.”   

The United Counties of Leeds-Grenville is hosting the event in Crosby, 40 kilometres north of Gananoque, from September 18 to 22. Held annually in different counties across Ontario, the Plowing Match is expected to generate $20 million in economic benefit to the region, with up to 80,000 people expected to attend the country-life festival.

This year’s theme is “Sowing Seeds – Growing Dreams”.  The event features seven entertainment stages in total, 600 exhibitors, as well as antique and historical displays in a 100-acre Tent City. RV parking with 1,900 campsites is available adjacent to the festival.

“We’re thrilled the Ministry of Tourism is supporting the Plowing Match and we expect a huge increase in visitors coming to Leeds-Grenville to enjoy the festival,” said Jan Bonhomme, event coordinator.  “Our goal is to bring the city to the country and showcase what country living is all about!”

The International Plowing Match and Country Festival is among dozens of events and festivals supported by the Ontario government.  Marketing support for these events encourages increased tourism and strengthens Ontario's tourism industry by helping organizations promote their events to the people of Ontario and beyond.  Since October 2003, the McGuinty government has invested more than $15 million to market Ontario’s festivals and events.

 

– 30 –

Contacts:

David Oved, Minister’s Office 416-314-1400

Gary Wheeler, Communications Branch 416-325-8391