Goderich Celtic Roots Festival and College receives provincial support

Cheryl Prashker (left) with MPP Lisa Thompson (centre) and John Lodge, receiving the cheque for $55,000.

On July 16 the Goderich Celtic Roots Festival and College received $55,000 in support from the Ontario government’s Experience Ontario program.

This funding helps the festival continue to bring world-class music, dance and culture to Huron County.

Having a strong budget helps support the artists, grow the community and create unforgettable memories each August.

On July 16 MPP Lisa Thompson presented the cheque in Lion’s Harbour Park with Cheryl Prashker, Artistic Director and John Lodge, Treasurer.

The Celtic Festival applied for the Experience Ontario grant at the beginning of the year, as the festival had received this grant two years prior.

According to Cheryl Prashker, events funded through Experience Ontario are expected to increase visitor spending and create job opportunities in the tourism, culture and entertainment sectors.

“It is an honour. It is so exciting to know the government is supporting the arts in this way,” admitted Prashker.

“It is also a bit overwhelming to know we can breathe a little in case we have a weekend of inclement weather, which of course can impact an outdoor festival tremendously.”

According to Prashker, the funding will be used to help the festival with its marketing team and for publicity in general.

It will allow the festival to bring in the best musicians from Canada and around the world to participate on stage here in Goderich.

Prashker adds that supporting arts is crucial these days, as festivals like the Goderich Celtic Roots Festival helps bring tourism to Goderich.

“This in turn, supports local businesses,” Prashker explained.

“More than that, it allows local families to take part in cultural events they may not have access to otherwise. These is nothing better than seeing the smiling faces of the attendees.”