New recovery funding will help local fairs, festivals and events resume in the Langley area

LANGLEY – New Democrat MLAs Megan Dykeman and Andrew Mercier say new support from the BC New Democrat government will help local fairs, festivals and community events resume in Langley.

“The pandemic continues to affect people’s mental health and many of us are looking forward to safely gathering at our local fairs or festivals soon. Our government knows how important it is to support events like these through non-repayable grants so that organizers, artists, and patrons alike can continue to enjoy!” said Andrew Mercier, MLA for Langley

Over 25 fairs, festivals, and events in the Langley area will benefit from this recovery funding.

Some examples include:

  • 2022 Odlum Brown Fort Langley Jazz & Arts Festival
  • The West Coast Classic
  • The Harvest Celebration
  • The Canadian Track and Field Championships

“The Odlum Brown Fort Langley Jazz Fest is such an important event in the community, and it so impressive how the organizers have pivoted in the last few years. I’m looking forward to seeing what all the grant recipients have in store for 2022!” said Megan Dykeman, MLA for Langley East

These fairs, festivals, and events are among the 680 events across the province supported by the BC New Democrat government’s investment. The government is providing nearly $30 million in one-time grants to eligible event organizers to support their efforts to resume safely. Grant amounts for each event are up to 20% of the total event budget, up to a maximum of $250,000.

Successful recipients demonstrated the economic and social benefits of their event, as well as strong local or regional support. Examples of eligible expenses include operational costs, health and safety measures, venue rental, marketing, wages and promotion.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, the New Democrat government has worked closely with B.C.’s tourism sector and provided $225 million in support to ensure businesses and non-profits can continue to draw visitors and benefit local communities for years to come.

Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2021TACS0078-002377

To see the list of recipients for the Fairs, Festivals, and Events Recovery Fund, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/BCFFE_Funded_Events.pdf

Media contact: Devon Leathwood, 778-887-3834