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Ontario Supporting Cultural Tourism in Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke

May 2, 2026

$30,000 investment will create jobs and boost local economy

PEMBROKE – The Ontario government is protecting and promoting the growth and sustainability of cultural tourism in Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke. Billy Denault, MPP for Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke, announced today that the Township of Madawaska Valley and the Pembroke Public Library, will receive $30,000 in funding through the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund (OCAF).

“Arts, culture, and community events play an important role in attracting visitors, supporting local businesses, and strengthening our local economy,” said MPP Billy Denault. “Our government is proud to invest in organizations across Renfrew–Nipissing–Pembroke through the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund, helping create jobs, promote tourism, and showcase the unique experiences our communities have to offer.”

Township of Madawaska Valley will receive $10,000 in funding to develop, promote and present the Barry’s Bay BIA Bay Days, a three-day community-wide street festival taking place May 14 to 16, 2026, in Barry’s Bay. In partnership with the Barry’s Bay BIA, the event will feature an opening reception, family film night, a downtown street festival, and live entertainment designed to attract residents, seasonal visitors, and regional tourists.

On behalf of Madawaska Valley Council and our residents, I want to thank the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund for recognizing the hard work and volunteerism in the Barry’s Bay BIA and investing in Madawaska Valley. The annual Bay Day street festival is the highlight of the May long weekend in our community, and this funding will allow this event to continue to grow and thrive. Congratulations to the Barry’s Bay BIA and thank you OCAF.
-David Shulist, Mayor of Township of Madawaska Valley

Pembroke Public Library will receive $20,000 in funding to develop, promote and present the 2026 Pembroke Multicultural Festival, a two-day cultural celebration taking place July 17 and 18, 2026, at Pembroke Waterfront Park and the Riverwalk Amphitheatre. The festival will feature live cultural performances, an international food and artisan marketplace, cultural information booths, family-friendly activities, and opening ceremonies celebrating the diversity and heritage of communities across the Ottawa Valley.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support received from the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund. Without this funding, we would not be in a position to invest in the innovative promotional strategies we are now able to pursue. Multicultural festival not only celebrates diversity and inclusion across the county, but also attracts visitors from near and far, contributing to the economic growth and tourism development of the Ottawa Valley. Its impact extends well beyond the festival grounds, supporting local businesses, strengthening community connections, and showcasing our region as a welcoming and dynamic destination.”
-Karthi Rajamani, CEO Pembroke Public Library

This is part of the government’s overall investment of $6 million into OCAF projects across the province over three years.

“Arts and culture organizations across Ontario enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike by providing one-of-a-kind events that proudly showcase the best that our province has to offer,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “With this funding, our government is protecting and strengthening our position as a leading cultural producer, helping to bring these wonderful projects to life while boosting local business, creating jobs and enabling audiences of all ages to enjoy memorable, made-in-Ontario experiences.”

OCAF funds are provided as partially repayable loans, enabling the government to support a broader range of new attractions and special events. For every $1 that the Ontario government invests, $1.67 is in turn invested into the cultural tourism sector.

QUICK FACTS

  • Since 1999, OCAF has supported more than 1000 events, festivals and exhibitions across Ontario, which have attracted over 91 million attendees.
  • OCAF provides support to cultural tourism events that range in size from large art and music festivals to smaller events that celebrate local Ontario culture and heritage.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

  • OCAF continues to accept applications for new events and offers applicants flexibility regarding project timing and scope. Please visit the OCAF website for more information on the organization and to view a full list of recipients.