Ontario is investing $20,000 to support the annual Curve Lake First Nation Pow Wow, set for September 20th and 21st.
The funding comes through the province’s 2025 Experience Ontario program, part of a nearly $20-million investment to boost festivals and events across Ontario. The program aims to help event organizers expand programming and attract more visitors, creating local jobs and supporting main street businesses.
Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming, said festivals “showcase the best of Ontario” and play a key role in building community and economic growth.
Dave Smith, MPP for Peterborough–Kawartha, called the Pow Wow a “significant gathering” that honours tradition, promotes healing and celebrates Indigenous culture.
Chief Keith Knott of Curve Lake First Nation said the event is a celebration of Anishinaabe identity and community. “This funding helps ensure that the people who carry these traditions are respected and compensated,” he said.
More than 350 events across Ontario will receive support through the Experience Ontario 2025 program.