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McGuinty Government Supports Expansion of Wine & Culinary Tourism
TORONTO, Sept. 7 /CNW/ -
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The Shores of Erie International Wine Festival received almost $90,000 in provincial support to build the region's fledgling wine and culinary tourism industry and promote the Festival to domestic and US markets.
Most of the new funding was used to almost double the Festival grounds, add a second performance stage, and offer an enhanced wine and culinary program. Approximately $15,000 was invested in promoting the 2008 Festival in the Windsor, London and Detroit markets. The 2008 Shores of Erie International Wine Festival runs from September 4 to September 7.
Festivals and events across Ontario generate millions of dollars for the provincial economy. The government has provided $10 million through the Celebrate Ontario program to support the development and marketing of festivals and events, more than double the funding provided in 2007.
QUOTES
"The Shores of Erie International Wine Festival is a great opportunity to celebrate the amazing wine and culinary experience we have to offer visitors," said Minister Fonseca. "Supporting such events increases tourism and gives a significant boost to the local economy."
"We're delighted to be part of the Celebrate Ontario initiative this year," said Festival administrator Kelly O'Rourke. "Our expanded program this year was welcomed by the thousands of people who attended the Festival's many culinary and musical events. Just as important, the Shores of Erie wineries took the opportunity to burnish their already excellent reputations for fine wines."
"The McGuinty government recognizes the importance of tourism to Essex County and communities across Ontario," said Bruce Crozier, MPP for Essex. "This event brings thousands of visitors to our region with attendance at this premier Festival growing year after year."
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QUICK FACTS
- The 2008 Shores of Erie International Wine Festival features numerous
musical and culinary events, including tours of local wineries and
presentations by award-winning vintners of the region.
- In 2007, the Shores of Erie International Wine Festival attracted an
estimated 13,000 people to the region. Festival organizers expect up
to 3,000 more people to attend the 2008 Festival.
- Earlier this year, the Ministry of Tourism announced that
90 festivals and events across Ontario were approved for Celebrate
Ontario funding of over $10 million.
LEARN MORE
Find out more about the Shores of Erie International Wine Festival
(http://www.soewinefestival.com/).
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For further information: Alicia Farrow, Minister's Office, (416) 325-4543; Jill Skorochod, Communications Branch, (416) 325-8391
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