Three London events have been named among the top 100 festivals in the province.
Festivals and Events Ontario (FEO) unveiled the 2017 Top 100 Festivals and Events in Ontario during its annual conference in Sault Ste. Marie on Friday.
The London Wine and Food Show, the Western Fair, and TD Sunfest were the only London events to be recognized.
The Western Fair landed the Level of Distinction Award, while Sunfest marked its 12th consecutive year on the list.
“Festivals and events create jobs and bring Ontario communities together to celebrate our heritage and diversity,” said Eleanor McMahon, minister of tourism, culture and sport. “I am pleased to join with Festival and Events Ontario in congratulating this year’s top 100 recipients. There are so many celebrations taking place across the province this year and our 150th anniversary is the perfect opportunity to get out and discover them.”
The Top 100 program is meant as a way to honor excellence in Ontario’s festivals and events industry. Events were submitted by FEO members last fall and were judged by an independent panel.
Sunfest Executive & Artistic Director Alfredo Caxaj attributes the honour to the strong contingent of exhibitors, patrons, performers, volunteers, and sponsors who help make Sunfest a major cultural and economic driver for the city.
The annual festival in Victoria Park returns July 6 to July 9 with over 35 international and national world music & jazz headliners and 225 food, craft, and visual art exhibitors.
The Wine and Food Show, which allows people to sample the latest creations from wine and beer makers and area chefs, hosted a sold out crowd at the Metroland Media Agriplex in January.