London is getting a small piece of a $15.3-million pie for festivals and events held across the province.
Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport Michael Coteau announced the Celebrate Ontario funding Monday in support of 200 events being held this year.
In London, four events will be receiving a combined $421,744. Those events include the Afrikalia: African Heart Beats ($76,400), Rock the Park outdoor music festival ($19,600), The Beatles Festival ($25,700), and the Country Music Week & Canadian Country Music Awards ($300,000).
A fifth event, Professional Bull Riding Ontario Series will split $153,500 between London, Ottawa, and Toronto.
The Great Lakes International Airshow in Central Elgin will also be receiving $43,425.
"Our investment will help festivals and events offer new and expanded experiences that will support local economic growth, create jobs, and draw tourists to communities across the province," says Coteau.
According to the province, every $1 of Celebrate Ontario funding triggers about $18 of visitor expenditures.