The Mariposa Folk Festival is investing even more money into this year's event than it did last year, thanks in part to a city grant.
Mayor Steve Clarke and Coun. Ralph Cipolla handed out $40,000 in grants to local groups Thursday, $30,000 of which went to the Mariposa Folk Foundation. It's the final contribution of a three-year funding commitment the city made to Mariposa.
"It's indicative of the closer relationship and the stronger relationship we have with the city," said Chris Hazel, who accepted the cheque on behalf of the foundation.
Eighteen years ago, when the festival returned to Orillia after a stint in Toronto, "no one knew if it was going to work here," Hazel said.
It has thrived, and last year's event was a perfect example. The foundation increased its artistic budget for the 2017 offering by more than $100,000. As a result, attendance increased by more than 40 per cent. This year, the artistic budget has again been increased.
The city also granted funding to the Orillia Scottish Festival ($2,500), Orillia Winter Carnival ($2,500), Roots North Music Festival ($2,000), Starry Night Studio and Gallery Tour ($1,500) and Orillia Jazz Festival ($1,000).
For a young and growing event like Roots North, the money will go a long way.
"It's a huge deal for us," said Sarah Duffy, who was on hand to receive the cheque.
It will likely be used to pay the deposits for artists.
For both Starry Night and the Orillia Scottish Festival, the money will help get the word out about the events.
"We're going to invest some more into advertising," said Stephanie Stanton, of Starry Night, adding there might also be more live entertainment this year thanks to the grant.
Marketing and advertising is often the greatest expense for the Orillia Scottish Festival, said Chuck Penny, who thanked the city for its assistance.
"It shows that the city is supporting us, and that's really important," he said. "It's a real boost for us."
