February: DesignTO, Ballet Jörgen, Aurora Winter Blues Festival and more!

We want to connect with cultural and heritage organizations in the Parry Sound–Muskoka region to share funding opportunities that support event marketing, audience growth, and local economic impact.

Join us to meet OCAF representatives, learn how the program works, and find out how to apply.

  • February 26 | 12:00–1:00 pm
  • Bracebridge Library – Castle Peak Retirement Residence Multipurpose Room
  • 34 Salmon Ave, Bracebridge, ON

Light refreshments provided.

Over the coming months, OCAF will be sharing a series of case studies that demonstrate the fund’s economic, cultural, and community impact across Ontario. One recent example is the 2024 Windsor International Film Festival, which attracted 18,000 attendees, including 28% out-of-town visitors, strengthening Windsor’s profile as a cross-border cultural tourism destination.

The $80,000 OCAF investment supported a significantly expanded marketing plan. WIFF generated $1.08M in direct GDP,  38 cultural jobs, and several new partnerships with local hospitality businesses. OCAF funding also supported an event internship that led directly to a full-time role!

More case studies highlighting the economic, cultural, and community impact of OCAF’s mission are coming soon!

A new production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream comes to Markham this winter, presented by Ballet Jörgen. This original ballet reimagines Shakespeare’s classic through a Canadian lens, blending Mendelssohn’s iconic score with choreography inspired by the country’s northern landscapes. The performance is accompanied by community engagement and educational programming, offering audiences a fresh, accessible way to experience a timeless story through dance.

The DesignTO Festival returns in 2026 with a city-wide program celebrating contemporary design, architecture, and creative thinking. Taking place across Toronto, the Festival features exhibitions, installations, talks, and tours that highlight diverse voices and innovative practices shaping the future of design. Events unfold in galleries, public spaces, and neighbourhood venues, inviting audiences to explore how design connects culture, community, and everyday life.

The Aurora Winter Blues Festival returns for 2026 with a standout lineup of Canadian blues and roots talent. Audiences will see performances by Juno-winning guitarist Jack de Keyzer, award-winning singer-songwriter Suzie Vinnick with special guests Kevin Breit & Tony D plus Jay Blues, celebrated blues artist Glenn Marais’ Jook, genre-blending powerhouse Dominique Fils-Aimé, soul legend Harrison Kennedy with Dave Mowat, and the electrifying Little Magic Sam Band.

Festival programming also includes free drop-in workshops exploring blues instruments, technique, and history.

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