“We Stand” Campaign
In late May, Destination Ontario (the province’s Destination Marketing Organization) launched its “We Stand” Campaign, encouraging Ontarians to rediscover the province and support local communities through travel. Showcasing everything from scenic escapes to vibrant towns and cities, the campaign highlights Ontario’s incredible range of experiences, including its rich cultural offerings.
Cultural tourism is front and centre, with the campaign spotlighting local festivals, live performances, museums, art galleries, and Indigenous tourism experiences.
Whether it’s exploring world-class exhibits, attending a community celebration, or discovering a hidden-gem theatre, Ontarians are being invited to engage with the stories, creativity, and traditions that shape the province.
Backed by nearly $200 million in provincial investment, the initiative supports over 92,000 tourism businesses and more than 350 festivals and events across Ontario.
With nearly 9 in 10 Ontarians planning an overnight trip within the province this year, “We Stand” is more than a tourism campaign, it’s a call to support the people, places, and cultural moments that make Ontario unique. Learn more and get inspired at DestinationOntario.com.
OCAF-Supported Events in Ontario
The Mariposa Folk Festival returns July 4–6 to Tudhope Park in Orillia, celebrating folk-roots music, arts, and culture. With over 100 performances across 11 stages, the Festival features an eclectic mix of music, spoken word, and dance. Attendees can explore hands-on workshops, a vibrant artisan market, and the popular Community Village. Family-friendly programming includes interactive crafts, storytelling, and the beloved “Folkplay” area.
The Go North Music Festival takes place July 24–26, on St. Joseph Island at the scenic Centennial Grounds. This family-friendly event features a diverse lineup of Canadian talent, including headliners Big Sugar. The weekend includes a Thursday night kickoff on the Timber Stage, a Friday evening boat parade and western dance, and a full day of music on Saturday. You can enjoy local food vendors, craft beer, artisan markets, camping, and fun family activities.
River & Sky Music/Camping Festival returns July 23–27, at Fisher’s Paradise on the Sturgeon River in West Nipissing, Ontario. This intimate, four-day Festival blends music, nature, and community with performances across multiple scenic stages, including riverside and forest settings. Guests can enjoy art installations, workshops, sauna sessions, and river swims, all in a relaxed, camping-friendly environment. Rooted in sustainability and respect for Indigenous land, River & Sky offers a unique, down-to-earth festival experience for all ages.
Northern Lights Festival Boréal returns to Sudbury’s Bell Park from July 4–6, celebrating over 50 years as one of Canada’s longest-running music Festivals. This vibrant, bilingual event features more than 40 performances across multiple stages, showcasing a mix of folk, rock, roots, jazz, hip-hop, blues, Indigenous, and Francophone artists. You can enjoy interactive workshops, artisan vendors, food trucks, and a family-friendly atmosphere—all by the shores of Ramsey Lake. With headline acts like Lights, Shad, Melbourne Ska Orchestra, and Destroyer, it promises an unforgettable weekend of music and culture.