From snow-bombing to surf and strongmen, visitors and residents of B.C. will enjoy festivals in 2019, thanks in part to funding from the Government of British Columbia’s Tourism Events Program.

Cranbrook’s Strongman Classic, a classic strength competition for men and women in its 15th year, a cornerstone of Sam Steele Days events, is the lone East Kootenay recipient in this funding announcement, receiving $14,000.

Tourism Events Program funding supports events that raise awareness nationally and internationally of B.C.’s tourism experiences and help inspire people from around the world to visit the province. The events also generate tourism and economic activities in communities throughout British Columbia.

“The wide variety of B.C. festivals and events mean there is something for everyone,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture. “By supporting these events, we’re helping organizers draw visitors, increasing local tourism and showcasing the diversity of our beautiful province to visitors and British Columbians alike.”

In 2018, 45 events and festivals in B.C. communities were supported by the $2.3 million program.

Applications for Tourism Events Program funding are accepted twice yearly. The next application window will open March 1, for events taking place between Nov. 1, 2019, and Oct. 31, 2020.

The Government of British Columbia provided Tourism Events Program funding for events that took place in 2018.

Tourism is an important economic driver for B.C., generating more than $17 billion in revenue in 2016. Tourism is the province’s third biggest employer, with more than 133,000 people working in this industry, a Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture media release noted.

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