Toronto Deputy Mayor Jennifer McKelvie is announcing new $2 million in funding for cultural festivals this summer. 

“On behalf of the City of Toronto and City Council, I am thrilled that through the 2023 budget we are funding $2 million for cultural festivals that contribute immensely to the economic and social life and vibrancy of Toronto," said McKelvie.

"The Cultural Festivals Funding Program supports the development of the festival sector, while promoting access, equity, inclusion, service innovation, excellence and resilience. I look forward to joining tens of thousands of Torontonians and visitors to our city at many of the cultural events and festivals that will be taking place across the city starting as soon as this spring.”

The funding will go towards at least 44 approved cultural festivals. 

McKelvie was joined by Coun. Shelley Carroll of Don Valley North, at the announcement. Caroll is currently the chair of the Economic and Community Development Committee. Representatives of the Caribbean Carnival, Celebrate Toronto and Toronto Dragon Festival were present as well. 

The funding will be available through the city’s cultural festival funding program, which has supported events like Salsa on St.Clair, Jerkfest and Pride. 

Funding starts at $25,000 for festivals and increase for the larger annual events. 

One of the bigger festivals confirmed to make a return in 2023 is the Taste of the Danforth, celebrating the city’s Greek culture. Due to alleged logistical problems regarding bike lanes and street permits, the festival has been cancelled since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

More details to come. 

Listen to CJRU's coverage of the new cultural festivals funding: