CALEDON – On Friday, MPP Sylvia Jones joined the team at Downey’s Farm Market Ltd. to announce that the Ontario government is investing $55,000 through the 2026 Experience Ontario program to support the upcoming Downey’s Pumpkinfest.
This funding is part of a more than $20 million government investment to help municipalities and event organizers deliver high-quality programming and experiences for people of all ages.
“Our government is proud to invest in the events and festivals in Dufferin-Caledon that boost tourism, support our local economy, and help our residents explore and enjoy everything our community has to offer,” said Sylvia Jones, MPP for Dufferin-Caledon. “Downey’s Pumpkinfest is a longstanding tradition in Caledon. What began as a way to celebrate the autumn harvest has become a true family event for all during its six-week festival.”
Experience Ontario 2026 is supporting festivals and events of all sizes across the province, strengthening tourism while celebrating the people, places and traditions that make Ontario unique.
With U.S. tariffs causing economic uncertainty, supporting local businesses is more important than ever. Events and festivals offer additional opportunities to shop locally and help communities thrive.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Ontario government for its support through the Experience Ontario program. This funding has allowed us to expand the live entertainment and performers at Pumpkinfest, adding even more to the experience families enjoy when they visit Downey’s Farm,” said Darlene Downey, Owner and Operator of Downey’s Farm Market. “Pumpkinfest brings thousands of visitors to our community each fall, and investments like this help us continue to grow the event, support local performers and create memorable experiences that keep families coming back year after year.”
As our government works to protect Ontario, these experiences help support local businesses, connect our communities, and keep our province the place Ontario residents love to call home.
MEDIA CONTACT
The Office of MPP Sylvia Jones
180 Broadway, 3rd Floor, Suite A, Orangeville, ON L9W 1K3
Riley Murphy – Constituency Assistant
1-800-265-1603