Help the Economy – Go to a Concert

By / Food / May 12th, 2010 / 1

If you ever wondered how indulging in your favourite cultural activities could possibly help the economy, here’s your answer. According a study released by the Canadian Festivals Coalition, 15 of the largest festivals and events in Canada last year employed over 15000 people, attracted over 12 million people and contributed $650 million to local economies. Those numbers don’t even include small, local events. Just think what good you’re doing every time you visit your favourite art gallery, restaurant or winery.

Here’s the list of events included in the study.

Canadian National Exhibition
Carnaval de Québec
Charlottetown Festival
Festival d’été de Québec
Les FrancoFolies de Montréal
Luminato
Montreal International Jazz Festival
Montreal Just For Laughs Festival
Cisco Ottawa Bluesfest
Pacific National Exhibition
Royal Agricultural Winter Fair
Shaw Festival
Stratford Shakespeare Festival
Toronto International Film Festival
Vancouver International Jazz Festival

The argument put forward in the study is that one of the major reasons these events did so well is the close to $260 million in tax revenue that all three levels of government contributed. But, as helpful as that cash input must have been, I don’t think the events would have generated the interest and excitement were it not for the creativity of the individuals involved. It’s like wineries or restaurants. They can advertise all they want; but, ultimately if the product isn’t appealing, no one will be interested in buying the product.

Culture always suffers during hard economic times. As important as jobs are, cultural events feed the soul and provide a great way for us to get to know ourselves and our neighbours. So, get out and enjoy some culture!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rosemary Mantini has always loved words. When she isn't working as the Associate Editor at Tidings Magazine, she's helping others achieve their writing dreams, and sometimes she even relaxes with a good book and a glass of wine.

Comments are closed.

North America’s Longest Running Food & Wine Magazine

Get Quench-ed!!!

Champion storytellers & proudly independent for over 50 years. Free Weekly newsletter & full digital access