The Wiarton BIA and the Town of South Bruce Peninsula receive My Main Street support to draw visitors and increase vibrancy in downtown Wiarton.
October 30, 2024 – South Bruce Peninsula, ON – The Wiarton BIA in partnership with the Town of South Bruce Peninsula is pleased to announce that our Wiarton Winter Wonderland project was selected for the My Main Street Community Activator initiative.
The Wiarton Winter Wonderland project will transform Berford Street Parkette into a festive holiday space with a pre-lit Christmas tree and shimmering lights, enhancing the downtown’s holiday spirit. Coinciding with the Santa Claus Parade, this event draws residents and visitors into Wiarton’s core, kicking off the Christmas shopping season and boosting the local economy during the off-season. By investing in durable decorations that can withstand Bruce Peninsula's weather, this support contributes to the event’s sustainability, benefiting local businesses and reinforcing Wiarton's position as a vibrant, year-round destination.
Follow our social media pages @southbrucepen on Instagram and Facebook for updates and event details—don’t miss out on the magic!
My Main Street is built on the principle of supporting community economic development and creating vibrant and diverse neighbourhoods which will enhance the overall quality of life for residents while also promoting sustainable and inclusive community development. My Main Street is delivered by the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI), and supported by a Government of Canada investment through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). Learn more about the My Main Street program at mymainstreet.ca.
Quotes
“This Wiarton Winter Wonderland project will draw people into downtown Wiarton, creating a vibrant atmosphere as we kick off the holiday shopping season. The Christmas tree will be a centerpiece, sparking joy and giving everyone a reason to visit, experience the festive magic, and support local businesses."
- Danielle Edwards, Manager of Economic Development and Corporate Communications, South Bruce Peninsula
“We would like to thank the My Main Street Program, the Canadian Urban Institute, and the Federal Economic Development Agency of Southern Ontario for their generous support. This has allowed us to build on the vision of our former Chair, creating a true holiday winter destination in downtown Wiarton. The Wiarton Winter Wonderland Project will create an inviting and inclusive space where residents and visitors will want to shop, dine, and explore, making downtown Wiarton a must-visit spot for an unforgettable holiday experience.”
- David Nusko, Chair of the Wiarton BIA
“A community's resilience is anchored in its main street, and supporting them fosters economic prosperity and growth. Projects like Wiarton’s Winter Wonderland supported through My Main Street’s Community Activator initiative uses intentional and creative placemaking to revitalize their neighborhoods and public spaces. Our program’s investment provides an opportunity for local change makers to build healthy, robust main street communities, and drive social cohesion and economic recovery where it’s needed most.”
- Mary W. Rowe, CEO and President, Canadian Urban Institute
“The Canadian Urban Institute, with support from the Government of Canada, is investing in community projects that enhance the local experience, such as Wiarton’s Winter Wonderland. These projects attract visitors to our main streets, support local businesses, and revitalize our communities – helping shops, restaurants and local economies thrive. Together, we’re building stronger, more vibrant communities.”
- The Honourable Filomena Tassi, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
Associated Links
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Media Contacts
Danielle Edwards
Manager of Economic Development and Corporate Communications
Town of South Bruce Peninsula
danielle.edwards@southbrucepeninsula.com
Samantha Staresincic
Communications Manager
My Main Street
Edward Hutchinson
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
edward.hutchinson@feddevontario.gc.ca
Background:
About My Main Street: The My Main Street program has returned with an additional Government of Canada investment, building on an initial investment in 2021, through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) to spur local economic recovery. To date, the initial investment has supported nearly 4,500 businesses and organizations, nearly 7,500 jobs and leveraged nearly $19 million in additional investment. The funding aims to revitalize neighbourhood main streets with a healthy retail mix while generating inclusive economic opportunities. The program now features two streams – Business Sustainability and the Community Activator. My Main Street is delivered by the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI).
About Canadian Urban Institute (CUI): The Canadian Urban Institute is a leading organization dedicated to advancing urban solutions. CUI collaborates with city builders, researchers, and community leaders to create thriving, equitable, and sustainable urban spaces across Canada.
About FedDev Ontario: For 15 years, the Government of Canada, through FedDev Ontario, has worked to advance and diversify the southern Ontario economy through funding opportunities and business services that support innovation, growth and job creation in Canada’s most populous region. The Agency has delivered impressive results, which can be seen in southern Ontario businesses that are creating innovative technologies, improving productivity, growing revenues, creating jobs, and in the economic advancement of communities across the region. Learn more about the impacts the Agency is having in southern Ontario by exploring our investment profiles,