Events

Collaborating on Culture clearly identifies the connection between culture and events. People identified the strong priority and value that events hold in the Municipality of Port Hope.

Events and the importance of them is defined by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) as;

"Social practices, rituals and festive events are habitual activities that structure the lives of communities and groups and that are shared by and relevant to many of their members. They are significant because they reaffirm the identity of those who practice them as a group or a society and, whether performed in public or private, are closely linked to important events. Social, ritual and festive practices may help to mark the passing of the seasons, events in the agricultural calendar or the stages of a person's life. They are closely linked to a community's worldview and perception of its own history and memory."

The majority of people indicated that events were essential to having a social connection to the community. Events and festivals are important for community wellbeing, they build feelings of belonging, identity, a sense of pride and help to grow awareness of diversity. They were also identified as being an increasingly important economic contributor, growing the visitor market and helping make Port Hope an attractive destination for new residents. They provide a valuable opportunity to showcase the unique and compelling identity of the region and the extraordinary experience that it is.

Propelling the Plan will continue the work to foster events that strengthen the region's identity, stimulate a prosperous, vibrant and engaged community and supply value.

Focus