The federal government announced on Monday that it will be investing $40,000 in two Muskoka festivals.

Muskoka Lakes Music Festival will receive $20,000, and Huntsville Festival of the Arts will receive the same amount.

“I am very pleased to be able to bring this funding for the arts in Muskoka,” said Tony Clement. “The Huntsville Festival of the Arts and the Muskoka Lakes Music Festival help to showcase our vibrant arts community and bring together people from all over the region to celebrate our shared culture and heritage.”

“The continued support of the federal government, through Heritage Canada, has allowed us to significantly broaden our programming and has encouraged us to showcase up-and-coming artists from across the country,” said Rob Saunders, general manager of the Huntsville Festival of the Arts. “We look forward to another great festival and another chance to contribute to the arts, education and economy of Huntsville and the surrounding area.”

“We are very proud to be celebrating the 12th season of the Muskoka Lakes Musical Festival this year, and we are all happy for this timely contribution from the federal government,” stated managing director Gary Froude. “It is extremely encouraging that our government is placing such value on and support for the growth of our arts and culture products in Muskoka.”