Muskoka Summerfest has yet to sell a single ticket, and it already has government sponsors lining up to hand over tens of thousands of dollars.

The provincial government announced last week that it will back the upcoming event to the tune of $75,000 as part of the Celebrate Ontario initiative. That’s in addition to the $7,500 pledged by the Town of Bracebridge, plus in-kind and floating contributions based on the number of participants.

The event is scheduled to run June 27, 28 and 29 at the Bracebridge fairgrounds. According to organizer Beth Wilson, the event will feature live music and entertainment, a children’s area, a Muskoka lifestyle pavilion with local businesses, and a taste of Muskoka section featuring food and drink from the area.

Plans for the inaugural event were announced by Wilson in October 2007, and Bracebridge town council agreed to fund the project in December.

The pledge of $75,000 from the province came in conjunction with the announcement of an additional $21,000 for the Huntsville Festival of the Arts, which runs from July 3 to Aug. 15.

“Festivals and events play a major role in boosting tourism across the province,” said Peter Fonseca, minister of tourism. “Tourism is an important economic driver and ensuring its long-term growth is part of our plan to strengthen Ontario’s economic advantage.”

Upon hearing the news, Wilson said the money will help fast-track the festival to include a broader scope of activities, and help with their marketing efforts.

“We’re thrilled to have the support of Celebrate Ontario for our first year,” said Wilson. “Thanks to their recognition of the potential of Muskoka Summerfest, we now have the tools to create the biggest event of the season in Muskoka.”

Wilson said as a result of the increased marketing budget, businesses that choose to participate will now have access to a much wider market.

Wilson said the organization of the festival is coming along well and they are currently booking vendors to fill the exhibit spaces available.

She also commended the town for being instrumental in helping to secure the provincial grant.

Cheryl Kelley, Bracebridge director of economic development, said town staff helped out with the grant application process, and she was pleased to hear of its success.

“It’s terrific. I think it’s going to help them put on an even better event,” said Kelley.

Kelley said the provincial announcement will have no effect on the funding pledge already made by the town.

Kelley said she expects the event to provide a showcase for business, promote local activities and draw in out-of-town visitors while promoting Muskoka as a permanent place to live.