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Creative Economy

Creative Economy in Kawartha Lakes

Welcome to the thriving Creative Economy in Kawartha Lakes. This burgeoning sector has witnessed remarkable growth, evident in the numerous craft-based studios dotting our picturesque landscape. Our commitment to Film and Television production is underscored by the newly established Film Office, streamlining the permitting process with a single point of contact.

The performing arts scene is vibrant, with four theaters in Lindsay, Bobcaygeon, and Fenelon Falls hosting coral ensembles and concert bands, seamlessly blending with contemporary artists such as Dwayne Gretsky, James Barker Band, and the Strumbellas. Celebrating the caliber and diversity of visual artists, temporary public art installations like "That’s a Wrap" grace our streets until 2027, alongside galleries like the Kinmount Artisans Marketplace, Fenelon Station Gallery, and the Kawartha Art Gallery.

Kawartha Lakes continues to bolster this creative hub through initiatives like the Cultural Centre Feasibility study, curatorial and heritage services, Osprey Heritage Awards, and Operational Funding for Cultural non-profits. Join us in nurturing and celebrating the flourishing Creative Economy that defines Kawartha Lakes.

image of man with chainsaw sculpting a bird

Local Kawartha Lakes Resources

In June 2020, Kawartha Lakes Council adopted a 10-year Cultural Master Plan (CMP) for 2020-2030. This plan aims to provide a long-term vision and strategic action framework to guide the growth of the local cultural economy, enhance quality of life, and support placemaking, ensuring it reflects the unique cultural identify of Kawartha Lakes.
The Kawartha Lakes Cultural Roundtable Meetings are held on an ad hoc basis, bringing together stakeholders in open forums. These meetings welcome all participants as equals to discuss and explore solutions for specific issues and opportunities through focused discussions and partnership building.

ddThe Kawartha Lakes Cultural Map is a hands-on tool to help you find and access information on over 700 cultural resources in Kawartha Lakes. The map is interactive and allows you to click on specific locations to find more information, visit their website or purchase event tickets.

The map includes:

  • cultural businesses
  • organizations
  • cultural facilities and spaces
  • festivals and events
  • heritage assets

The Kawartha Lakes Cultural Map is a hands-on tool to help you find and access information on over 700 cultural resources in Kawartha Lakes. The map is interactive and allows you to click on specific locations to find more information, visit their website or purchase event tickets.

The map includes:
  • cultural businesses
  • organizations
  • cultural facilities and spaces
  • festivals and events
  • heritage assets

The Kawartha Lakes Cultural Map is a hands-on tool to help you find and access information on over 700 cultural resources in Kawartha Lakes. The map is interactive and allows you to click on specific locations to find more information, visit their website or purchase event tickets.

The map includes:

  • cultural businesses
  • organizations
  • cultural facilities and spaces
  • festivals and events
  • heritage assets

 Top Creative Economy Sub-Sectors

image of Nicole Mitchell

"You feel like you're making a difference. Culture in Kawartha Lakes is significantly growing, and I feel like growing quickly. Really picking up and there are so many artists who live here"

- Nicole Myers Mitchell with The Grove Theatre


Market Research Tool

Our market research tools will assist you in making informed decisions by providing insights into the latest business indicators for Kawartha Lakes.

 

 


Available programs to support the creative economy sector

Local education programs supporting the Creative Economy

Contact the team

image of Donna Goodwin

 

Donna Goodwin

Economic Development Officer
705-324-9411 extension 1498
dgoodwin@kawarthalakes.ca

 Here is how I can help.

  • Assist in the development of creative based programs and products
  • Connect you with other creative opportunities
  • Understand funding for cultural non-profits and creatives
  • Facilitate permitting and locations for film/TV productions
  • Marketing through the Arts and Heritage Trail
  • Temporary and permanent Public Art projects

 

Contact Us