The Town of Halton Hills received national recognition for its vibrant arts and culture sector for its 2023 Culture Days celebration. The Town placed 2nd for Top Participating Mid-Size Cities and 3rd overall nationwide for the 118 free and by donation arts and culture activities presented by artists, cultural organizations and businesses. This is the first time that Halton Hills has placed in the top 3 in either category.
Local celebrations also received accolades from Ontario Culture Days, winning the Spotlight Award for Best Collaborative Program for “A Place I Call Home Halton”. This interactive installation was created and led by contemporary artist Faisal Anwar in collaboration with the Town of Halton Hills, Town of Oakville, Town of Milton, Museums of Burlington, and Halton Region Heritage Services. Interpretations of “HOME” were shared by project participants through social media, culminating in an installation projected in community-centred locations within Halton Region including the John Elliott Theatre in Georgetown and ZAPA Projects in Acton.
“In Halton Hills we are fortunate to have a tremendous depth of talent in our arts and culture community. Our artists, cultural groups and creative businesses play a critical role in fostering connections, providing opportunities to learn, and creating economic growth. It’s wonderful to see our Town celebrated as one of Canada’s most creative municipalities.” said Mayor Ann Lawlor.
From September 23 to October 15, 2023, there were over 6,000 participants at the 118 in-person, self-guided and digital programs presented in 32 venues across Halton Hills. A whopping 314 artists were involved in providing cultural experiences to residents and tourists. Cultural experiences were expanded this year with an increase in activities presented by local businesses and 20 first-time activity organizers.
Culture Days is an annual national celebration of arts and culture that invites the public to participate in free and by-donation arts and cultural events to try something new and discover local arts and culture opportunities.
To learn more about Culture Days in Halton Hills or to get involved with planning for 2024, visit haltonhills.ca/culturedays.
