I’m excited to rise today to highlight an exciting celebration that is returning to my riding of Oakville. Culture Days provides the opportunity to explore with local artists, share in cultural events, and celebrate Oakville’s lakeside charm. From September 22 to October 15, our community comes alive with an array of arts and culture in nearly 100 events.

At last year’s Culture Days 2022, the town of Oakville was ranked number one in the participating communities listing. The town was recognized and earned the top spot in Canada.

This year, get ready to immerse yourself and explore the nearly 100 local events, such as the return of the World of Threads Festival; hearing singers, songwriters and inspirational speakers; celebrating Indigenous heritage and culture; enjoying live shows with community musical performers such as the Yuan Yin Group and the Halton Region Chinese Canadian Association; discovering history at the Oakville Museum and learning about Oakville’s role in the Underground Railroad; and much, much more.

Speaker, I have to take this opportunity to acknowledge that Culture Days in Oakville and across Ontario is thanks to support by the Ontario Trillium Foundation.

Supporting our local artists allows them to thrive and showcase their talents.

As we approach the final stretch of Oakville’s Culture Days, I would like to invite everybody to celebrate, learn, and enjoy this festival together.

And happy Thanksgiving to all the members of the Legislature and all the staff here today.