Provincial Funding for 400th Anniversary Festivals and Events

TOURISM/CULTURE--CXN--Provincial Funding for 400th Anniversary Festivals and Events

The province is offering help to community organizations that are marking the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the first permanent European settlers in Nova Scotia.

Non-profit and volunteer organizations can now apply for funding for festivals and events to commemorate the anniversary next year.

"This funding allows the province to help communities help themselves as they prepare for the anniversary celebrations," said Rodney MacDonald, Minister of Tourism and Culture. "Community-based activities are an important part of the celebrations that will be held across Nova Scotia in 2004."

Non-profit and volunteer organizations can apply for funding to help with new or expanded festivals and events to commemorate the 400th anniversary. A total of $50,000 is available and successful applicants will be provided with up to $2,500 for an event. The first deadline for applications is Nov. 21, 2003, with a second deadline of Feb. 20, 2004.

"These local events will help increase the awareness and pride of the Acadian heritage in Nova Scotia," said Chris d'Entremont, Minister responsible for Acadian Affairs. "We know that reunions are being organized and many visitors will come celebrate with their families and friends."

The funding is part of the provincial government's support for the Acadian Celebrations 2003-2005. The Nova Scotia government has provided $750,000 to help promote and market the Acadian Celebrations in Nova Scotia.