February 12, 2003

THE PAS, Man.--A new program to help the hundreds of vibrant rural and northern Manitoba community festivals grow was announced today by Culture, Heritage and Tourism Minister Eric Robinson on the first day of the 56^th annual Trappers' Festival, the province’s longest running winter celebration.

"Many rural and northern communities throughout Manitoba celebrate their unique character through annual festivals," said Robinson. "The Trappers' Festival is an example of the success and popularity of festivals throughout the province which, as cultural gatherings, provide a strong foundation for a region's economic activity."

Through the new festivals support program, the province will offer for the first time:

• consultation in festival planning, programming and marketing; and
• resources and funding to help rural and northern festivals build on their co-operative relationships with the local community, governments and the private sector.

"The province is committed to supporting signature events that reflect the depth and diversity of our many communities and bolster our reputation as the festival capital of Canada," said Robinson. "This new program is targeted to local festivals which do not have access to other provincial government programs, but have emerged as signature annual events in rural and northern communities."

Robinson added that a key component of all festivals should be to create opportunities for the participation of youth.

Speaking at the opening ceremonies for the Trappers' Festival about the Throne Speech 2002 commitment to assist rural and northern festivals, Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Minister Oscar Lathlin said that annual cultural gatherings such as the one in The Pas are important for rural and northern regions.

"The Trappers' Festival draws people from surrounding communities and throughout the province to travel to our region and enjoy authentic northern hospitality," said Lathlin. "This event embodies the pride of friends and families who pay tribute to their ancestors through traditional activities such as canoe packing, bannock baking and dog sled races. Whether it's the dedication of the volunteers or the increased promotion for local businesses, these events symbolize the cultural spirit of Manitoba communities."

Lathlin noted that improving social and economic opportunities is a key focus of the provincial Northern Development Strategy.

Robinson also announced $20,000 in support of the Trappers' Festival which runs Feb. 12-16. Detailed information on events at the festival is available on the Internet at http://www.trappersfestival.com or by contacting the festival office in The Pas at 204-623-2912.

A current listing of community events is also available on the Internet at http://www.travelmanitoba.com/events.

Information packages about the new program have been mailed out to festival organizations and are also available through the regional offices of Manitoba Culture, Heritage and Tourism.

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