Government of Canada Supports Quebec Winter Carnival

QUÉBEC CITY, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - Feb. 10, 2012) - The Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities and Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, today announced the awarding of financial assistance from the Government of Canada to the Québec Winter Carnival.

"Our support of the Québec Winter Carnival's commercialization project is yet another example of the Government of Canada's commitment to encouraging initiatives that help diversify Quebec's regional economies, in this case through tourism development," explained Minister Lebel.

The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, also underscored the importance of the Government of Canada's support of this event.

"Canadians have given us a clear mandate: to invest in events that, like the Québec Winter Carnival, showcase the talent of our local artists and highlight the heritage of our regions," said Minister Moore.

"This financial support from the federal government will allow us to further build on our product so that visitors from all over will be able to enjoy an enhanced carnival experience. This increased visibility will not only serve the Carnival itself, it will also be beneficial to the whole greater Québec area as well," added Alain Winter, President of the 58th Québec Winter Carnival.

In its nearly 60 years of existence, the Québec Winter Carnival has become a hallmark event of the winter season. The public festival, which has distinguished itself over time and grown in both reputation and popularity, is now an important attraction for the City of Québec, where winter tourism is a key asset that benefits the entire region. The festivities, led by Bonhomme Carnaval, generate significant economic, cultural, media and tourism spinoffs. The Canadian Tourism Commission counts the event as part of its Signature Experiences Collection®.

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This $872,800 in funding announced today is non-repayable.

Of this amount, Canada Economic Development is contributing $800,000 through its Community Diversification program to help the Carnival enrich its product and pursue its commercialization efforts, particularly on international markets.

An additional contribution of $72,800 from Canadian Heritage will enable the Carnival to feature some 440 local artists and performers in musical concerts, heritage and other activities and animation events for children. This investment is awarded through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program, an initiative that increases opportunities for Canadians to take part in activities showcasing local arts and culture or commemorating a region's history and heritage.

Keep up with the latest news from Canada Economic Development by visiting www.dec-ced.gc.ca or subscribing to @CanEconDev on Twitter.

This release can also be found at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca, under Newsroom.