Summer Festivals in the Northwest Territories Keep Charming Residents and Visitors

Minister Kerry-Lynne Findlay announces Government of Canada funding


YELLOWKNIFE, NORTHWEST TERRITORIES--(Marketwired - July 9, 2014) - Department of Canadian Heritage

The Government of Canada is providing financial support to three organizations in the Northwest Territories for community and arts festivals.

The Honourable Kerry-Lynne Findlay, Minister of National Revenue, on behalf of the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today announced total funding of $47,300. Support is provided through two programs of the Department of Canadian Heritage: Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage and the Canada Arts Presentation Fund.

A breakdown of the funding is available in the attached backgrounder.

Quick Facts

• Artists from across southern and northern Canada will gather in Yellowknife from July 17 to 20, 2014, for the 34th edition of Folk on the Rocks. Up to 5,000 people are expected to attend this music festival, which is presenting an exciting lineup once again this year.

• Approximately 2,500 people are expected to attend the Old Town Ramble and Ride Festival in Yellowknife's unique historic area from August 1 to 3, 2014. Activities will include musical and dance performances, storytelling, and presentations on local history and of local artisans' work.

• The End of the Road Music Festival will present concerts showcasing local musicians in a variety of genres such as fiddling, country and rock, as well as dance performances. The 11th edition of the festival will take place in Inuvik from August 15 to 17, 2014.

Quotes

"The Government of Canada recognizes that arts and culture are important generators of economic growth, jobs, and wealth in our communities. That is why we are proud to support the work of these organizations as they enhance the vitality of their community and help strengthen connections among Canadians."

-The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages

"By increasing opportunities for artists and artisans to be involved in their community and to commemorate local history and heritage, we are building stronger communities. Our Government recognizes the value of local arts and heritage activities and we are proud to invest in projects that contribute to our collective identity and define who we are as Canadians."

-The Honourable Kerry-Lynne Findlay, Minister of National Revenue

"We are delighted to receive this all-important funding from Canadian Heritage. It goes a long way in supporting the operational efforts of Folk on the Rocks. It is wonderful to see the recognition that festivals so rightly deserve be rewarded like this, as they are intrinsic to the cultural ecosystem of our region and add to the quality of life for all our residents."

-David Whitelock, Executive Director, Folk on the Rocks Festival

Associated Links

Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage

Canada Arts Presentation Fund

Old Town Ramble and Ride

Folk on the Rocks

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Backgrounder

Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage
This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.
Inuvik End of the Road Music Festival Society End of the Road Music Festival $2,400 (2014-2015)
Yellowknife Old Town Community Association Old Town Ramble and Ride $4,900 (2014-2015)
TOTAL: $7,300
Canada Arts Presentation Fund
This fund gives Canadians increased access to the variety and richness of Canada's culture through professional arts festivals, presentations of live professional performances, and other artistic experiences.
Yellowknife Folk on the Rocks Folk on the Rocks 2014 $40,000 (2014-2015)
TOTAL: $40,000
GRAND TOTAL, ALL PROGRAMS: $47,300

Contact Information:

Marisa Monnin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788

Francine D. Lefebvre
Regional Manager, Communications
Prairies and Northern Region
Canadian Heritage
Tel.: 204-983-4367 / Cell: 204-899-8611
francine.lefebvre@pch.gc.ca

Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca