The Manitoba government is providing over $221,000 in grants to 38 rural and northern communities to support festivals that promote understanding, awareness and appreciation of their heritage, culture and identity, Sport, Culture and Heritage Minister Obby Khan announced Thursday.
A number of the recipients are located here in the Central Plains, Interlake, Pembina and Red River valleys. They are:
- Manitoba Agricultural Museum Inc., Manitoba Threshermen's Reunion and Stampede, July 27 to 30 ($8,317.61);
- Arborg Agricultural Society, Arborg Agricultural Fair, July 22 to 23 ($5,000.55);
- Eriksdale Museum Inc., Eriksdale Creamery Days Fair and Rodeo, July 1 to 2, ($3,209.77);
- Lundar Agricultural Society, Lundar Fair, June 16 to 17 ($8,317.61);
- Valley Agricultural Society, Manitoba Stampede and Exhibition, July 21 to 23 ($40,600);
- City of Winkler, Winkler Harvest Festival, Aug. 11 to 13 ($8,317.61);
- Morden Corn and Apple Festival Inc., Morden Corn and Apple Festival, Aug. 25 to 27 ($8,317.61);
“Manitoba is known to have incredible festivals that truly showcase the unique character and spirit of our province and we encourage all Manitobans to get out and enjoy these celebrations,” said Khan. “I love the diversity, inclusiveness and cultural heritage in these great communities, and our government is proud to supports all forms of community festivals in all corners of this great province.”
The Community Festivals and Events Program provides operating grants to festivals that take place over a minimum of two days in rural and northern Manitoba. These festivals are recognized as the community’s signature annual event and encourage youth participation and leadership, the minister noted.
The Community Festivals and Events program support events that:
- encourage youth participation and leadership;
- reflect, celebrate, and profile the unique character of communities;
- foster a sense of identity and pride; and
- contribute to local tourism and economic activity.
This year’s funding increased from last year to allow additional funds for community celebrations, the minister added.
For more information about the Community Festivals and Events program, visit www.gov.mb.ca/chc/grants/heritage_grants.html#cfe.