N.S. Events Named 100 Best for 1999

The American Bus Association (ABA) has included two Nova Scotia events on its list of major attractions for group travellers.

Louisbourg's Encampment 99 and Halifax's 250th anniversary celebrations, both of which are scheduled next summer, have been included in the ABA's prestigious Top 100 Events in North America.

"These two hallmark events are part of what makes Nova Scotia a world-renowned tourism destination," said Manning MacDonald, Minister of Economic Development and Tourism. "The American Bus Association's Top 100 list is a very influential source in the motorcoach industry. These two listings will be a terrific asset to next year's tourist season."

The Halifax 250th anniversary celebrations commemorate the founding of the city as a British naval garrison by Edward Cornwallis in 1749. There will be three days of events, June 25-27, including a recreation of the landing by Cornwallis, encampments of British soldiers and Mi'kmaq on the Commons, the raising of the Union Jack, parades throughout the city and a governor's ball in period costume.

Encampment 99 will be held July 23-25 at Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site. The encampment will mark the 250th anniversary of the return of Louisbourg to French control in 1749, four years after its capture by New Englanders and British troops. Events will include battlefield re-enactments, music, dance, crafts, demonstrations of camp life and special ceremonies. Organizers expect over 2,000 history enthusiasts, all in 18th-century attire, from North America, Great Britain, France and Belgium.

"We're delighted that the ABA has acknowledged our 250th anniversary celebrations in Halifax as an event of significance across North America," said Joe Gillivan, general manager, Holiday Inn Select Halifax and chair of the Millennium Marketing Committee. "History and pageantry are very attractive elements of today's travel packages. Clearly, ABA shares our belief that history is happening in Halifax."

The 1999 Louisbourg Encampment will be even bigger and better than its predecessor in 1995, predicted Carol Whitfield, field unit superintendent for Parks Canada in Cape Breton.
"In the re-enactment community, Louisbourg is the mecca of living history on the continent," said Ms. Whitfield. "For thousands of visitors, it will be a rare opportunity to experience the pageantry of Canadian history. We are extremely proud to have once again been selected as one of the Top 100 events in North America."