Nova Scotia Celebrates First Provincial Acadian Day

PREMIER'S OFFICE/ACADIAN AFFAIRS--Nova Scotia Celebrates First Provincial Acadian Day

Premier John Hamm and Acadian Affairs Minister Chris d'Entremont would like to wish everyone a happy Provincial Acadian Day, Sunday, Aug. 15.

"Acadian culture is such an important part of Nova Scotia's history as well as its future," said Premier Hamm. "It's an honour that Nova Scotia is the province hosting the Congrès mondial in a year that is such an important milestone for Acadians and our province."

Premier Hamm has participated in a number of Congrès events, including the official opening in Church Point and the Festival du Mitan in Cheticamp. He will also participate in the closing mass in Grand Pré on Sunday, Aug. 15.

This year Provincial Acadian Day will fall on the final day of the Congrès mondial acadien festivities.

"It is fitting that Provincial Acadian Day be proclaimed this year as Acadians and friends of Acadians from around the world come to Nova Scotia to celebrate the 400th anniversary of their arrival in North America," said Mr. d'Entremont.

Mr. d'Entremont also took part in the in the official opening of the Congrès, has attended numerous Acadian family reunions and will attend the closing mass at Grand Pré.

Since 1881, Acadians have recognized Aug. 15 as their national holiday. It has been proclaimed National Acadian Day by the federal government. Earlier this year, the Nova Scotia legislature unanimously passed Bill 51, enshrining Aug. 15 into law as Provincial Acadian Day.