Support for Congrès mondial acadien 2024

The government is investing $2.5 million to support the Argyle and Clare regions in hosting Congrès mondial acadien, an international gathering of Acadian communities held every five years since 1994.

The event is scheduled for August 10-18, 2024. It will strengthen ties among Acadian communities around the world and showcase Nova Scotia on an international scale.

“Southwestern Nova Scotia is ready to welcome Acadians, Francophones and Francophiles from around the world for Congrès mondial acadien 2024,” said Colton LeBlanc, Minister of Acadian Affairs and Francophonie. “We are excited to bring together this vibrant community for extraordinary displays of pride and cultural spirit. The Province of Nova Scotia is proud to be a supporting partner for this important event, which will celebrate our unique Acadian culture, introduce visitors to all that Nova Scotia has to offer, and bring important benefits to the local economy.”

The funding will be used to promote and organize Congrès mondial acadien 2024. The Government of Canada is contributing $4.6 million. The Municipality of the District of Argyle and the Municipality of the District of Clare are also investing $250,000 each.

Quotes:

“As an Acadian, it is a great honour to announce that the Government of Canada will financially support the organization of the next Congrès mondial acadien. In 2019, I witnessed this gathering’s contribution to the development of Francophone and Acadian communities, and to economic development and the tourism sector. The 2024 CMA will be a memorable event for the thousands of participants who will come from the four corners of the world to celebrate Acadian culture and highlight the richness, vitality and many achievements of the Acadian people.”

– Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

“This funding will allow us to create unforgettable experiences that will rekindle the pride of belonging to the Acadian people among participants in Congrès mondial acadien 2024. The hosting of this major event will also bring significant economic and cultural benefits to the Southwest Nova Scotia region, its artists, organizations and businesses for years to come.”

– Allister Surette, President, Organizing Committee, Congrès mondial acadien 2024

Quick Facts:

• Nova Scotia last hosted Congrès mondial acadien in 2004
• Congrès mondial acadien 2024 is expected to draw more than 30,000 first-time visitors to the province, with an estimated economic impact of $25 million
• Clare and Argyle have the largest concentration of Acadians and francophones in rural Nova Scotia

Additional Resources:

Congrès mondial acadien 2024: https://www.cma2024.ca/

NOTE: The municipal contribution was updated August 11.