Fredericton has been designated as a Cultural Capital of Canada for 2009 by the federal Department of Canadian Heritage. During the year, city residents and visitors alike will be exposed to a diverse program that brings together music, theatre, film, and visual arts.
This national program is intended to recognize and support Canadian municipalities for special activities that harness the many benefits of arts and culture in community life. Funding under the program is provided to support special projects that celebrate the arts and culture.
Municipalities like Fredericton may be awarded up to $500,000 for such activities, depending on partnerships developed. The City of Fredericton will also contribute up to $150,000 in cash and service in-kind towards the celebrations. All activities are intended to be celebratory and/or leave a lasting cultural legacy.
The announcement naming Fredericton as a Cultural Capital was made in January 2008. Fredericton joins four other municipalities of varying sizes in sharing this honour for 2009. For more on Fredericton's activities and the federal program, visit the various links found in the Related Content column.