2023 marks a year of celebration for Fredericton
Activities being planned to mark 175th anniversary as a city and the history that went before
March 30, 2023 marks the 175th anniversary of Fredericton’s incorporation as a city. To mark that occasion, and the thousands of years of history that went before, a year of celebrations is being planned.
Fredericton was incorporated as a city on March 30, 1848, by an Act of the Provincial Legislature. Originally home to the Wolastoqiyik People, the French and British followed. Today, this scenic bend on the river is home to people from around the world.
The Fredericton 175+ logo represents this rich history. Centred around Fredericton’s iconic City Hall clock tower, the colours used represent the natural surroundings of the city and region. The yellow star represents our Acadian culture and has been taken from the Acadian flag in the exact same shape and colour. The base of the logo is the Wabanaki Circle of Life Motif and represents the strong tie to the Indigenous community.
The City has already promoted a call for interested parties to apply for its Fredericton 175+ Community Celebration Grants. Seven grants, totalling $50,000, will be made available to celebrate our heritage and culture. The activities must build community engagement around Fredericton 175 & more and need to demonstrate inclusivity and engagement with the community. All activities must occur by December 31, 2023.
Activities for March 30, 2023 will include birthday cake and a flag raising at City Hall, as well as the announcement of the Fredericton 175+ Community Celebration Grants recipients. While other events may take place throughout the year, the main celebratory events for Fredericton 175+ will be held this summer, between August 10-20. This will include:
- a Mayor’s Ice Cream social,
- entertainment at the Garrison Night Market,
- a concert series in The Tannery, in partnership with Downtown Fredericton Inc.,
- activities on Fredericton’s north side, in partnership with Business Fredericton North,
- concerts in Barracks Square,
- outdoor dances on Carleton Street, and
- an evening of celebrations at the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, in partnership with St. Mary’s First Nation.
“We have a rich history to celebrate here in Fredericton and what better way to do that than with a year long recognition of the diverse peoples and cultures that have shaped what and who we are today," said Fredericton Mayor Kate Rogers. “The timing is perfect for us to come together as a community for some fun entertainment and activities.”
To support the communications and promotions of Fredericton 175+, resident will be encouraged to follow the dedicated Fredericton 175+ Facebook page, which will focus on storytelling, in partnership with local writers. There will be banners and local advertising efforts. Residents can also visit www.Fredericton175.ca web page for more information and are encouraged to like our Fredericton 175+ Facebook page.