The Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival is unique in the world because of its urban setting

The Government of Canada supports this colourful Festival in the Outaouais region with a contribution of $183,300

GATINEAU, QC, Aug. 8, 2018 /CNW Telbec/ - Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions (CED) and Canadian Heritage

The Government of Canada's support for cultural events helps generate substantial economic and media benefits in the regions where they are held, while providing an exceptional showcase for our local artists and artisans.

Steven MacKinnon, Member of Parliament for Gatineau and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Services and Procurement, on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for CED, and on behalf of the Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism, announced the Canadian government's financial support for the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival (GHABF). This spectacular, festive annual event will take place on the shores of the Ottawa River in La Baie Park, from August 30 to September 3, 2018.

CED has awarded $90,000 in financial assistance in the form of a non-repayable contribution, under the Quebec Economic Development Program. This funding will, among other things, support the marketing of the Festival outside Quebec for promoting the region's tourism profile and attracting many visitors from the area and elsewhere.

As for Canadian Heritage, it is providing $93,300 for the 2018 edition of the event, through the Building Communities through Arts and Heritage program. This funding will help showcase artists from the Outaouais region, while supporting the work of the many volunteers who help organize the Festival.

Quotes

"Every summer, this picturesque event attracts enthusiastic festival-goers and people who love hot air balloons. The Festival is a showcase for the Outaouais, while contributing to its economic vitality. Congratulations to the organizers, volunteers and students who continue to make this event the pride of our region."

Steven MacKinnon, MP for Gatineau and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Services and Procurement

"The Government of Canada supports mobilizing and unifying projects such as the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival that showcase the various regions of Canada on the international stage. These projects generate significant benefits in terms of jobs, tourism and visibility for Canada."

The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister responsible for CED

"The Government of Canada is pleased to support events like the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival that make it easier for artists to connect with the people of their region. We would also like to acknowledge the important work of the volunteers who, year after year, ensure that the Festival is a success."

The Honourable Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism

"As the 31st edition of the GHABF approaches, this positive response from the government strengthens the energy and dynamism within the Festival Corporation. Also, all the players involved in making this large-scale event a reality welcome this news as a token of confidence. These substantial amounts make it possible to showcase local talent and also attract tourists from outside Quebec who generate $9.7 million in economic benefits for the Outaouais region."

Stéphane Riel, President of the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival

Quick Facts

• The Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival generates $9.7 million in benefits and welcomes nearly 200,000 visitors annually and more than 1,200 camping trailers.
• Festival goers can enjoy, among other things, programming that offers 300 shows and activities, hot air balloon flights and multiple family activities.
• CED is one of the six regional development agencies under the responsibility of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development. This year marks the 50th anniversary of federal regional economic development in Quebec: half a century of concrete action dedicated to the development of the regions and local businesses.
• Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage – Local Festivals component provides funding to local groups for recurring festivals that present the work of local artists, artisans or heritage performers.

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SOURCE Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions

For further information: Media Relations, Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, Phone: [phone], Email: [email protected]; Simon Ross, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Multiculturalism, 819-997-7788; Media Relations, Canadian Heritage, 819-994-9101, 1-866-569-6155, [email protected]