The Government of Alberta is currently accepting proposals from those interested in being designated Alberta Culture Days Celebration Sites.
Alberta Culture Days, formerly Alberta Arts Days, runs September 28 to 30 in conjunction with the national Culture Days movement. To support the province-wide celebration, the Government of Alberta is again making funding available to those wishing to host cultural events and be designated official Celebration Sites. All nonprofit/voluntary, multicultural, heritage and arts organizations are encouraged to apply.
Two levels of funding are available: up to $20,000 to be designated a Feature Celebration Site; and up to $5,000 to be designated a Host Celebration Site. Consideration will be given to those who partner with others in their community to present cultural programming. Interested applicants should visit www.albertaculturedays.ca. The application deadline is May 8.
The scope of this annual provincial celebration was expanded this year in response to input received through Culture Forum 2012. Participants felt this change would help encourage broader participation and support the efforts of Alberta’s arts, heritage, nonprofit/voluntary, multicultural and youth serving organizations. It also reflects the importance of increased collaboration and partnerships across the relevant sectors.
Hosting an Alberta Culture Days event is a wonderful opportunity to foster community relationships and showcase local talent. It’s also a great way for organizations to boost the impact and reach of existing efforts to promote the value and availability of cultural programming in our province. Culture connects our people, our communities and our province.
Last year, thousands of Albertans enjoyed 1,046 events and activities in 93 communities, hosted by an array of organizations including schools, libraries, recreation centres, arts and multicultural groups, social serving organizations; and many others. Among these were 64 Host Celebration Sites and five Feature Celebration Sites, which received support from the Government of Alberta. All Albertans are encouraged to participate in Alberta Culture Days by attending some of the hundreds of free, family-friendly events; or hosting one of their own.