Calgary, Alberta, July 8, 2012 -- On behalf of the Honourable Peter Kent, Canada's Environment Minister and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the Honourable Ted Menzies, Minister of State (Finance) and Member of Parliament for MacLeod, today will unveil a Historic Plaque and Monuments Board of Canada plaque recognizing the Calgary Stampede, billed as "The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth," as an event of national historic significance.
"You can't think of Canada without thinking of the Calgary Stampede, and I'm very happy to announce the designation of the Stampede as a national historic event in its centennial year," said Minister Menzies. "The Stampede has played an important role in preserving key elements of an historic western-Canadian "way of life" as well as distinctive cultural traditions of its First Nations participants."
Originally conceived as a "one time party, a farewell gesture to a dying way of life", the Calgary Stampede now attracts over one million visitors per year.
"The Calgary Stampede is a necessary stop on anyone's cross-Canada trip, from international tourists, to Canadian families on their traditional summer road trip, to members of the Royal Family," added Minister Kent. "Along with the Rocky Mountains, and the Mounties, the Calgary Stampede is truly one of the most recognizable symbols of Canada to the world."
Established in 1919 and supported by Parks Canada, the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada advises the Minister of the Environment regarding the national historic significance of places, persons and events that have marked Canada's history. Parks Canada manages a nation-wide network of national historic sites that make up a rich tapestry of Canada's historical heritage and that offer visitors the opportunity for real and inspiring discoveries.
For additional information, please see the accompanying backgrounder at www.parkscanada.gc.ca under Media Room.
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Information:
Adam Sweet
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of the Environment
819-997-1441
Media Relations
Parks Canada
819-953-8371
http://www.twitter.com/parkscanada
Backgrounder associated with this News Release.
THE CALGARY STAMPEDE
