Supporting Local Arts and Heritage in Yarmouth County

News Release

Government of Canada provides funding to the Western Nova Scotia Exhibition

May 8, 2015 – Yarmouth, Nova Scotia – Department of Canadian Heritage

Greg Kerr, Member of Parliament (West Nova), on behalf of the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today announced an investment of $13,200 in the Yarmouth County Agricultural Society.

The Society will use this funding, provided through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage Program, to present the 156^th edition of the Western Nova Scotia Exhibition in Yarmouth from late July to early August 2015. Participants will be able to enjoy music and dance performances, as well as artisan demonstrations including blacksmithing, barrel making, jewellery making, rug hooking, quilting and spinning. The Exhibition will also present Aboriginal dance and drum performances, art exhibits, a songwriters' circle and local history talks.

Quick Facts

The Yarmouth County Agricultural Society is a local, incorporated, non-profit organization that promotes arts and heritage in the community.
The history of the Yarmouth County Agricultural Society dates back to 1842, with the first agricultural exhibition taking place in 1859.
The 156^th Exhibition will feature the work of 120 local artists, artisans, and heritage performers. It will rely on the participation of 100 volunteers.

Quotes

“Our Government is committed to investing in community groups that provide citizens with opportunities to take pride in their history and heritage. We also know that such activities contribute to the quality of life and the economy of a community.”

—The Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages

“The Yarmouth County Agricultural Society is a longstanding organization that continues to bring local arts and heritage activities to people living in and visiting Yarmouth. I am pleased that our Government supports a group that gives so much to its community.”

—Greg Kerr, Member of Parliament (West Nova)

“The Western Nova Scotia Exhibition is going into its 156^th year in 2015, and we are pleased to have the Department of Canadian Heritage support the agricultural and fishing heritage we strive to share with our visitors. We also appreciate the Department's support of our South West Nova Cultural and Arts Extravaganza, which showcases local artists and how they make their wares.”

—Amy Rose, President, Yarmouth County Agricultural Society