In 2002 the Government of Canada announced the creation of a new program called "Cultural Capitals of Canada" to recognize and support Canadian municipalities for special activities that harness the arts and culture activities in the community. It provides municipalities with a financial contribution for eligible programs and expenditures.

The City of St. John's competed for and won the 2006 award and with it a financial contribution of over $500,000 towards an array of events and celebrations totaling $800,000.

A marketing strategy for some of our summer festivals

New Cultural Tourism products and services

Doubling of Art Procurement budget for one year and a catalogue of selected pieces of the collection

A mural depicting the history of our harbour

A Poet Laureate for the City of St. John's

A celebration of the 200th anniversary of the Benevolent Irish Society

A celebration of our Diverse Cultures through:
- An Aboriginal Youth Cultural Gathering,
- A Multi- cultural program for the City's summer concert series,
- Local programming developed around the Canadian Museum of
- Civilization's exhibit "Siqiniq: Under the Same Sun",
- Enhanced programming for francophone Festival of Wind,
- An exhibit of Labrador art and craft at Devon House
- Enhanced programming for Festival of the Wind

"The City of St. John's is known for its arts, culture, and heritage. This award acknowledges and celebrates our City's culture and heritage on a national stage," says Mayor Andy Wells.

For more information contact Economic Development, Tourism and Culture 709-576-8394

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Cultural Capital of Canada program, a program of the Department of Canadian Heritage.

The Downtown Development Commission is a partner in the Cultural Capitals of Canada program.