The province has expanded the popular Star Attractions program to include major events and festivals under a new category called Star Celebrations. This announcement was made by Tourism, Culture, Heritage, Sport and Consumer Protection Minister Ron Lemieux.
“Our province is filled with exciting and unique tourist attractions, festivals and events,” Minister Lemieux said. “We want to recognize long-standing, major attractions and innovative new events that are building the province’s cultural fabric. Manitoba is where Canada’s Heart Beats, and showcasing the festivals and events that Manitoba families enjoy will demonstrate the heart of our communities and the diversity of our culture as well as attract new tourism opportunities.”
Similar to the Star Attractions program, the Star Celebrations designation will only be awarded to festivals and events that meet specific criteria, provide a superior visitor experience, and engage visitors in unique experiences and local culture.
“Manitoba is known for providing tourism experiences that are immersive, authentic and reflective of our roots,” said Colin Ferguson, president and CEO, Travel Manitoba. “The Star Celebrations program provides additional marketing support for tourism experiences that bring together our communities and our province as we welcome visitors to experience Manitoba’s incredible culture and hospitality.”
The launch of this program comes on the heels of a marked increase in visitors to the province this summer, the minister said. According to Travel Manitoba, there was a 50 per cent increase in border crossing into the province during the month of June. Meanwhile, the Canadian Museum of Human Rights saw a 30 per cent increase in visits while more than 195,000 people visited the Assiniboine Park Zoo.
Detailed program criteria and the application process is available online.
