LUNENBURG, Nova Scotia, July 25, 2011 – The Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival Society will once again host its annual celebration, thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada. Support was announced today by Gerald Keddy, Member of Parliament (South Shore–St. Margaret’s), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

The Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival is the longest-running folk festival in Nova Scotia. This year’s festival, which will take place from August 4 to 7, will feature both Canadian and international performers, as well as established and emerging artists. The festival’s development and outreach activities will focus on dance, song, and instrument workshops, and will include a children’s stage and lecture series.

“Our Government received a strong mandate from Canadians to invest and celebrate important local festivals like the Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival,” said Minister Moore. “By supporting these celebrations, our Government is delivering on its commitment to strengthen our communities and support arts, culture, and heritage.”

“The Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival features outstanding traditional and contemporary folk music and dance, which is an important part of our Nova Scotia identity,” said Mr. Keddy. “Hosting this wonderful celebration right here in Lunenburg is an excellent opportunity to showcase our musicians along with some great international artists.”

“Funding from the Government of Canada assists the Lunenburg Folk Harbour Society in bringing first-class music to Lunenburg and area year round,” said Marilyn Keddy, Society President. “As the longest-running folk festival in Nova Scotia, we owe our success to our audiences, dedicated volunteers, and funding partners. Through Canada Arts Presentation Fund support for our festival, we have been able to develop a number of educational and artistic projects that contribute to the vibrant cultural life of our community.”

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $25,000 through the Canada Arts Presentation Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program gives Canadians increased access to the variety and richness of Canada’s culture through professional arts festivals, presentations of live professional performances, and other artistic experiences.