2007 Cultural Capitals of Canada

• Edmonton, Alberta
• Comox Valley, British Columbia
• Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan
• Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec
• Wendake, Quebec

Edmonton, Alberta

Category: Population over 125 000 – Maximum contribution: $2 million

"Building Connections" emerges from Edmonton's recognition of the contribution made by culture to quality of life. In keeping with this vision, 2007 will set the scene for a series of projects, which includes a year-long poetry festival. "Nightworks," a series of performances and light displays, will highlight the city's urban landscape. "Edmonton Explorations" will feature visual and media arts productions and exhibits by local artists. The year 2007 will truly be dedicated to "building connections" as Edmonton showcases its cultural vitality and the diversity of its population and strengthens ties between citizens and artists.

Comox Valley, British Columbia

Category: Population between 50 000 and 125 000 – Maximum contribution: $750,000

"Land of Plenty" brings together five communities in the Comox Valley, whose name comes from the First Nation word k'omoks, which means "a celebration of creative abundance." From the creation of an original musical theatre production immortalizing local legends to the preservation of Aboriginal cultural traditions and public art installations and performances, "Land of Plenty" celebrates the cultural history and vitality of all five communities and involves residents and visitors in exploring and celebrating the links between these communities' landscape, heritage industries, and creative sector.

Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan

Category: Population under 50 000 – Maximum contribution: $500,000

Moose Jaw's commitment to the arts and culture shines through in its "Year of the Creative Person. " Celebrations include an art project and workshops to introduce the public to works and techniques of an Aboriginal painter and a sidewalk artist, a summer play exploring Moose Jaw's colourful reputation as the "Chicago of the Prairies," drama camps for children, and song-writing workshops. Moose Jaw's strong sense of community spirit will be highlighted throughout the year as a 2007 Cultural Capital of Canada.

Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec

Category: Population under 50 000 – Maximum contribution: $500,000

Célébrer le passé, construire l'avenir features cultural heritage and its place in contemporary times. The project comprises seven theme areas including a number of cultural projects that will have positive cultural, social, tourist and economic impacts. The community wishes to demonstrate its ongoing commitment to arts and culture through contemporary development inspired by Charlevoix traditions.

Wendake, Quebec

Category: Population under 50 000 – Maximum contribution: $500,000

Located 10 kilometres north of downtown Quebec City, Wendake has a strong sense of place, which is reflected in its programming. Its artists and unique culture will be at the forefront of the Carrefour des arts et de la culture. Wendake will become a cultural space where contemporary creation emphasizes the community's living culture. Theatrical productions, concerts and public art will be featured. These initiatives will leave a lasting legacy as a testimony to Wendake's commitment to the arts and culture.