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Albertans have the chance to discover, experience and celebrate arts and culture in their communities during Alberta Culture Days, Sept. 27–29.

“Our government is proud to support Alberta’s vibrant culture. Alberta Culture Days help us all better understand the arts, culture, diversity and community spirit in our province. Last year was one of our best yet, and we’re excited to see what 2019 brings. I encourage all communities and organizations to apply for an Alberta Culture Days grant to share their art, music, history and food this September.”

Ricardo Miranda, Minister of Culture and Tourism

Executive Director of Lacombe Regional Tourism Angel Hand says if organizations in Lacombe want to apply for these grants, they should check in with their office first, so they don't waste the grant double dipping on advertising.

“They could go for programs but probably not additional marketing, because we pretty much do that and include all the events because we coordinate the main festival, and then that way we’re not asking for the same dollars for the same thing.”

Hand says they've received the grant in the past, and use it to advertise the Lacombe Culture and Harvest Festival.

She says they are a great resource to coordinate with, in order to determine the best and most efficient way for community organizations to work together to make the most out of these grants.

“Even to check back on our website for last year’s events for inspiration, like you can see all of the different events and things that were going on, and if they think they have something to add to that, that would be a great part of the festival to come in and meet with us.”

Both the Lacombe Culture and Harvest Festival, as well as Alberta Culture Days, take place the last weekend in September.

Applications can be downloaded from the Alberta Culture Days grant website and submitted via mail. The deadline to apply is April 4.

Grants are open to cultural organizations, non-profit groups, venues and facilities, school and community groups, First Nation and Métis settlements, and post-secondary institutions. Eligible community organizations can apply for one of the following:

  • up to $10,000 for three days of programming as a Feature Celebration Site
  • up to $5,000 for two days of programming as a Host Celebration Site
  • up to $1,000 for one day of programming as a Pop Up Celebration Site

Last year, 471 events took place in 56 communities giving thousands of Albertans access to events to celebrate our culture, diversity and community spirit.

Alberta Culture Days is part of the National Culture Days initiative, where millions of people across Canada participate in Culture Days activities and programs.

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