“National Acadian Day is an opportunity for all Islanders to recognize the contribution our Acadian community has made to the economic, cultural and social fabric of our province,” said Premier Robert Ghiz. “In 2014, as we mark Prince Edward Island’s role in the founding of Canada, it is fitting that we take time to recognize the way Acadians paved the way for other Europeans settlers on our Island and for the development of the Island as a whole.”

The date for National Acadian Day (la Journée de la fête nationale des Acadiens et des Acadiennes) was chosen in 1881, during the first national Acadian convention, held in Memramcook, New Brunswick. National Acadian Day was officially recognized by the Parliament of Canada in 2003.

National Acadian Day is being celebrated with a full day of activities at the PEI 2014 Celebration Zone on Charlottetown’s waterfront as well as with community celebrations in Deblois, Wellington, Rustico, Summerside and at the Greenwich section of the PEI National Park.

A complete listing of regional events planned as well as transportation information to attend the activities in Charlottetown are available at www.15aoutipe.com (website in French only).