FESTIVAL HISTORY

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he Nanaimo Maple Sugar Festival is the sequel to a long tradition of Maple
Sugar Parties hosted by the Association francophone de Nanaimo. These Maple
Sugar Parties were traditionally one day events, attracting up to 800 participants.
In 2000, to celebrate the 20t anniversary of the Maple Sugar Party, a larger event
was held. This three day anniversary celebration attracted 3,000 visits and featured
an educational program for children, in addition to activities for the general public.

The success of the 20 anniversary celebration of the Maple Sugar Party served to
introduce the current Maple Sugar Festival concept. With a larger budget, more
sponsors, and more formal organization, this festival was planned for five days.
The Festival included a grand opening and exhibit on the history of Francophones
in BC, a paid admission gala concert at the Port Theatre, two days of educational
student programming, an exhibit at the art gallery and a full day Maple Sugar
party once again held at the Centennial Building in Beban Park. The Sugar Party
consisted of traditional food sampling, live music, and also pony and carriage
rides. Attendance increased by 30% for an estimated 4,000 visits.

The tradition continued in 2002 with the second edition of the five day festival.
The festival once again included a two day educational program for students,
paid concerts at smaller venues and an exhibit at the art gallery. The one day
Maple Sugar Party at Beban Park was expanded to two days and featured more
diverse cultural presentations including musicians, dancers and activities for
children. Attendance was once again increased by 25%, with an estimated total
of 5,000 visits.

The third edition of the Maple Sugar Festival was held in 2003 and attracted

a record estimate of 9,600 visits. This version introduced an ice sculpture
demonstration and exhibition at Harbourfront plaza in downtown Nanaimo.

The Maple Sugar Party at Beban Park was expanded toa Festival Village including
a Community tent, Maple Sugar Party tent and volunteer tent. There were a larger
number of performers including a children’s activity tent with a full roster of
children’s performers.

Naiaime Maple Sugar Festival 2004: A study of economic aid Hon-ccononite jinpacts on te Nanaiine area 6