NON-IMMEDIATE AND

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here are a number of non-immediate and non-economic impacts to the Festival

that must be considered. While the primary purpose of this study was to
document the economic impact of the Maple Sugar Festival, the survey data reveals
important non-economic impacts that will be briefly summarized.

PROMOTION OF FRANCOPLHONT.
LISTORY AND CULTURE

First and foremost, it must be understood that this Festival was initially created and
continues to exist in order to celebrate and promote the history and culture of the
Francophone population of Canada. It is a cultural event, with cultural objectives.
The positive economic impact of this event on the community is a fortunate by-
product of this event. While the organizers wish to understand and increase the
economic impact on the local community, this economic success is intrinsically
linked to the cultural objectives.

The participant survey clearly indicates that the Festival is achieving its objectives.
Participants stated that what they enjoyed most about the Festival is the
entertainment, culture and language. In addition, participants were highly satisfied
with the event, as four out of five participants indicated that they would return
next year. It would appear that the subsidies provided by different levels of
government are being well used to promote language and culture in BC.

INCREASED SENSE OF COMMUNITY

This type of event can mobilize a local population and help increase the sense of
community. A large number of volunteers, community organizations and local
businesses were involved in making this event a success. This has led to an
increased sense of community for the Francophone population of Nanaimo with
their involvement as organizers, volunteers and participants. It has also resulted in
the inclusion and recognition of the Francophone community as an active civic and

Naiaime Maple Sugar Festival 2004: A study of cconoinic and noti-ccononiie dinpacts on the Nanatino area 27