FLORENCEVILLE-BRISTOL (GNB) – New Brunswick Day celebrations are starting early this year in recognition of Canada 150. The province will host an early celebration in Florenceville-Bristol on Saturday, July 15.

“I am thrilled residents from Florenceville-Bristol and beyond will get to experience all that our region has to offer during this special year,” said Carleton-Victoria MLA Andrew Harvey. “My hope is that people from across our province and beyond will join us in celebrating New Brunswick.”

Harvey commented for Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister John Ames.

To celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation and build momentum for New Brunswick Day in Edmundston, the province will kick off a seven-week celebration in counties across New Brunswick on Canada Day. In the coming weeks, the government will unveil the initiatives it has planned to celebrate Canada 150 this summer.

“On the heels of celebrating National French Fry Day on July 13, there is no better place to be on July 15 than the Town of Florenceville-Bristol, the French Fry Capital of the World,” said Premier Brian Gallant. “It is a great place to highlight the impressive work ethic of New Brunswickers, as well as celebrate our traditional industries that are important to our economy, such as agriculture.”

Located along the St. John River Valley, the Town of Florenceville-Bristol allows residents and visitors to experience the region’s rich history and culture. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the town’s boardwalk, trails, parks and activities on the river. Florenceville-Bristol is known as the French Fry Capital of the World, and will celebrate National French Fry Day on July 13.

“Florenceville-Bristol is delighted to have been chosen as one of the regional locations to celebrate New Brunswick Day this year,” said Mayor Karl Curtis. “We are looking forward to working with the province in bringing this celebration to the upper river valley. I encourage everyone, up and down the valley, to come out and celebrate New Brunswick with us on July 15.”

New Brunswick Day has been celebrated since 1976. An official host community has been chosen since 1990.

07-04-17