MACTAQUAC (GNB) – Some of the province’s provincial parks and attractions are extending their season into the October long weekend.

The move is part of a renewed focus on tourism as an economic driver for the province and to meet increasing demand for what is known as the “shoulder season.” In the New Brunswick Economic Growth Plan, the provincial government identifies tourism as one of 12 growth opportunities.

“Tourism is a key driver of our economy and growing the fall shoulder season is part of a larger tourism growth strategy currently under development,” said Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister John Ames. “New Brunswick has a lot to offer year round and it is important to promote this to both visitors and residents.”

The growth in the cruise market in Saint John has created a demand for fall excursions throughout the Fundy region. September and October are high season for ports of call to New Brunswick. In addition, travel corporations from external markets have indicated a trend in increased bookings for the fall season.

Parks and attractions that will be open throughout the Oct. 9 long weekend are:

Provincial Parks

  • De la République
  • Sugarloaf
  • Anchorage
  • Mount Carleton
  • Mactaquac
  • Herring Cove
  • Parlee Beach Provincial Park and Campground
  • Murray Beach
  • New River Beach

Attractions

  • Village Historique Acadien
  • Hopewell Rocks
  • Ministers Island
  • New Brunswick Botanical Garden
  • Kings Landing
  • Cape Enrage
  • Pays de la Sagouine
  • Fundy Trail Parkway

The tourism industry employs more than 42,000 people in New Brunswick and contributes more than $520 million annually to the provincial GDP. For every public dollar invested in promoting New Brunswick as a tourism destination, there is an estimated return of $3.19.

The budget for the Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture increased by 17.6 percent this year. In addition, a capital investment of $75 million will be made over the next three years for upgrades to assets of cultural and historic significance.

More information on tourism is available online.

 

14-09-17