Acadian Day celebrations for 'all Islanders'

Tuesday is National Acadian Day, and it's expected to be the largest celebration of Acadian Day on the Island to date.

"Because of the Canada 150 celebrations we decided that we would certainly make it a major event and make sure thatall Islanders have an opportunity to come and celebrate the Acadian culture and heritage," said Aubrey Cormier, the executive director ofLaSocieteSaint-Thomas-d'Aquin.

There will be events in all sixAcadian communities across the Island.

• 'A special feeling in your heart': 5 things to know about being Acadian

LaSocieteSaint-Thomas-d'Aquin, the group that representsAcadiansandfrancophoneson P.E.I., is also working with Parks Canada to bring two events toPort-La-JoyeFort Amherst.

On Sunday, Parks Canada is hosting a family fun day as a lead-up event for Tuesday's celebrations.

On National Acadian Day itself, there will be family activities at Victoria Row in Charlottetown from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., followed by a carnival show, concerts and fireworks at the National Historic Site.

As part of the event,LaSocieteSaint-Thomas-d'Aquinwill be presenting the Mi'kmaq Confederacy with thewigwam that was built at Port-La-JoyeFort Amherstthis summer.

"We will certainly have...an opportunity to emphasize the Acadian and Mi'kmaq relationships that have been ongoing for the last few hundred years," said Cormier.

'Special day for all Islanders'

After the activities at Victoria Row wrap up shuttle buses will be taking people from Charlottetown to Port-La-JoyeFort Amherst from 4 p.m. until the end of the event.

The carnival at the National Historic Site will run until 6 p.m. followed byperformances fromLennie Gallant andLes Hotesses d'Hilaireand finishing off with a fireworks display at 9 p.m.

Cormier wanted to ensure that not only Acadianscould enjoy the festivities as all of the events are bilingual.

"It's very important to recognize that it's not just a National Acadian holiday for Acadians. I think it's a special day for all Islanders."

• MORE P.E.I. NEWS |'A promise kept': Big Swim participant makes good on pledge to donors
• MORE P.E.I. NEWS |'A special feeling in your heart': 5 things to know about being Acadian