Congres Mondial Acadien leaves lasting legacy in southwest N.S.

An unforgettable eight days in southwest Nova Scotia.

The Congres Mondial Acadien was held in Yarmouth, Argyle and Clare.

It began with an opening ceremony at Universite Sainte-Anne on August 10, and wrapped up Sunday with a closing event in Wedgeport.

Concerts, Tintamarre parades, trade shows, family reunions and more were held.

The Congres had something for everyone, with visitors from around the world, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who visited the Mariners Centre trade show, marched in the Tintamarre on Main Street and gave a speech at the National Acadian Day concert at the Yarmouth Airport.

Communications director Trevor Murphy says around 50 staff and hundreds of volunteers helped out.

“Some incredible moments, lots of new friends as well as we rediscover our Acadian roots. It’s one of those events that will leave a lasting impact for a long time,” said Murphy.

While he says no official numbers are in, it’s likely over 30,000 people took part.

Well over 5,000 attended the airport concert.

During an economic forum in Clare, it was estimated the financial impact for southwest Nova Scotia will be over $20 million.

Murphy says the highlight was sharing Acadian culture.

“Seeing people, especially the younger generation experiencing that awakening for the first time, that was something I’ll never forget.”

Governor General Mary Simon, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and dignitaries from France and Louisiana were also in town for the festivities.

The Congres is held every five years, our region last hosted it 20 years ago.