The new enhanced Summerside Highland Gathering will celebrate Prince Edward Island’s culture and bolster the College of Piping’s reputation as a host of major cultural tourism events, says Tourism and Culture Minister Robert Vessey.
“Celebrating our culture not only enriches the lives of Islanders, it helps strengthen our tourism industry and Island economy,” the minister said. “Our government is proud to support the new Summerside Highland Gathering to help position the College of Piping as a key cultural tourism destination for visitors to Prince Edward Island.”
The Prince Edward Island government, through the Department of Tourism and Culture, is investing $50,000 in this year’s festival. The event is held June 24-26 in Summerside.
The gathering features step dancing, piping, drumming and highland dancing competitions. The pipe band competition with 11 entries, and led by the internationally acclaimed group, Bagad Cap Caval of France, promises to be a major draw for pipe band lovers.
“On behalf of City Council, I would like to thank the Province of Prince Edward Island and ACOA for their contribution to the Highland Gathering and investment in our community,” said Summerside Mayor Basil Stewart. “We are so pleased to see the Highland Gathering return and kick off what promises to be a very busy tourism season in Summerside."
The College of Piping and Celtic Performing Arts of Canada was established in 1990 and plays a major role in providing a quality cultural tourism product and contributes significantly to the economic impact of tourism in Prince Edward Island.
“The investments made by ACOA, the Prince Edward Island government, through the Department of Tourism and Culture, the City of Summerside and our sponsors help us profile very important parts of our Island’s Celtic heritage,” said Karen Hatcher, Executive Director of the College of Piping. “This gathering is not just a spectacular event, it is a chance for all Islanders to connect with the Island community’s historic roots.”
The official opening ceremonies of the Summerside Highland Gathering will take place June 25 at 12:30 p.m. The minister, representatives from the college and a representative of the City of Summerside will participate.