Atlantic Canada threw down the Welcome Mat to visitors Saturday at the official opening of Atlantic Canada House at the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games.
“Atlantic Canada House is providing an inspiring and authentic setting to showcase the best of Atlantic Canada to the world,” said Premier Robert Ghiz. “The Province of Prince Edward Island is proud to be a part of this popular destination for Olympic visitors.”
On hand to officially open the pavilion were the Honorable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, the Honorable Darrell Dexter, Premier of Nova Scotia and the Honourable Robert Ghiz, Premier of Prince Edward Island who joined the cast of Atlantic Canada House’s Come On In! Songs and Stories of Atlantic Canada in a wooden spoons demonstration.
Throughout the opening weekend, large crowds enjoyed some of Atlantic Canada’s finest cuisine and the entertainment of high calibre artists such as the Confederation Centre Young Company, Amelia Curran, Grand Theft Bus, George Canyon, Tim Chaisson and Morning Fold, Ashley MacIsaac, Samantha Robichaud, Grass Mountain Hobos, The Stanfields and Sloan.
The pavilion has already been named the third most popular pavilion at the 2010 Olympics by Vancouver Magazine, after only Holland Heineken House and Sochi House (Russia).
Celebrations will continue over the next two weeks as Atlantic Canada House offers daily tastings of the region’s culinary delights and entertainment featuring some of Atlantic Canada’s best talent. Atlantic Canada House will also offer visitors a chance to experience Atlantic Canada’s industry and tourism first hand.
“Visitors to Atlantic Canada House can expect the warmth and welcoming atmosphere that Atlantic Canada is famous for,” said Premier Ghiz. “We are looking forward to greeting many more guests and delivering our world-class product to all.”