It's probably the worst-kept secret in Squamish, says the community's chamber of commerce manager.
On Friday (Nov. 8), local MP John Weston arrived in Squamish, cheque in hand. The 12,500 federal dollars were earmarked for the second annual Squamish Culture and Heritage Festival scheduled for May of next year.
"Twenty-fourteen is going to be a very exciting year for Squamish," Elliot Moses said.
The year marks the centennial of the community receiving its name and the 50th anniversary of the community's incorporation. The heritage festival will be a key component of celebrations, Moses noted.
Next year's two-day event will run May 9 and 10 at Quest University. On the first day, Squamish students in Grades 5, 6 and 7 will display history-themed poster boards they pieced together over a two-month period, while also being able to view detailed exhibits and participating in hands-on activities.
"We had 300 students. Next year we're hoping to double that," said Bianca Peters, Squamish Historical Society president and festival organizer.
The following day the event is open to the public. People can view the students' work while taking in a number of speakers presenting a variety of topics pertinent to Squamish's history.
The money will go toward supplies to aid students with their displays, Peters said.
"We are going to be feeding this money right back into the community," she said, noting everything will be bought locally.
Young participants' projects will also be presented at the Sea to Sky Heritage Fair on the North Shore, Peters said. That opens the door to the possibility of students being selected to participate in the Provincial Heritage Fair.
"It's the first year that [Squamish] kids can go to the British Columbian-wide event," Peters said.
The society is looking for event sponsors and is on the hunt for volunteers. For more information visit www.squamishhistory.ca.
