News Release

FREDERICTON (CNB) - New Brunswickers are being invited by Lt.-Gov. Herménégilde Chiasson to celebrate the province's 225th birthday at his official residence on New Brunswick Day, Monday, Aug. 3.

"It has become something of a tradition to mark New Brunswick Day in Fredericton's favourite backyard," said Chiasson. "And this year, the 225th anniversary of the founding of our province, I invite everyone to the grounds of Government House to share in the celebrations, with military displays from CFB Gagetown, an open-air concert, free birthday cake, and fireworks to end the party."

The day begins at noon on the east lawn with a static display from the Canadian Armed Forces. Light armoured vehicles, tanks, trucks and a helicopter will be available for viewing. Canadian Forces Day runs until 5 p.m., when the attention will turn to the back lawn for a free outdoor concert.

"I am pleased to feature singers and performers from all across New Brunswick," said Chiasson. "We are officially bilingual and proudly multicultural, and the day reflects our vibrancy and diversity."

The Muskrat Singers and Drummers from St. Mary's First Nation will begin the performance, followed by francophone folk singer Pascal Lejeune of Moncton.

Award-winning singer/songwriter David Miles of Fredericton will perform several of his hits, including one translated into French by Chiasson. The outlaw country of the Hardcore Troubadours and a performance by Fredericton's Filipino CommUNITY are also part of the schedule. At about 8 p.m., troops from CFB Gagetown will conduct a sunset ceremony on the west lawn. The funk of Grand Theft Bus will round out the entertainment, as the rock band plays under a fireworks show at dusk (weather permitting).

"As New Brunswick's 29th lieutenant-governor, I have come to know and cherish this province more than I realized was possible," said Chiasson. "New Brunswick Day is a chance to give back to all those who have made me feel so special during my term as the Queen's representative. I will never forget the generosity, kindness and good will I have felt in all corners of New Brunswick, from all people. So I hope many residents will accept my invitation to celebrate this place we share and call home."