The Charles R. Bronfman Foundation Heritage Project was started in 1993 to increase awareness of Canadian heritage and to create an exciting learning environment for students of history. This CRB Heritage Project began the Heritage Fairs Program nationwide by introducing a series of Fairs in every province and territory. Management of this initiative was then taken over by the Historica Foundation whereby the program grew substantially throughout Canada. The first-ever Regional Fair was held in Winnipeg, Manitoba in 1993. From that small beginning, the Fairs Program has expanded to include students in every Canadian province and territory; the national manager of the program has written that its growth “surpassed all expectations.” In 2009, the Historica Foundation of Canada and The Dominion Institute merged to create the Historica-Dominion Institute.
Heritage Fairs:
- Creates an environment where students are excited to learn and share
- Provides recognition for student achievement.
- Celebrates cultural diversity and multiple perspectives.
- Reveals connections between the past and present.
- Inspires Canadians to celebrate their place in history.
