Travel Alberta and Big Valley Jamboree create contest to bring country music to small Alberta communities

Small Town Saturday Night mobilizes rural Alberta to showcase local tourism experiences

CALGARY, Jan. 4, 2012 /CNW/ - Travel Alberta has partnered with Big Valley Jamboree to celebrate its 20th anniversary and to support Alberta's rural communities by offering them a chance to win a day-long country music celebration on April 28, 2012 in their home town through a contest called "Small Town Saturday Night".

The grand prize includes a concert headlined by Canadian country music artist Dean Brody and a songwriters circle hosted by Alberta's own Aaron Lines. Big Valley's Master of Ceremonies Danny Hooper will MC for the event. In addition to the excitement of hosting this once-in-a-lifetime concert experience, the winning community can use the event as a fundraiser to support a local charity or municipal initiative of their choice.

"Alberta's vibrant rural communities are filled with authentic experiences that travellers are looking for," said Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation Minister Jack Hayden.  "We want to shine a spotlight on our small towns and give them an opportunity to showcase what makes them unique."

Entering is simple:

• Choose a place to host the event  (local bar, community hall)
• Connect with a group of passionate local champions
• Create a two-minute video showcasing what makes your community a great place to visit
• Upload your video to YouTube and submit your official entry form
• Invite your friends, neighbors and entire community to vote for your video online

Deadline for entries is March 2, 2012. A panel of experts will narrow down the eligible entries, choosing the top five submissions based on their depiction of community spirit and involvement, passion for local tourism attractions and events and creativity. The top five will be announced to the public on March 6, 2012 and this will be followed by a public vote for the grand-prize winner, ending on March 20, 2012.

The winning community will be announced on April 2, 2012 and the grand prize concert will take place on April 28, 2012.

More than 200 communities in Alberta qualify for the contest, which is open to communities of 20,000 people or less.

For complete rules and regulations and to download the official information package and entry form please visit www.bigvalleyjamboree.com/STSN

Media Contacts:
Noelle Aune
403-669-2947
[email protected]

Kelly Fornataro
403-852-8478