Fredericton wins bid to host 2017 Acadian games

Fredericton has won its bid to host the Jeux de l'Acadie in June 2017, an event that is expected to draw more than 3,000 young athletes and spectators to the provincial capital.

The Acadian games, which are a mix of sporting and cultural activities, areheld every year for Acadian and francophone youth throughout Atlantic Canada.

Fredericton Coun. Mike O'Brien said on Monday the Acadiangames will be a major boost for the city's economy.

It'll generate at least $1.1 million in economic activity, fill1,000 hotel beds, that's people going to restaurants, getting cabs, buying goods and services, visiting our shops, he said.

Jean-LucBenoit, the president of theCentreCommunautaireSainte-Anne, thanked the city council for its "unfailing support" for the francophone community in the region.

"Having the Jeux de lAcadie in Fredericton again after 17 years is a unique opportunity to bring all residents of the provincial capital region together," Benoit said in a statement.

"For the young participants, it is an unforgettable life experience and an occasion that creates a feeling of collective pride and belonging to the francophone community."

Three New Brunswick cities were in the running to host the games: Fredericton, Dalhousie and Miramichi.

Bathurst held the 2014 games and the 2015 games will be held in Charlottetown.