The Acadian Museum of PEI is opening its doors to celebrate National Acadian Day on Thursday, August 15, with a special program. The event will also mark the 60th anniversary of the museum's inauguration in 1964, in Miscouche.

A presentation on the history of the Acadian flag, which celebrates its 140th anniversary that day will be given by historian Georges Arsenault. It will take place at 11:00 a.m. in English and at 1:00 p.m. in French.

There will also be a singalong of Acadian songs at 1:30 pm. Accompanied on the piano by Edmond Gallant, the singalong will feature well-known songs such as Le Pêcheur acadien, Évangéline, Partons la mer est belle, Y a une étoile pour vous, Pêcher des coques à Egmont-Baie and a few folk songs.

This will also be an opportunity to tour the museums's exhibits, including the new temporary exhibit on handcrafts. The centerpiece of this display is a very large hooked rug made around 1950 by Béatrice Arsenault, of Saint-Raphaël. A number of crafters will be on hand to demonstrate their art.

To recall the history of the Island's Acadians, it will be possible to view the video “The Island Acadians: A Community and its History”. The 15-minute video will be presented on request.

And to celebrate the Acadian Museum’s 60th anniversary, there will of course be a birthday cake and other treats.

The Museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm. Admission will be free on this special day, but donations will be greatly appreciated.

The members of the Sister Antoinette DesRoches Historical Committee and the staff of the Acadian Museum look forward to welcoming you to celebrate National Acadian Day.