The Alberta government is now accepting grant applications for this year's celebration of Culture Days.

Leela Aheer, minister of Alberta Culture, Multiculturalism and Status of Women, made the announcement on Mar. 30.

Aheer stated that despite the global pandemic, communities throughout Alberta were able to adapt their 2020 Culture Days celebrations and still recognize and celebrate Alberta's widely diverse cultural talent.

"While COVID-19 made last year’s celebrations challenging, communities across the province rose to the challenge and delivered amazing events showcasing our homegrown talent," says Aheer.

Community organizations can apply for grants of up to $10,000 to help plan and host cultural events showcasing local talent.

It's also an opportunity to boost the impact and extend the reach of existing cultural programs within their communities.

Last year many Cochrane organizations hosted local COVID-19 compliant events for Culture Days. They included a wide range of visual, performing arts, film presentations, and even an interactive cultural scavenger hunt.

The province is encouraging prospective organizers to consider provincial health guidelines while planning 2021 Culture Days events. They say that the events should have all COVID-19 safety protocols in place.

Grant applications will be accepted until May 7, 2021. Organizations can apply here.

Culture Days events will take place throughout the month of September.