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Bouctouche, NB: The long wait is over and Akadi Lumina, the first of its kind enchanted night walk in Atlantic Canada, created by the Moment Factory, has officially opened at le Pays de la Sagouine in Bouctouche, New Brunswick. This unique attraction will be a permanent fixture on the property and is set to bring visitors from around the world to experience what is being called a game changer for the province.

“Akadi Lumina tells the story of an evolving country," shared Camille Thériault, Chairman of the Pays de la Sagouine Board of Directors. “In addition to illuminating the forest and enchanting all visitors who experience the night walk, the artists who collaborated on Akadi Lumina highlight the essence of the Acadian people, with their joie de vivre, courage and resilience. It is the beginning of a new chapter.”

Beginning today when night falls, locals and visitors to the region will be invited to experience an enchanted 1.5 km night walk into the heart of the vibrant Acadian culture. The immersive experience will have visitors step into the home of cheerful people, shaped by more than 400 years of Maritime stories, social struggles, colourful banter, and unforgettable kitchen parties as they walk through eight zones that will take them on a journey unlike any other. All visitors should allow at least 60-75 minutes to truly immerse themselves in the experience.

Akadi Lumina was created by Montreal multimedia entertainment studio Moment Factory, known for global productions with renowned artists, brands, museums, theme parks and cities. This luminous experience in nature will be the 18th in the Lumina Night Walk series and was developed in collaboration with artists, musicians and storytellers from the Acadian community. It will celebrate Acadian culture with the use of light, sound, video projection and an original soundtrack that will bring
together local visitors and tourists alike.

“We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to create the first Lumina Night Walk in Atlantic Canada with the Bouctouche community,” shared Jonathan St-Onge, Executive Director – Signature Experiences, Moment Factory. “At Moment Factory, we always aim to inspire a sense of collective wonder and connection which is why we are honored to bring our multimedia storytelling expertise to this collaboration with Le Pays de la Sagouine. From the first conversation there has been a rising groundswell of support from the creative and cultural communities, as well as local partners surrounding; it was clear we had encountered a story with a strong will to be told.”

Provincial and federal governments funded the project. "With Akadi Lumina, Pays de la Sagouine is transforming its cultural and tourism offering and once again demonstrating its ability to renew and innovate," said the Honourable Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs. “Congratulations to the entire Pays team on the launch of this new attraction - it's the direct result of your efforts and dedication."

“The Government of Canada is committed to investing in infrastructure that supports a strong economy, creates jobs, and builds greener, more resilient communities,” shared The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities. “Today’s announcement is an example of our commitment to a dynamic and thriving Canada, now and in the future.”

“The Government of New Brunswick is proud to be a funding partner in this important project, which will provide a new tourism experience for locals and visitors vacationing in the region,” said the Honourable Réjean Savoie, Minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation. “When we invest in our communities and local attractions, we do so to showcase our unique culture and heritage, and to create memories and experiences that visitors will want to relive and share with others.”

UNI Financial Cooperation is a sponsor of Akadi Lumina. UNI was in attendance today to announce financial support for the next five years. "It's thanks to you, the members of the community, that this project will become a cornerstone of your region and our province. We can feel the enthusiasm, and that's why we're here today," said Robert Moreau, President and CEO of UNI.

Akadi Lumina’s 2023 season will run now through October 14th, with tours leaving nightly after sunset. Ticket prices are $29 for adults, $21 for youth, $14 for children, and children under 5 will receive free entry. All ticket prices are subject to service fees and tax.

To experience Akadi Lumina, purchase tickets online at www.akadilumina.ca.