Friday, February 26, 2010, has been officially designated as Newfoundland and Labrador Day at the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games, to be held in Vancouver, British Columbia, from February 12-28, 2010.

The Honourable Danny Williams, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, said a day which focuses on Newfoundland and Labrador at the Olympic Games is part of the Contributing Province/ Territory Program (CPTP) that the province announced in July of this year.

The first phase of ticket sales for the 2010 Olympic Winter Games is currently taking place and will be ongoing until November 7, 2008. The Premier noted that people who plan to attend the games may wish to be in Vancouver during Newfoundland and Labrador Day, which will showcase the unique character and culture of the province.

"The Olympics are, without a doubt, the greatest sporting and cultural event in the world," said Premier Williams. "Newfoundland and Labrador Day will provide us with a rare opportunity to focus the attention of the entire world on our province and all it has to offer. We will share with the Olympic Village and its visitors our unique cultural heritage, our wealth of outstanding entertainers, and our legendary Newfoundland and Labrador hospitality."

Details of the day�s activities are in the process of being developed. Newfoundland and Labrador Day will, however, coincide with a comprehensive media marketing campaign and will include such activities as: a warm-up to the February 26, 2010 Olympic medal ceremonies in Vancouver�s BC Place Stadium; a networking event; arts performances, and concurrent celebratory activities in schools and communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, said the hospitality of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians will be centre stage during the Winter Olympic Games.

"Although our province is on the opposite end of the country from where the 2010 Olympic Winter Games are being held, our presence, particularly on Newfoundland and Labrador Day, will be strong and unique � representing not only our province and its people, but also the true Olympic spirit," said Minister Jackman.

As well as being Newfoundland and Labrador Day, February 26, 2010, is day 15 of the 2010 Olympic Winter Games and some of the sporting events taking place that day include: women�s curling, snowboarding, alpine skiing, and men�s hockey, bobsleighing and speed skating.

Those interested in purchasing tickets to the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games can visit: www.vancouver2010.com

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