MTL 375 CEO calls events an Expo 67-level success

The organizers of Montreal’s 375^th anniversary celebrations are declaring the events a success.

Alain Gignac, CEO of the 375^th Celebration Society, said the festivities sparked a degree of citizen participation not seen since Expo 67, citing a study by auditing firm KPMG International. According to the study, the satisfaction rate of people who attended the events has reached 96 per cent.

A more comprehensive study on the economic effects of the celebrations will be released in March.

Gignac said preliminary data shows the festivities will show a surplus of $7 million on a budget of $125 million.

Among the events which drew the largest crowds was the two lightings of the Jacques Cartier Bridge and the parade of giant marionettes, which was seen by 620,000 people. 

Montreal’s 375^th celebrations conclude on Dec. 31 with several events in Old Montreal.