Canada's largest annual country music event is coming to Vancouver in 2009, announced Tourism, Sport and the Arts Minister Stan Hagen.

The announcement of Vancouver's winning bid for the Canadian Country Music Association's 2009 Country Music Week and the Canadian Country Music Awards took place at Cardero's Restaurant. Following the announcement, the audience were treated to live performances by B.C.'s award-winning country artists Aaron Pritchett and Lisa Brokop.

"Winning the bid to host the 2009 Canadian Country Music Awards further solidifies B.C.'s growing reputation as the ideal location for holding national and international events," said Hagen. "We look forward to welcoming key players from the international music industry while spotlighting some of the extraordinary talent emerging right here in B.C."

The 2009 Canadian Country Music Awards will feature live performances by some of Canada's most popular country artists. In addition to hosting the awards, Vancouver will be home to Country Music Week, scheduled to take place September 11-14, 2009. Activities for this event include showcase opportunities for newcomers, educational seminars and an all-day FanFest that is a chance for Canada's artists to connect with fans.

"It will be an exciting time for all British Columbians," said Hagen. "Vancouver will be flooded with activities and events for fans, country stars and music industry representatives - with the pinnacle of the celebrations being the 2009 Canadian Country Music Awards."

"We are pleased that the Canadian Country Music Awards is coming to Vancouver in 2009," said Heather Ostertag, chair of Canadian Country Music Association. "We are confident that Vancouver will be the perfect place to celebrate and welcome Canada's finest country music stars."

The Canadian Country Music Association's Country Music Week and Canadian Country Music Awards are funded by a combination of box office, government (municipal and provincial), public, corporate, artistic and individual donor and sponsor support. The government of B.C. is contributing $300,000 to support the costs of holding the events in Vancouver.

For more details on the Canadian Country Music Association, visit www.ccma.org.