 On December 1, 1998, after Quebec's second unsuccessful bid to host the Winter Olympics (for the 2002 and 2010 Games), the mayor of Quebec City, Jean-Paul L'Allier, suggested turning the city's efforts towards organizing a celebration in 2008 for the 400th anniversary of the founding of Quebec City.The Société du 400e anniversaire de Québec (SAAQ) was a non-profit organization responsible for planning the festivities and events during the 400th anniversary of the founding of Quebec City.Their mission included organizing and promoting events and activities, working with other groups and encouraging contributions to and raising funds for the project.