From lobster to Acadian joie-de-vivre; wine to apples; music to pumpkins and everything else in between, Nova Scotia is home to an myriad of celebrations throughout the year. Festivals are a great way to mingle with the locals and celebrate a few of the things that make Nova Scotia so unique. Here are our top picks:   Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival | May 28 - June 2, 2025: from its creation in 1933 as a tribute to the blossoms of the many apple orchards, traditions and agricultural heritage of the Annapolis Valley, the Festival has grown to be a yearly homecoming for families and friends.   Eastern Shore Cold Waters Seafood Festival | 7 – 8 June, 2025: Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore culture is anchored in the coves, harbours, and inlets that form the wild shores of this region. These cold, clear waters yield some of the best seafood in the province, and that coastal connection is celebrated in a big way. From contemporary dishes, to simple steamed shellfish, or tried and true traditional favourites, there’s something for everyone.   Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo | June 27 - July 1, 2025: a celebration of harmony, remembrance, and resilience through music, dance, and cultural traditions. Since its inception in 1979, this international event honours those who paved the way for peace and freedom in flourish.   Pictou Lobster Carnival | 4 – 6 July, 2025: this year will see the Pictou Lobster Carnival celebrating 90 years! Enjoy succulent seafood, live music featuring headliner bands, carnival fair rides, crate run (a new favourite), boat races, lobster banding competition, lobster trap hauling contest, a street parade, and of course, delicious lobster suppers.   Antigonish Highland Games | 6 – 13 July, 2025: a weekend full of cultural, athletic and musical experiences sponsored by the Antigonish Highland Society. Founded in 1861, about 75 years after the Gaels first began arriving on nearby shores, the Society has kept alive numerous Scottish traditions and events that help to define the character of Antigonish town and county.   TD Halifax Jazz Festival | 15 – 20 July, 2025: returning for their 39th annual event, TD Halifax is the oldest jazz festival and largest summer festival in Atlantic Canada. Halifax Jazz Festival brings international artists to the maritimes and platforms local musicians.   Festival acadien de Clare | July 26 - August 15, 2025: the oldest Acadian festival in the world celebrates Acadian heritage gathering thousands of people from all over the world along the shores of the Bay of Fundy in Saint Mary’s Bay. A packed programme includes activities for all ages, like the lumberjack competition, a street parade, bazaar and so much more! Concerts also take place, with music genres varying from Acadian, Cajun and even Bluegrass. The festival wraps up by celebrating National Acadian Day on August 15th, a vibrant cultural celebration for the Acadian people throughout Canada and particularly in Nova Scotia. It commemorates the rich heritage and history of Acadian communities, descendants of French settlers who first settled in the area in the 17th century.   Halifax Busker Festival | July 30 - August 4: running for six days over Nova Scotia’s Natal Day long weekend (late July/early August), with hundreds of shows, Buskers is Nova Scotia’s favourite summer festival and can’t be missed on a visit to Halifax. Founded in 1986, the Busker Festival scours the globe for the best street performers and musicians to perform at the annual event along Halifax’s historic waterfront and boardwalk.   Digby Scallop Days | 7 – 10 August: Digby Scallop Days is a celebration that takes place annually during the second weekend of August to celebrate Nova Scotia’s heritage in the scallop fishing industry and to savour in the culinary delight of the famous Digby Scallop.  The festival is celebrated over a four day period and reflects on the area’s local scallops and the fishermen that harvest them. Scallops from Digby, the scallop capital of the world, are known worldwide for their unique and succulent taste and there is no better time or place to savour their unique and succulent taste.   Celtic Colours International Festival | 10 – 18 October: A unique celebration of Cape Breton Island’s living traditional culture. For nine days in October discover hundreds of events and activities taking place in communities around the Island. Since its introduction in 1997, Celtic Colours has grown to become one of Canada’s premiere musical events and a cultural highlight in Nova Scotia. Showcasing the musical culture of Cape Breton it gathers tens of thousands of visitors from more than two dozen countries.   Nova Scotia Lobster Crawl Festival | February 1-28, 2026:  Nova Scotia isn’t just a summer destination.  Every February – for the entire month – the province throws a fantastically tasty event, the Nova Scotia Lobster Crawl Festival. February just happens to be the peak of the lobster fishing season in Southwest Nova Scotia, so from Barrington (the Lobster Capital of Canada) to Peggy’s Cove and every port in between, you can expect all kinds of celebrations in salute to that the province’s favourite crustacean.

  Nova Scotia is home to some of the most authentic, exclusive and extraordinary coastal experiences in North America.   The gateway to Atlantic Canada has plenty for you to discover and we would like to share with you some of the latest highlights we are all excited about. And remember…. over 13,000 km of coastline await you in Nova Scotia! To explore where to go and what to do in Nova Scotia, visit NovaScotia.com  

NEW Culinary experience: Tastes of Lunenburg 

      Treat your palate to this unforgettable multi-stop adventure featuring the spectacular tastes of Old Town Lunenburg. Drawing flavours from more than 270 years as a seagoing town with deep German roots, this three-hour gastronomical delight is sure to satisfy. Walk with local guides who will take you through the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering up cultural and historical anecdotes as you immerse yourself in this delectable tour.  

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9 Don’t Miss Outdoor Adventures in Cape Breton

    For the outdoor enthusiast, Cape Breton Island is a must-visit spot when visiting Nova Scotia. From kayaking, and tubing to canoeing (and more!) your clients will surely discover the perfect afternoon or multi-day escape. Here are 9 outdoor adventures that simply cannot be missed!  

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NEW Experience: Evangeline, Expulsions, Enchantment & Elixirs

      Learn about Acadian and Mi’kmaw culture through plant medicine and food remedies on this guided adventure. With herbalist Angie Oriana Jenkins, explore four historic sites in the Grand Pré-region including the Landscape of Grand Pré UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Historic Site, the Deportation Site, the Guzzle, and finish at the Horton Ridge Malt House.  

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    Everyone needs a little inspiration. Luckily, we’ve got lots of it. Check out some of the top experiences and attractions that are sure to get you itching to plan your trip.

  Travel enthusiast Graham McKenzie engages in a lively conversation with Geordie Mott, the visionary owner of Picture Perfect Tours based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Geordie's unique venture seamlessly blends his expertise in photography and art history with the allure of tourism. The heart of their discussion revolves around the enchanting Sable Island, a remote and mystical location situated in the North Atlantic. Geordie vividly describes the island's history, particularly its iconic population of wild horses tracing back to the 1760s. As Geordie unfolds the details of Picture Perfect Tours, viewers are treated to a fascinating glimpse into the immersive and visually stunning experiences offered by the company, making Sable Island an unparalleled destination for photography enthusiasts.  

  Nova Scotia is home to some of the most authentic, exclusive and extraordinary coastal experiences in North America.   The gateway to Atlantic Canada has plenty for you to discover and we would like to share with you some of the latest highlights we are all excited about. And remember…. over 13,000 km of coastline await you in Nova Scotia! To explore where to go and what to do in Nova Scotia, visit NovaScotia.com  

Opening Soon: Moxy Hotel

  The first new-build Moxy hotel in Canada, part of Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio is due to open next month. The stylish and playful 160-room hotel is located at the heart of the downtown area where guests can make memories over handcrafted drinks, small plates and vibrant music and have easy access to several iconic attractions and must-do tours.  

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Icelandair returns to Halifax!

    The return of Icelandair to Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) in May 2024 opens up another exciting way to access the province of Nova Scotia from the UK, with the added bonus of free Iceland stopovers en route for durations of up to seven days.   Icelandair’s new thrice-weekly seasonal service, which will operate on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from May 31 through to October 14, marks the welcome return of the carrier to Halifax – the chief international gateway to the Atlantic Canada region – after a five-year absence.   Flights are already on sale for the service, which will be served by the carrier’s Boeing 737MAX8 aircraft, and the airline was on hand at this year’s World Travel Market in London (November 6-8) to get the message out to the international travel trade.  

Grab your spoon, hit the trail and eat your way around Nova Scotia!

    What better way to taste Nova Scotia than to enjoy a bowl of seafood chowder? We take the finest seafood from our cold, clean waters and pair it with produce from our lush fertile valleys. Our chowders are warm and comforting, much like the character of our people. Every bowl tells the story of who we are and where we’re from!  

Discover Nova Scotia’s Coastal Museums

  With more than 13,000 km of coastline surrounding the province, it’s no surprise Nova Scotia’s rich heritage is heavily influenced by the sea. From stories of the fishing industry to insights into historic shipbuilding and even geology, these five museums are the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Nova Scotia’s coastal history.     Located in the heart of the historic Halifax waterfront, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic features an abundance of exhibits focused on Nova Scotia’s strong connection to the sea. From the popular Titanic exhibit to the displays on the Halifax Explosion, the museum overflows with takes of history.     Be sure to check out the the ongoing exhibit Ta’n me’j Tel-keknuo’ltiek: How Unique We Still Are, which shares experiences of how Mi’kmaq people remain connected to the waters of Mi’kma’ki.   Nova Scotia is home to a rich Acadian culture and Le Village Historique Acadien de la Nouvelle-Écosse is a perfect opportunity to immerse in this vibrant history. Explore the grounds of this immense 17-acre site whilst visiting a variety of historic buildings.     Still inhabited by descendants of the village’s founder, this museum showcases the industrious and joyful spirit of the Acadian people, while celebrating a language and culture that has thrived for more than 250 years.  

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  Only a six-hour flight from the UK, Nova Scotia is filled to the brim with stunning natural beauty, diverse cultures, rich heritage, and warm, friendly people.  This Atlantic Canada province is home to three national parks. From helping to share Mi'kmaw heritage to showcasing and carrying out modern day conservation efforts, Nova Scotia’s national parks offer cultural experiences, exciting outdoor adventure and special places to stay. Here is why they are a bucket list-worthy destination:   Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site: Discover the historic waterways, wooded multi-use trails, incredible night sky, and unique camping accommodations at Nova Scotia’s only inland national park. Explore Mi'kmaw petroglyphs and connect with Mi'kmaw culture, experience some of the darkest (and most starry) night skies in North America. You can also explore the park by renting a bicycle or canoe onsite to explore trails and lakes, and spend the night in a yurt, rustic cabin, oTENTik, or tear-drop Ôasis “duplex”, several feet in the air.   Kejimkujik National Park Seaside: Located along the rugged Atlantic coast and a little over one hour from the inland Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, visitors here will be rewarded with incredible coastal views and wide white sand beaches after a 2.8 kilometre (one way) hike on Harbour Rocks Trail. Along the way, check out the viewing platform with views of St. Catherine’s River Beach and keep an eye out for local wildlife and birds. Pick up a Perfect Picnic in nearby Liverpool before hitting the trail and enjoy it later at the beach. Be sure to snap a photo sitting on the iconic Parks Canada red chairs.     Cape Breton Highlands National Park: An undisputed “must do” when visiting Nova Scotia is exploring the Cabot Trail. The trail winds its way through Cape Breton Highlands National Park making it easy to see the whole park. Featuring 26 hiking trails, 12 breathtaking look-offs, 8 campgrounds, and 6 beaches, this national park is the ideal destination for the outdoor enthusiast. Whether you prefer roughing it in the back country, taking in the incredible fall colours on a hike, or picking up a Perfect Picnic to enjoy during a beach day, a visit to Cape Breton Highlands National Park is likely to be a highlight of your trip to Nova Scotia.

  Nova Scotia is home to some of the most authentic, exclusive and extraordinary coastal experiences in North America.   The gateway to Atlantic Canada has plenty for you to discover this fall and we would like to share with you some of the latest highlights we are all excited about.   We look forward to fully enjoying this upcoming season. And remember…. over 13,000 km of coastline await you in Nova Scotia! To explore where to go and what to do in Nova Scotia, visit NovaScotia.com  

The Celtic Colours International Festival: A unique celebration of Cape Breton Island’s living traditional culture: 6 – 14 October 2023

    Since its introduction in 1997, Celtic Colours has grown to become one of Canada’s premiere musical events and a cultural highlight in Nova Scotia showcasing the musical culture of Cape Breton to tens of thousands of visitors from more than two dozen countries.   At one of the many concerts, you’ll find some of the world’s finest musicians sharing the stage with Cape Breton’s best musicians, singers, dancers, and story-tellers in venues that range from community halls and churches to modern schools and theatres.  

Discover hundreds of events & activities taking place in communities around Cape Breton!

 

October Adventures in Nova Scotia

    October is a special time of the year in Nova Scotia. From the colourful changing leaves to the bountiful harvests, it's the perfect time to get out and explore as sweater weather sets in.   Here are our top recommendations for things to see & do!      

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Calling History Lovers

  If you love history, why not plan a visit to Georges Island National Historic Site in the heart of the Halifax Harbour during your next Nova Scotia trip. Take a guided tour of the tunnels, and be sure to order a Perfect Picnic to enjoy during your visit. Have you ever explored the island?   The site is open 5 days/week until Sept. 4 (Labour Day) and then returns to weekends only until October 8th (final day to visit for this season).    

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  Michelle Bourgeoise talks to Graham Mckenzie about the diverse, authetic and vibrant nature of the City.   [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CHqFDnUx4bY[/embed]

  Whether you’re an adventurer, a relaxer, or a get-up-and-goer, there are endless things to do as you explore Nova Scotia’s 8,200 miles of coastline. While it might be Canada’s second smallest province, it packs a punch with brilliant water adventures - only a 6 ½ hour flight from the UK! Perfect for kayaking, canoeing, swimming, surfing, sailing and much more, these are some of our favourite activities:   Tidal Bore Rafting: Feel the rush of riding waves that can be up to 4 metres (13 feet) high in a Zodiac boat as the power of the world’s highest tides in the Bay of Fundy turn the Shubenacadie River into a water roller coaster only found in Nova Scotia. Expert guides take you cascading down rapids as the incoming ocean reverses the flow of the river. This fun-filled voyage isn’t complete without mud sliding, too!   Kayaking: From the dramatic cliffs, arches and towering pinnacles of Northern Cape Breton and Cape Chignecto to the sheltered waterways and isolated white sand beaches of Prospect and Tangier, for many, this coast is best seen from the water. History buffs will enjoy paddling along historic waterfronts, while cultural enthusiasts will love chatting with local fishermen or traversing the waterways of the Mi’kmaq.   Whale watching: Summer and fall are the best times to go whale watching in Nova Scotia. Find yourself aboard a whale watching tour with lively commentary and local tales as you watch for any of the 12 species of whales, including the rare North American right whale - that visit the province each year. This activity is best done in Cape Breton and the Bay of Fundy.   Surfing: Nova Scotia is known for cold water surfing, but we also encourage you to try it in the summer when waters are a bit warmer! Don't worry if you've never tried it before, check out a surfing lesson or rent the equipment if you can't bring your own.  Check out two popular surf spots at Lawrencetown Beach Provincial Park which offers up world-class surf conditions and Martinique Beach Provincial Park, complete with a 5km crescent white sand beach. Stay in the area for a beachside getaway among the sand dunes of Lawrencetown Beach! Enjoy surfing, cycling, and beach exploring, then return to your private suite to relax in the hot tub and cozy up beside the fireplace at 3 Moonlight Beach Suites.   Learn to sail on Halifax Harbour: J Farwell Sailing Tours have added a 50’ bali 4.8 Catamaran to their fleet, known as “The Reverie”. Passengers have the opportunity to be part of the hands-on sailing experience which includes gybing, tacking, taking a turn at the helm, raising sails, winching in the sails, and learning about the basics of sailing.  

  Nova Scotia is home to some of the most authentic, exclusive and extraordinary coastal experiences in North America. As the warmer weather approaches, we would like to share with you some of the latest highlights we are all excited about. We look forward to fully enjoying this upcoming summer. And remember…. over 13,000 km of coastline await you in Nova Scotia!   To explore where to go and what to do in the province, visit NovaScotia.com  

A Light Like no Other!

  Take a guided tour of the lighthouse tower, learn some interesting facts about Cape Forchu and enjoy spectacular views. Explore the rugged landscape and take in the breathtaking vista. Visit the lightkeeper’s residence, a provincial heritage property complete with museum artifacts. Fancy a picnic? Discover the Leif Erikson Park with walking paths, picnic sites and benches, providing front-row seats for amazing sunsets! - You can also meet “Foggy” the 50’ ft whale skeleton which is on display also in the park. Discover Cape Forchu Lighthouse.    A unique “apple core” lighthouse. Did you know Cape Forchu is the only one in Nova Scotia that can be climbed and has an intact lightkeeper’s dwelling open to the public?  

At the heart of Halifax’s burgeoning culinary scene

    Since opening of the Queen’s Marque District, home to the new MUIR Hotel, Halifax's waterfront has become the centre of some incredible culinary hot spots, featuring dining experiences from around the world.   New additions to the creative collection of dining experiences include:  

• Salt + Ash:  A warm, relaxed and feel-good retreat where friends come to gather over crackling fire, delicious food, and cold beer, Salt + Ash represents a new wave of Nova Scotia dining. The entire menu is cooked over a wood fire – from traditional Nova Scotian seafood to pizzas and more.
• Swanky Burger:  Sink your teeth into an old-school classic burger – simply prepared and gloriously satisfying!
• Coming soon |Toridori:  From Vietnam to Japan to Malaysia, Toridori is a love affair with Asia’s expansive repertoire of noodle creations.

     

Explore Halifax Hub & Spoke 5-day Itinerary

 

Taste, Dine & Stay at Nova Scotia's oldest farm winery

  Located in the heart of Nova Scotia Wine Country, Domaine de Grand Pré is Atlantic Canada’s oldest Farm Winery, owned and operated by the Stutz Family since 1994. The Swiss born family quickly made its mark displaying a European sensibility for quality and passion for wine. The result is an array of award-winning vintages appreciated across Canada and around the world!   Applying those same principles is their on-site development: The Inn at the Winery, in the family's former farmhouse. Offering an inviting and welcoming atmosphere in a stunning and unique winery setting, built in 1828, known as the James Cane House, the accommodation comprises of 6 spacious rooms spread out amongst the 3-level home. The ground level is home to a Chef's Table Dining Experience for 8-10 guests where you can watch your 5 or 7 course, wine-paired meal being prepared.      

Explore Grand Pré Winery

    There’s no place on earth where you will get fresher lobster! From our ocean to your plate – crack open your sense of adventure on the Nova Scotia Lobster Trail.