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.

Nova Scotia has never been more accessible, especially for British visitors. Starting summer 2024, the region sees two new seasonal transatlantic non-stop services resume. Additionally, a new flight route on WestJet adds more choice as well as a further choice via a connecting flight with Icelandair. WesJet will offer a seasonal direct flight to Nova Scotia's capital Halifax from London, Dublin and Edinburgh. The route will be served by the airline's Boeing 737 Max fleet. The London and Dublin service will operate four times a week from 29 April and 20 June 2024 respectively. The Edinburgh service – a new route not previously operated – will fly three times a week from 20 June 2024. May 2024 will also see the return of Icelandair to Halifax Stanfield International Airport. This is another option for UK travellers to get to Nova Scotia from the UK, with the added bonus of free Iceland stopovers en route. Icelandair's new three times a week seasonal service operates on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from May 31 through to October 14. It marks Icelandair's return to Halifax after a five-year absence. Flights are already on sale. Emma Cashmore, Tourism Nova Scotia's UK Account Director, of Axis Travel Marketing Ltd. said: "We are thrilled to see the return of these vital transatlantic connections as well as the introduction of a new route from Edinburgh.” This opens up the options for UK travellers to access the province and indeed all of Atlantic Canada". Nova Scotia has more than 13,000 km of coastline, diverse cultures and rich heritage It boasts six UNESCO designated sites and is noted for its scenic beaches.

  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.

 

 

Exclusive webinar with the winners of Race Across the World – Cathie and Tricia. We will hear first hand on their experience on the show and particularly their time in Nova Scotia. By registering you can also find out how you could be in with a chance to win a 4 night stay in Halifax with return flights for two from London.

  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]

  Nova Scotia has a long and rich tradition of growing grapes for wine that dates back to the 1600s, when the province was one of the first areas to cultivate grapes in North America. The climate and soil conditions in the province favour unique and distinctive grape varietals.   If your dream holiday includes road-tripping from one perfect boutique winery to another and chatting with passionate vintners about their art, we have got you covered – check out our latest vineyard stays to help you plan and get inspired:     Planter's Ridge Winery @ Port Williams   Newly renovated this century old farmhouse which was built in 1864 now contains three luxurious bedrooms, each with their own spa-like bathroom. The owners have paid homage to the old farmhouse by showcasing its original features while adding modern flourishes and embellishments. Artisanal breakfast is included in your stay. For more information click here.       Inn at the Winery at Grand Pre   Located in the Annapolis Valley next to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, 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. Now they are applying those same principles to their new onsite accommodations.  The Inn at the Winery, is the family's former farm  home and consists of  6 spacious rooms spread out amongst three levels.   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. For more information click here.       Yurts in the Vineyard at Authentic Seacoast Company @ Guysborough   Idyllically located along a stunning peninsula on Chedabucto Bay on the Eastern Shore, and nestled within the pockets of an oceanside vineyard, you’ll find 10 one-of-a-kind yurts calling your name for a glamping adventure!   These traditional Mongolian style yurts come fully-furnished and equipped with an abundance of amenities to provide a more-than-comfortable stay.   The property also includes a seaside sauna, ready for you to sweat off any stress and unwind.  For more information click here.

  Only a six-hour flight from the UK, Nova Scotia is filled to the brim with stunning natural beauty, diverse cultures, rich heritage, and friendly people.  About the size of Scotland and home to just a million people, Nova Scotia is very much a road trip destination, with spectacular seaside and inland driving routes.   If you love the coast, this five day itinerary takes you through regions known for high tides, warm waters and scenic views which are sure to get some inspiration going!   Day 1 |Burntcoat Head Park to Shubenacadie: Come and walk, play and explore on the ocean floor at low tide at Burntcoat Head Park, home of the world's highest recorded tides where you can take a guided tour or explore the dramatic site on your own. Added bonus: experience the one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure - Tidal Bore Rafting: As 100 billion tons of water rushes into the Bay of Fundy, there is only so much space for it to travel and therefore the great tides actually reverse the flow of the river that would typically flow into the Bay. Nowhere else in the world can you find this kind of experience!   Day 2 | Advocate Harbour: Cape d’Or Lighthouse in the Cape d'Or Coastal Park is a great spot to witness the Bay of Fundy’s impressive tidal rips from the towering cliffs of this park. Here you can also enjoy a meal next to a lighthouse at the onsite restaurant known for their seafood and breathtaking views. For a unique overnight experience, visit the Lightkeepers Kitchen & Guest House, located just a few steps from the Cape d'Or Lighthouse in the converted Lightkeeper's residence. Outdoors enthusiast? explore Cape Chignecto Provincial Park, Nova Scotia’s largest provincial park featuring back-country and day-use trails, magnificent Bay of Fundy beaches, and camping; discover the Bay of Fundy by taking a sea kayaking tour with NovaShores Adventures where you will see impressive views of Cape Chignecto’s sea cliffs and famous “Three Sisters” rock formation; dine in one of Nova Scotia’s highest rated restaurants, Wild Caraway Restaurant & Café, offering an authentic taste of local Nova Scotia dining through the use of local and in season ingredients.   Day 3 | Wallace and Tatamagouche: Spend a day at the beautiful Fox Harb’r Resort, one of only five 5-star resorts in Canada, situated on the stunning Northumberland Shore where you can try out one of the many activities such as horseback riding, volleyball, or sea kayaking.  Explore the town of Tatamagouche and get a taste for the local craft beer, wine and cidery scene with a stop at Tatamagouche Brewing Co. or travel a few minutes north of Tatamagouche to Malagash to visit the award-winning Jost Vineyards or Malagash Cidery at Vista Bella Farm.   Day 4 | Liscomb: Make your way to Liscomb Mills where you can spend the night at Liscombe Lodge, go for a hike along a portion of the 9 km of hiking trails or simply relax and enjoy the solitude of the area overlooking the Liscomb River. Fancy taking a boat tour along the Liscomb River? A relaxing pontoon boat ride along the Liscomb River takes you into the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean with the Marina Supervisor and Captain. Top up the experience with a visit to the resort’s restaurant for a true maritime meal with a view of the river and the rugged Eastern Shore landscape.   Day 5 | Spry Bay to Lawrencetown: Hike the beautiful coastal trail system at Taylor Head Provincial Park, with pristine white sand beaches, rugged headlands, and sweeping views of the ocean and undeveloped coastline. Stop for lunch to refuel at the Henley House Pub & Restaurant or Sober Island Brewing Company before continuing along the Eastern Shore. Head to Lawrencetown and check-in at East Coast Surf School at Lawrencetown Beach Provincial Park to learn to ride the waves. If surfing isn’t your thing check out Lawrencetown Beach, Clam Harbour, Martinique, Rainbow Haven or one of the other beautiful beaches along the Eastern Shore.