Festivals and Events in Nova Scotia

Some of the best fun in Nova Scotia is found in our annual festivals and events - big, small and everything in-between. Each year more than 100 events spread all over the province celebrate everything from ceilidhs to quilts. Our Signature Events encompass the essence of Nova Scotia from the rhythms of our founding cultures beating in the production DRUM! to our the awe-inspiring world-renowned Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo.  There are always great things to do in Nova Scotia.

Live Music – A Nova Scotia Tradition

Maybe it starts with our music. Live musical entertainment is the lifeblood of Nova Scotia. Take a look at a few of the annual events that encompass every genre from alt-indie to traditional roots music. 

• Celtic Colours International Festival 
• TD Canada Trust Atlantic Jazz Festival 
• Halifax Pop Explosion
• Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival
• Stan Rogers Folk Festivals

Nova Scotian Artists & Artisans

Or perhaps indulge your passion for arts and crafts.  Whatever it is that nurtures the creative soul, Nova Scotia’s got it in spades. The historic seaport town of Lunenburg, for example, is a town of 2,500 people that’s home to 17 art galleries – that’s 1 gallery for every 147 people. Explore the calendar of events celebrating Nova Scotian artists and artisans: 

• Studio Rally Weekend
• Nova Scotia Designer Craft Council Show of Hands Craft Summer Craft Market
• Nova Scotia Designer Crafts Council Christmas Market
• Nova Scotia Folk Art Festival

Live Theatre Productions

If you enjoy a night at the theatre, you don't need to look far in Nova Scotia. There is a wide range of theatrical productions, dinner theatres and festivals to choose from. The hard part is making a decision about which one of the long list of shows and theatre festivals to keep you entertained on your Nova Scotia vacation: 

• Halifax International Busker Festival
• Halifax Atlantic Fringe Festival
• Chester Playhouse Summer Festival
• Liverpool International Theatre Festival
• Fortress of Louisbourg Dinner Theatre, Cape Breton Island