From renowned musical acts to world-class seafood, Atlantic Canada knows how to showcase its local talent. Visitors that time a stay around a festival will experience its unique culture, welcoming locals and breathtaking scenery.
New Brunswick
Foodies will be in their element at the nine-day Shediac Lobster Festival, scheduled from July 5-13. Where better to enjoy some of the freshest seafood than the Lobster Capital of the World? New Brunswick’s longest running festival features music concerts, dance parties, a 600-guest outdoor lobster dinner, lobster eating contests and more. Visitors can pose with a larger-than-life lobster sculpture, learn all about the crustaceans at Homarus Centre and jump on a lobster-themed boat excursion with Shediac Bay Cruises. shediaclobsterfestival.ca
Newfoundland and Labrador
The wholesome Trails, Tales, and Tunes festival is a coming together of the culture and traditions that set Newfoundland and Labrador apart. Set in the picturesque town of Norris Point, Gros Morne National Park, festival-goers will be treated to musical jigs, storytelling, culinary events and daily walks – an all-round sensory experience. This year the festival will span May 16-25, timed to celebrate the first signs of spring and encourage visitors to embrace the wonderfully wild surroundings. trailstalestunes.ca
Nova Scotia
The sounds of Nova Scotia ring loud and proud for nine days at the Celtic Colours International Music Festival, with up to eight concerts a day. A celebration of Cape Breton Island’s living traditional culture, the festival features Gaelic singing, Cape Breton fiddling, local dance traditions and world-class bagpiping. This year’s festival will be held from October 10-18, with visitors able to pair performances with viewing the spectacular fall colours across the Cabot Trail. celtic-colours.com
Prince Edward Island
The two-day Sommo Festival attracts world-class acts and a lively crowd looking to enjoy great music, fresh food and the charming beachside town of Cavendish. Previous headline acts include Mumford & Sons and Vance Joy. This year’s festival, taking place from September 13-14, will again feature a fantastic line-up of music, celebrity chefs putting on live demonstrations, and pop-up cocktail masterclasses. sommofest.com
