Canada is not just famous for its beautiful scenery. It is also a place filled with rich culture and fun festivals. In Atlantic Canada, festivals bring energy to towns and cities, showcasing music, food, and art. Whether you like live music or want to enjoy local seafood events, this region has some of the best celebrations in the country.
Blog
Festivals You Can't Miss
in Atlantic Canada
April 24th 2025
Join us as we spotlight the must-see festivals that promise a memorable experience in this lively part of Canada.
Key Highlights
- Atlantic Canada, encompasses the provinces of Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Newfoundloand and Labrador. These provinces offer a rich assortment of festivals celebrating music, culture, art, and food.
- Popular events include large-scale gatherings like the Charlottetown Festival. and niche community celebrations like the Tignish Irish Moss Festival.
- Perfect for all ages, these festivals showcase diverse traditions and performances.
- Many festivals occur during the summer months, ideal for warm-weather fun.
- From live music to seafood feasts, there’s something for everyone throughout Atlantic Canada.
- Plan ahead to experience the vibrant energy and unique charm of these events.
Arts and Culture
1. Antigonish Highland Games
July brings Scottish heritage back to Nova Scotia with the Antigonish Highland Games. Heavy event athletic competitions include the caber toss, Celidh social gatherings, evening concerts, a clan tent and other traditional Scottish events. The event takes place on Columbus Field in Antigonish.
2. Fundy Sea Shanty Festival
St Martins in New Brunswick pays homage to ships and sailors through stories, songs, dance and food each August with the Fundy Sea Shanty Festival. Try locally made clam chowder, attend the parade and keep a watch out for pirates at the rum tasting. It's a fun festival with something for all ages.
Children and Family
1. Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival
The Annapolis Valley in Nova Scotia lures visitors from near and far for their annual Apple Blossom Festival. The blossoms signal both the end of winter and the start of another growing season. Energize in spring fever with electrifying fireworks shows, a delightful children's parade, boombastic street parade, fresh food truck party, antique car show, tractor pull and a cozy movie night in the park! Older family members will both appreciate and ensure their attendance at the 'Ciders and Sliders' event and brave souls may choose to venture on the Apple Blossom Ghost Walk!
2. Tignish Irish Moss Festival
Escape to the beauty of rural Tignish, PEI and partake in joyous celebration at the Irish Moss Festival! Enjoy a variety of unique events including a legendary horse pull, yoga on the beach, sports tournaments, 'learn to fish' demos, quilt show, art workshop on the beach, youth dance and movie night, live music entertainment and a car rally! Enjoy fresh food and beverage vendors, markets and more! This festival is sure to have something for everyone!
Food, Wine and Beer
1. Iceberg Festival
Celebrating the coming of spring in the north and the annual arrival of icebergs, this foodie festival in St Anthony, Newfoundland, features music, entertainment, history, culture, great hospitality and of course - Icebergs. Delight in an interactive dinner with Vikings in the only sod covered restaurant in North America where you will join in fun feuds and fabulous filling foods; a light-hearted look at Viking life! Have a dance after a traditional fish fry, being 'Screeched In' and a seafood bake fresh from the sea!
2. Shediac Lobster Festival
Shediac, Nova Scotia, claiming to be the lobster capital of the world, preserves their reputation every year by way of a five day celebration paying homage to this succulent seafaring crustacean. Sit down to complete giant lobster dinners or a buttery feast with 1000 seafood lovers at a table 1000 feet long, which set a world record in 2014! Visitors will enjoy midway rides and games, live music, annual lobster eating contest, children’s shows and live entertainment including magic acts, comics and hypnotists! Enjoy lobster rolls, local fresh craft beer, cocktails and other delicious gourmet fare at this foodie festival favourite!
Music Festivals
1. Cavendish Music Festival
Join the incredibly popular party at Cavendish Beach to celebrate friends, family and country music while enjoying over 40 performances including top headliners across multiple stages! Be a part of interactive songwriter's circles, sampling sessions, food demonstrations and more! Regional food trucks and local restaurants serve up a delicious variety of festival food and frosty beverages! Experience PEI's most popular music festival in one of Canada's most beautiful locations.
2. Miramichi Rock and Roll Fest
This three-day festival transports this portside town and visitors back in time with such events as the Golden Oldie Car Show, classic rock concerts featuring known headliners, a town street dance, fireworks, food trucks and more! Wearing a poodle skirt or leather jacket to check out the musical performances in the big tent on the waterfront is highly recommended!
Wellness Festivals
1. Island Tides Yoga & Wellness Festival
Join a celebration blending movement while having fun in the Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island sun this summer! The best teachers, practitioners, experts, chefs, musicians, are offering a weekend sure to rejuvenate and inspire! Whether you want to start the day with movement & mimosas, get toned at a HIIT workout, try stand-up paddle boarding, or unwind with candlelit Yin class, you can choose your own pace and style! The festival is located throughout beautiful Charlottetown
2. Damnable Trail Festival
Plan to your visit to The Road to the Beaches region in Central Newfoundland this fall for the best hiking - plus, ring all 19 hidden bells along the way! The schedule of festival activities includes everything from scavenger hunts, challenging hikes and races to suit everyone no matter your experience level!
Tips for First-Time Festival-Goers
Arriving ready is important for any festival adventure. Wearing comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for the weather will help you enjoy your day. Knowing the festival map can help you find your way between exciting events, like live music or tasty food trucks. Talking to other people at the festival can make your experience even better and help create shared memories. It’s a good idea to set aside a little money for fun merchandise or local snacks to add to the joy. Don't forget to bring a portable phone charger so you can capture those special moments with your friends and family.
Can I take my RV to Atlantic Canada Festivals?
Yes. Festivals and RV vacations go hand in hand. Many festivals offer onsite camping in self contained vehicles while others have campgrounds close by. If you are planning to combine an RV vacation with one or more Atlantic Canada festivals, CanaDream has RV rentals in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Enquire now about renting an RV to attend festivals in Atlantic Canada.
Conclusion
Experiencing the many festivals in Atlantic Canada gives you more than just fun. It connects you to the local culture and community. These events celebrate unique traditions and bring families together for live performances. They create a feeling of belonging for people of all ages. The joy of life seen in the lively activities makes sure everyone leaves with great memories. Whether you enjoy bold flavours or take part in exciting summer festivities, the festivals in Atlantic Canada are a must-see.
Frequently Asked Questions about Festivals
Are there family-friendly festivals in Atlantic Canada?
Atlantic Canada has many family-friendly festivals. Events like the Shediac Lobster Festival and the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival have fun activities for everyone. There are games, crafts, and live entertainment. This makes sure that all family members have a good time and create lasting memories together.
How can I purchase tickets for these festivals?
To buy tickets for festivals in Atlantic Canada, go to their official websites or reliable ticket sites. Many of these festivals have early bird discounts. This means it’s a good idea to get your tickets early. You can also check local tourism offices for more information and possible package deals.
