Nova Scotia events are a choice way to explore the province's distinct culture and get a taste of east coast celebrations at their finest. Halifax Nova Scotia events top the charts within the tourism sector, exhibiting live Celtic music, special wine events, and plenty of traditional celebrations. Experiencing a Nova Scotia festival is a highlight during tours and often illustrates rich history and a host of exciting east coast customs. If travel itineraries are flexible, planning around one of the Nova Scotia Music festivals, seafood festivals, or wine events is a great way to incorporate a memorable experience into a getaway.

There are more than 550 Nova Scotia events and festivals commemorating outdoor activities, dancing, folk music, theater, and food each year. One of the top Halifax Nova Scotia events, and one of the longest running events observed in the province, is Hungry Planet, an exhibition hosted by renowned Pier 21 and supported by the Montreal Science Center. Visitors get a close look at just how integral food is throughout Canada's east coast. The focus is food, and eating is a top activity, but the greater responsibility of this event is educating the public on issues around the globe such as drought, poverty, famine, nutrition, and globalization. Eating and farming customs of more than 25 distinct families from more than 20 countries are observed through a photographic show. This Nova Scotia festival opens annually in May and closes in September.

In August, the Atlantic Fringe Festival takes the front line as one of the best Nova Scotia events to attend in Halifax. Theater buffs and artists alike love the originality showcased at this theater-based festival running for almost two decades. It hits on theater outside of the mainstream, featuring special shows, presentations, and numerous plays that break new ground each year. Part and parcel is the Atlantic Film Festival, another take on east coast arts. Red carpet affairs, great parties, and the best international and local films are the highlights of this Nova Scotia festival. It is the fourth largest film festival in Canada and commences in September. The focus of the Atlantic Film Festival is both film and music, and though it attracts top actors and actresses from around the world, it remains as unpretentious as its original debut.

Nova Scotia Map

Pop Explosion is another of the key Halifax Nova Scotia events happening for four full days each October. With music being a central attraction throughout Halifax, it's no wonder this five-day fete is so popular. Homegrown stars take the stage and renowned bands that wouldn't normally make it to Halifax attend. Little known artists showcase local music in an effort to get both entertain and get noticed. Top producers and scouts also attend each year, making this a popular event with emerging artists.

It wouldn't be Nova Scotia if there weren't water-based Nova Scotia events, and there are plenty! The annual Dragonboat Festival each July in Halifax is an exciting outdoor activity. The crowds come out in full force to cheer on their favorite teams and enjoy cultural events, and local food. Plenty of friendly fun and activities make this a perfect family event. This is a great festival to pair up with a half day at one of the nearby golden-sand beaches.

Halifax is definitely centered around celebrating. It hosts a Nova Scotia festival for every interest. The Greek Festival in mid-June, the Multicultural Festival in July, and the Halifax Jazz Festival, also in July, are some of the best-received of all Nova Scotia events. Seafood lovers shouldn't miss CATCH Nova Scotia Seafood Festival for a taste of premium east coast seafood of all kinds that will demonstrate just how incredibly delicious and accessible dining on succulent lobster is all around the area.