Discover culture, music, and celebration at the best Acadian festivals in Nova Scotia.
Every summer, the sounds of fiddles, foot-stomping rhythms, and happy gatherings bring Nova Scotia to life. Acadian festivals in Nova Scotia, from Clare to Chéticamp, are great for those who want to interact with the culture on a deeper level. These events show the heart of Acadian culture, whether you're dancing to traditional Acadian music, trying local food, or participating in community celebrations.
Are you planning your summer vacation? These events are more than just parties; they're some of the most unique things to do in Nova Scotia, and people come from all over the Maritimes and beyond to see them. Whatever you are looking for the things to do in Cape Breton, Digby, Yarmouth, Annapolis Valley, don't miss the lively acadian events all across Nova Scotia. From storytelling under the stars to culinary feasts and parades full of colour, this guide will help you experience the vibrant heart of Acadian culture.

acadian festivals in nova scotia
July 2025

July 31 - August 3
Festival de l’Escaouette 2025
CHÉTICAMP
Delight in the rhythmic melodies that fill the air as talented musicians grace the stage throughout the festival. Witness the joyous spectacle of the children’s parade and the grandeur of the main parade, where colorful displays and lively performances showcase the essences of our shared heritage. Don’t miss the festival party, a lively gathering featuring music from local and non-local talent, dancing, and unforgettable memories. Join for a celebration of culture, creativity, and connection at Le Festival de L’Escaouette!

July 26 to August 6 and August 15, 2025
Clare Acadian Festival
CLARE
Celebrate the 70th Anniversary of Le Festival acadien de Clare in 2025, a celebration of Acadian culture and heritage SINCE 1955! The Festival acadien de Clare is the world’s oldest Acadian festival. Mark your calendars for July 26 to August 6 and August 15-16, 2025. Many activities for people of all ages take place throughout Clare, providing visitors the opportunity to visit and experience every part of this picturesque and culturally unique region.

July 11-12-13, 2025
Acadian Days
ANNAPOLIS VALLEY
Acadian Days in Grand-Pré is an annual festival with the mission of bringing together a large number of Acadians to celebrate and share their culture and history with tourists and the local community at the world's most renowned Acadian memorial site: Grand-Pré.

acadian festivals in nova scotia
august 2025
The Wedgeport Tuna Tournament & Festival is an annual event that takes place near the end of August. In the mid 1900s, we used to be able to catch plenty of tuna just off the coast of Wedgeport, however presently, most of the participating boats sail 12 hours from the wharf to a place called the “Hell Hole”, it is located south of Brown’s Bank and northeast of George’s Bank.
National Acadian Day is celebrated on August 15th each year. It's a day to celebrate Acadian culture and heritage, particularly in Nova Scotia. Les Trois Pignons, a cultural center in Cheticamp, Nova Scotia, is a place where you can explore Acadian history and art, including hooked rugs. They also host events like the "Meet Charlo & Zabeth" program and performances by groups like Voix-liées.
Come celebrate the 2025 Acadian Heritage Days with l'Acadie! On Sunday, Aug. 17th from noon until 4:00 join us for music, cultural demonstrations, and refreshments. See the newest exhibits in our museum or browse through our gift shop. And don't miss our annual bread auction, featuring loaves of freshly baked homemade bread and freshly churned butter!
Harbourfest weekend is a yearly summer event that has taken place for the last 43 years. It brings community, family, friends and tourists to our friendly, beautiful seaside Yacht Club. This event is for all ages. Harbourfest showcases musicians, scenic harbourfront bar, local seafood, food trucks, BBQ, fry station, children’s games, boating fun run, Hungry Man Breakfast, 5K Foggy Fun Run, and the local Mini Market. Come for the fun, stay for the sunsets!
On August 14, join us for a spectacular evening on the waterfront featuring:
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P’tit Belliveau
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Steve Riley and the Mamou Playboys
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Mary Beth Carty
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Hosted by MC Anika Lirette
On August 15, come to the official ceremony at Grand Parade in the morning, followed by a beautiful performance by ⭐️ Serena Wu. Come celebrate Acadian culture with us – it's going to be unforgettable! 🤩
Since 2018, the Truro Francophone Community Centre has been organizing festivities for National Acadian Day. Our simple tintamarre has evolved into a one-day festival in downtown Truro, thanks to the support of our sponsors and partners, The Marigold Cultural Centre and The Blunt Bartender.
These activities are open to anyone who wants to celebrate Acadian, Francophone, and Francophile culture through music, dance, film, and cuisine.
The Chez Deslauriers property is located on a coastal rise in Monk's Head with commanding views of St. George's Bay, Pomquet Beach and Cape Breton in the distance. The property includes a heritage home (converted to a tearoom), an interpretive centre, and an outdoor stage. A 6 km coastal and inland walking trail (Pomquet Acadian Trails) is located directly to the north of the property. The Chez Deslauriers property is maintained and administered by the Pomquet Development Society, a volunteer organization aimed at promoting the Acadian culture and encouraging tourism in the community.

acadian festivals in nova scotia
september 2025

September 14
Le Grand Fondo de la Baie
CLARE
Gran Fondo Baie Sainte-Marie is back for 2025! Our Gran Fondo has grown to become a bucket list 'must-do' cycling and cultural experience! As the largest cycling event in Atlantic Canada, we hosted 992 cyclists in 2019. This year's 7th edition will be a special occasion as we celebrate the 10-year anniversary of our inaugural event in 2015! Although a timed event, this is more of a self-paced FUN group event, rather than a race. Choose from three distances: 128 km Gran, 67 km Medio and 36 km Piccolo. Cyclists are encouraged to register early to participate in draws to win a free registration or prizes. A meal is included, and cyclists can choose between a vegetarian option, BBQ pork or the perennial favourite, fresh lobster in the shell!
acadian festivals in nova scotia
October 2025

octobre 23 - octobre 27
FrancoFest
Halifax
Established in 2011, Francofest was developed to highlight Francophone diversity and fill the need for a Francophone festival in Halifax. Together, volunteers and organizations work together each year to celebrate different aspects of Halifax's Acadian, Francophone, and Francophile culture through music, literature, and film.