13 Fun Things to do in Nova Scotia in September
September is one of the best times to visit Nova Scotia. The summer crowds are gone, the weather is still pleasant, and there’s no shortage of festivals, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, here are some fun events and experiences to check out across the province in September.
13 Things to Do in Nova Scotia in September
1. Hike the Highlands
September 13 – 22, 2024, various trails in Cape Breton
The Cape Breton Highlands are stunning year-round, but September is perfect for a hike.
Hike the Highlands is a 10-day festival that takes place in Cape Breton, showcasing stunning trails along the Cabot Trail and throughout the northern area of Cape Breton. The temperatures are cooler, the summer crowds have lessened and the fall colours are just starting to show.
There are guided hikes daily through some of the most scenic landscapes in Nova Scotia, including the Skyline Trail and our personal favourite, Franey Trail, as well as evening activities and events. Don’t forget to pack your camera, as the views are absolutely stunning.
2. Atlantic International Film Festival
September 11-18, Halifax
Movie buffs won’t want to miss the Atlantic International Film Festival (AIFF) in Halifax. This 8-day celebration is one of Canada’s premier celebrations of film and filmmaking, showcasing the best in Atlantic Canadian cinema, as well as films from around the world.
This year there are 96 feature and short films, which will be shown at Cineplex Cinemas Park Lane in Halifax. Tickets, passes and more information can be found here.
3. Lebanese Festival
September 6-8, Halifax
Kick off September with a weekend of amazing food, music, and dance at Halifax’s Lebanese Festival. Enjoy traditional Lebanese food like shawarma, falafel, and baklava, along with live music and entertainment. It’s a fun and delicious way to spend a weekend in Halifax.
4. Windsor Garlic Festival
September 14, Windsor
Love garlic? Then the Windsor Garlic Festival is the place to be!
Previously known as the Avondale Garlic Fest, this year’s festival will be held on Gerrish Street in Windsor, from Gray to Water Street.
Try some garlic-infused products, compete (or cheer) at the garlic-eating contest, and enjoy local wines and live music. Garlic and wine might sound like an unusual combo, but it’s a match made in foodie heaven.
5. Atlantic Open Farm Day
September 15, various locations across the province
On Open Farm Day, farms across Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada open their doors to the public. It’s a unique opportunity to learn what happens on a farm, meet the farmers and see where your food comes.
Pet and feed the animals at the French Duck Farm in West Petpeswick, take a free wagon ride tour of the orchard at Gates U Pick, or check out the lavender fields at Seafoam Lavender near River John.
6. Hants County Exhibition
September 13-15 & 20-22, Windsor
The Hants County Exhibition is the oldest continuously run agricultural fair in North America, and a fun family event for families. Like any traditional fair, this one in Windsor features tractor displays, antique engines, animal shows, and horse competitions.
We stumbled across this fair while spending a week in Windsor waiting for our car to be fixed, and the fair was the perfect way to spend a fall weekend.
7. Explore Your Own Backyard at Burntcoat Head Park
September 21, 9:30 am – 1:30 pm, Burntcoat Head Park
This is a great chance to explore one of Nova Scotia’s most unique natural landmarks — Burntcoat Head Park, home to the world’s highest tides. There will be activities for kids, free hotdogs, and the chance to walk on the ocean floor at low tide.
We’ve made this event an annual tradition in our family. The boys love the chance to walk along the ocean floor, searching for treasures like shells and hermit crabs in the tidal pools, or seeing the huge seaweed piles up close. Just be mindful of the tide times – it can come in quickly!
8. Go Apple Picking in the Annapolis Valley
September is apple season in Nova Scotia, and the Annapolis Valley is the prime spot for apple picking. Whether you’re looking to pick your own or just want to enjoy the crisp fall air, there are plenty of spots to get your apple fix.
Some popular orchards include Noggins Corner Farm and Dempsey Corner Orchards. You can fill a basket with fresh apples, take a wagon ride, and enjoy the crisp fall air. It’s one of our family’s favourite ways to spend an early fall weekend.
9. Visit a Sunflower Farm
Sunflowers are a welcome sign of fall, and while fields and tours aren’t as common in Nova Scotia, there are still some spots you can visit. Dakeyne Farms near Windsor is one of the few places where you can stroll through rows of these gorgeous golden flowers.
Soak up the late summer sun and snap a few photos of the towering sunflowers to celebrate the end of summer.
10. Go Camping
September is a fantastic time to go camping, and while the weather may not be as warm as during the summer months, the cooler nights and fewer bugs make fall camping a real treat. It’s one of the last chances to enjoy a weekend of camping before the provincial parks close for the season (many close by Thanksgiving).
Head to Kejimkujik National Park for some of the best camping in the province. The park is quieter at this time of year and it’s one of the best places to see the fall colours in Nova Scotia.
11. Deep Roots Music Festival
September 27-29, Wolfville
Head to Wolfville for the Deep Roots Music Festival, a vibrant celebration of Nova Scotia’s rich musical heritage. This festival showcases a diverse range of music, from folk and roots to blues, jazz, and even West African songs. You’ll hear talented artists from the Annapolis Valley, across Nova Scotia, and beyond, performing everything from Celtic tunes, to reggae rhythms and or Mi’kma’ki-inspired songs.
And if you can’t make it for the entire weekend, there’s a parade through town on Saturday morning that’s always fun to see.
12. Nova Scotia Stampede
September 26-29, Bible Hill (Truro)
When you think of stampedes, you probably picture the wide-open plains of the West — not the Maritimes. But the Nova Scotia Stampede brings all the excitement of bull riding, barrel racing, and rodeo culture right here to the East Coast. It’s a unique opportunity to experience a slice of country-western life without leaving the province.
Even if you’re new to the world of rodeos, this is an event worth checking out. From the impressive skills of the riders to the live music performances by Canadian artists, there’s plenty to enjoy. Grab some food from local vendors, take in the atmosphere, and experience something a little different to close out September in Nova Scotia.
13. Mahone Bay Scarecrow Festival
September 28-29, Mahone Bay
If you’re looking for a unique and fun, family-friendly event, the Mahone Bay Scarecrow Festival is not to be missed. With over 250 handmade, life-sized scarecrows displayed throughout the town, it’s a great way to kick off the fall season.
Throughout the town, you’ll find scarecrows of every type – from traditional versions to ones that resemble the Royal Family, and of course, maritime-themed ones, like a lobster fisherman, as well as many more. Grab a coffee and take a walk around town while enjoying the fun displays.
While the main activities of the festival take place on the first weekend, the scarecrows are displayed until mid-October.
Final Thoughts: What to Do in September in Nova Scotia
With so many exciting events happening, September is the perfect time to explore Nova Scotia. From hiking and apple picking to film festivals and scarecrow displays, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the early fall season. Get out there and make the most of the last warm days of the season! If you’re planning to explore these events, book your accommodations early – September is a popular time to visit Nova Scotia!
More Inspiration for Your Nova Scotia Bucket List
10 Best Places to Go Apple Picking in Nova Scotia
13 Fun Things to do in Nova Scotia in September
Where to Find the Best Pumpkin Patches Near Halifax
Best Places to See the Fall Colours in Nova Scotia
11 Things to Do in Nova Scotia in the Fall
Best Ghost Tours in Nova Scotia
The Most Haunted Places in Nova Scotia
