10 Fun Things to Do in Nova Scotia in July
If you’re looking for some fun things to do in Nova Scotia in July, you’re in luck! There’s plenty of activities and events this month throughout the province. Here are ten things you definitely don’t want to miss!
What to Do in Nova Scotia in July
Summer is finally here and it’s time to get out enjoy all that Nova Scotia has to offer! From live music and theatre to festivals and outdoor activities, there is plenty to do in the province this July.
1. Celebrate Canada Day
What better way to kick off the month than by celebrating our country’s birthday?
Head to Halifax for a day of fun, as they celebrate “Kanata” this year.
There are plenty of activities taking place, including the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo Canada Day parade, live music, and fireworks.
Many other communities throughout Nova Scotia, including Yarmouth, Middleton and Louisburg will have Canada Day events on as well, so be sure to check out what’s happening near you.
Many museums and attractions offer free admission on Canada Day and host their own celebrations.
In the Halifax area, the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, Pier 21, and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic all offer free admission on July 1st.
The Fortress of Louisburg and all other National Historic Sites of Canada also offer free admission on Canada Day.
2. Experience the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo
A highlight of the summer in Nova Scotia is the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo. This spectacular event, held in Halifax from June 28 to July 5, 2024, is the perfect kickoff to summer.
The Tattoo showcases a blend of music, dance, and pageantry, and features an impressive lineup of military bands, acrobats, dancers, and other performers from around the world. The amazing acts and high-energy performances create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Make sure to get your tickets early, as this is one of the most popular events in Nova Scotia during the summer. It’s a must-see for anyone looking to enjoy a world-class performance in Halifax.
Ticket prices range from $15 – $74.50, but kids are free with an adult ticket (one child per adult) and discounts are available for CAA members and seniors. Tickets can be purchased online.
3. Pick Strawberries
Strawberries are in season this month, and there’s nothing better than picking your own right from the farm.
There are plenty of u-pick strawberry farms throughout Nova Scotia, especially in the Annapolis Valley area.
If you’re not up for picking your own, stop by one of the many famers’ markets throughout the province and pick up a few baskets of fresh berries!
4. Take a Tour to See Puffins
July is a fantastic time to catch a glimpse of puffins in Nova Scotia. The best places to see these cute birds are in Cape Breton on the Bird Islands, or by taking a tour out of Englishtown. Another great spot is Brier Island, where you can also join a guided tour.
These tours offer a unique opportunity to observe puffins in their natural habitat and learn more about their behavior and environment. For more detailed information, check out my post on the where to see puffins in Nova Scotia.
Don’t miss this chance to see one of Nova Scotia’s most beloved seabirds up close!
5. Pick Lavender
July is the perfect time to experience the beauty of lavender in Nova Scotia. Seafoam Lavender near Pictou, is a great spot to visit, with stunning fields to walk through and the opportunity to pick your own lavender.
Stroll through the fragrant fields and take in the serene atmosphere. After picking your own lavender, be sure to stop by the small shop on-site, where you can purchase a variety of lavender products, from essential oils to handmade soaps and more.
It’s a wonderful way to spend a summer day and take home a bit of Nova Scotia’s natural beauty.
6. Attend a Concert
Nova Scotia is known for its live music scene, and there are plenty of concerts happening throughout the province this July.
You’ll find free concerts happening throughout the summer, from Cape Breton to Yarmouth and of course, plenty of free concerts in the Halifax area.
If you’re in the Halifax area, head across the harbour to Dartmouth, where you’ll find free concerts at the Dartmouth Ferry Terminal park every Saturday and Sunday during the summer.
7. Enjoy Lobsterfest
Nova Scotia is known for its lobster, and what better way to enjoy it than at one of the many Lobsterfests happening this month?
Enjoy plenty of delicious seafood, as well as live music and entertainment.
There are festivals taking place in communities all along the coast, from Yarmouth to Pictou.
Pictou hosts a popular Lobster Carnival, from July 5-7, 2024. This three day event celebrates the end of the fishing season in the area, with concerts, parades, lobster boat races, a mid-way and fireworks over the water, as well as a children’s parade and plenty of other activities for the whole family.
Digby also holds a Lobster Bash the same weekend. Serving up Lobster Rolls, Lobster Chowder and Steamed Lobster along the waterfront, you’ll also find many lobster-themed competitions and other events throughout the weekends well as concerts on the waterfront and a boat Parade of Light before the spectacular fireworks display to end the weekend.
Be sure to check out what’s happening in your area, and get ready for some delicious lobster!
8. Attend the Antigonish Highland Games
The Antigonish Highland Games are a popular event, and this year they’re taking place from July 7-14, 2024.
This three-day event celebrates Scottish heritage with Highland dancing, piping and drumming competitions, as well as heavy events like the caber toss and throwing the hammer.
You’ll also find plenty of food vendors, live music, and other entertainment. This is a great event for the whole family to enjoy!
9. Experience Busker Fest
Halifax’s Busker Festival is a popular summer event, and it’s happening from July 31 – August 5 this year. This free festival on the Halifax Waterfront features the best street performers from around the world, including musicians, acrobats and magicians.
Along the waterfront, there’s also a mid-way and carnival, international vendors selling food, clothing and more. Admission is free but tipping to the performers hats is appreciated.
Don’t miss out on this fun festival – it’s one of the best things to do in Nova Scotia in the summer!
10. Enjoy Other Festivals
In addition to the festivals already mentioned, there are plenty of other great festivals happening throughout Nova Scotia in July. There are food festivals, art festivals, music festivals and more happening in communities all across the province. Be sure to check out what’s happening near you, and enjoy a festive summer in Nova Scotia!
Other Festivals in Nova Scotia in July:
The Halifax Jazz Festival runs from July 9-14, 2024 and features free concerts, workshops, outdoor stages and more. It’s the largest summer festival in Atlantic Canada and promises ‘to bring music to the streets, parks and hearts of the city of Halifax and surrounding areas’. Daytime programming is free, and aimed at all ages, so don’t miss out!
Halifax Pride Festival is happening in Downtown Halifax from July 18-28, 2024 and there are plenty of events over the 11 day celebration. This is the premier Pride festival in Atlantic Canada and the 4th largest Pride Festival in Canada. Held at the Garrison Grounds on Citadel Hill, there’s performances, musical acts, comedians and a Community Market, along with other events, including the Pride Parade, which happens on Saturday July 20th.
The annual Yarmouth Seafest happens from July 13-24, 2022. It’s a signature Nova Scotia festival that’s been running for over three decades. Come join in the celebration of life by the sea with races, a parade of lights, a children’s parade and more. Enjoy the food, culture and life of a coastal community at this fun festival.
In Dartmouth, Nova Multifest takes place from July 19-21 at Alderney Landing. Celebrate ethnicity and uniqueness at this event annual festival that features live shows, demonstrations and exhibits from around the world, as well as the opportunity to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts and kids activities, such as the bouncy castle. It’s a great family-friendly event; admission is free.
Do you know of any other events and fun things to do in Nova Scotia in July? Leave us a comment below and we’d love to add it to our list!
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