Town of Pictou
Festivals & Events Festivals & Events Festivals & Events
Town of Pictou

Festivals & Events

Deeply rooted Scottish heritage, strong Maritime traditions and ties to the sea are reflected in a wealth of diverse festivals and and events that take place annually in this seaside community. These celebrations bring life to the communities culture and stories. Become a part of a celebration......

 

April 7               

Tartan Day
A celebration of all things Scottish at the Hector Exhibit Centre. An evening of food, fun and traditional music. 902-485-4563.

May 16

Hector Heritage Quay Opens

June 7

Museum Day
Local museums within Pictou County will showcase their work in preserving and promoting local heritage and culture, fun for the whole family. 902-485-6057

July 1

Canada Day
Celebrate Canada's Birthday with a full day of activities at Broidy Park and entertainment following in the evening on the waterfront. 902-485-6057

July 4 - 6

Pictou Lobster Carnival 
The Pictou Lobster Carnival is one of Nova Scotia's prestigious "Signature Events", attracting visitors from all over the world to experience authentic Maritime music and culture. The event has also been recognized by Travelocity.ca as one of their "Local Secrets, Big Finds" for 2007.   www.pictoulobstercarnival.ca

July 5

Black Battalion Memorial
A special tribute to Canada's first and only all black battalion who contributed to Canada's First World War effort with strong determination.

July 10 -      September 15    

New Scotland Days
A "Living Heritage Festival" that celebrates the pioneer spirit that shaped Pictou County and Nova Scotia. Each week during the festival special events are scheduled at the Hector Heritage Quay and throughout the community every Saturday. 902-485-6057 or http://www.townofpictou.com/special_events.html

 

August 4

Natal Day
On Natal Day there will be no shortage of activities for everyone to enjoy over the August long weekend to celebrate this civic birthday. 902-485-6057

August 13 - 17

Hector Festival
The Hector Festival is five days packed with entertainment, displays, workshops, and demonstrations. The festival commemorates the landing of the Ship Hector in 1773. A re-enactment of this historic event takes place on the closing day of the festival where costumed settlers row ashore to be greeted by the 84th Regiment of Foot with a commentary of the voyage. www.decostecentre.ca

 

August 22 - 24 Bluegrass Festival
The annual Pictou North Colchester Bluegrass Festival will take place on the Exhibition Grounds in Pictou and will provide some fabulous entertainment. This unique festival attracts hundreds of visitors and residents alike to the town for a fun filled three day muscial showcase. 902-382-2166 or
902-485-1161.

 August 23 - 24

Maritime Kite and Kayak Festival
A Celebration of wind and water, this 2 day event will include lots of activities related to kayaking and kite flying. It will tickle your child hood again and bring back memories, not to mention how spectacular the kite flying demonstration and kayak know-how of our experts! Don't miss out on this unique festival! If you have been thinking about kayaking or kite flying, this is the place to be this weekend! www.pictoulodge.com

 September 3 - 6

Pictou North Colchester Exhibition
The Exhibition is one of the province's oldest exhibitions beginning back in the early 1800's. It has grown to become a four day exposition with an agricultural theme including musical entertainment, dairy and commercial beef displays, milking contests, ATV events, demolition derby, truck pulls, strongman competition, 4-H events and much more.  902-485-6411

 

September 14

Terry Fox Run
Participants are encouraged to walk, run or wheel the five kilometer route along the scenic Jitney Trail anytime that day. For information contact 902-485-6057

 

October 19

Hector Heritage Quay Closes

 

November

Christmas at the DeCoste
To begin the season, visit the deCoste Entertainment Centre, where you can experience the enchanting "Christmas by the Sea."
Start your wish list off with quality maritime products from local crafters featuring speciality food items to woolens. www.decostecentre.ca

 

December 5 Pictou Christmas Light-up 
Ring in the Christmas season at the annual Christmas Light-up held at the Pictou Waterfront & Market Square. Enjoy the tree lighting ceremony, entertainment, carol singing, live Nativity, free hot chocolate, Firetruck Santa and the PFD elves. www.townofpictou.com or 902-485-6057

 

ON-GOING EVENTS

MID-JUNE TO MID-SEPTEMBER
Pictou County Weekend Craft Market
Saturdays, Sundays & Holidays  10:00 am - 5:00 pm
www.pictouweekendmarket.com

JULY & AUGUST
Summer Musical Showcase
Free outdoor concerts at the Visitor's Marina Stage on the Waterfront
Sundays & Mondays, 6:00 pm
902-485-6057

JULY & AUGUST
Summer Sounds of Nova Scotia
deCoste Centre
Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday at 8:00 pm
www.decostecentre.ca

JULY
Mayor's Tea
New Horizon's Seniors Club
Friday, July 18th