120 Ways To Spend Your Days!
We were amazed when we sat down and began adding up all the different ways you can spend your days (when you spend your nights at the Evening Sail!).
Everyone has a different idea about what makes a perfect way to spend a day.. For my husband it means golfing, golfing and more golfing... and while I'm much happier sitting under a shady tree with a good book, there are some poor souls who just can't seem to enjoy themselves if life and limb are not threatened in some fashion (you know who you are... can anyone say tidal bore rafting?).
All summer long, it seems like there's a different festival every weekend, with dozens of museums and heritage sites left over to fill up your weekdays. From tracing your family tree to learning to speak a little gaelic or dance a highland fling, Nova Scotia's local festivals cater to just about every interest.
We also have miles and miles of groomed hiking trails, dozens of ridiculously un-populated sandy beaches, learning experiences, great birdwatching itineraries, studio rally tours, sea kayaking and, of course, the afore-mentioned tidal bore rafting. So, whether you're a thrill seeker or a sun-worshipper, we're sure you'll find plenty to keep you busy at the Evening Sail.
#1 Tartan Day Celebrations
Join us to celebrate the legacy of Scottish people in Nova Scotia and the role they have played in the cultural, economic and political life of the province. Event activities vary each year. April 6, 2009 www.townofpictou.com
#2 Stroll Along The Jitney Walking Trail
Take a walk on the Jitney Walking Trail along the waterfront in Pictou. Walkers and cyclists can enjoy a three kilometre trail to the site where the ship Hector made its historic landing in 1773. Park benches are available, allowing you to take in the panoramic views. Along the way you can learn about Pictou through interpretive panels and views of the site the Hector settlers landing. The Jitney Trail connects directly to the Trans Canada Trail System for more avid hikers. Stroll the Jitney Trail and maybe stop for an ice cream on the waterfront
#3 Trace your family tree at the Hector Exhibit Centre…
The Hector National Exhibit Centre, a part of the Nova Scotia Museum, offers a location for rotational displays and exhibits for local artisans to showcase their talents, historians to share their stories, and musicians with traditional Maritime flare. The Centre also houses local archives and genealogical information which is available if you are tracing your family tree or researching community history. There is an extensive library of books that pertain to Pictou County, local communities, churches, historical figures, and transcriptions of many of the cemeteries in Pictou County. The resources include local groups and individuals, census, church, and cemetery records - vital statistics from local newspapers, indexed, and microfilmed and historical books.
Centre www.rootsweb.com/nspcghs
#4 Enjoy The View From The Greenhill Look-off
The Greenhill Look-off provides a dazzling view of the western half of Pictou County. The steep slope down into the West River Valley gives an unobstructed, breathtaking view of some of the natural splendor of the county. It's a fantastic spot to take photos or just relax and enjoy a magnificent sunset. Beautiful at any time of year, this is one of the best places to view the fall colours. Open Late May through mid-October
#5 Spring Tea & Art Gallery Opening
The Fraser Cultural Centre, (FCC) located on Main Street in Tatamagouche houses the area's Visitor Information Centre, an Anna Swan Display, the Fraser Art Gallery and The Gift Shop. The FCC is the home of the Northumberland Arts Council whose mandate is to promote the Arts, Crafts, and Cultural activities along the North Shore and to assist in the preservation and presentation of the heritage of the area.The Centre offers many interesting programs, workshops and the beautiful Artworks of local children and adults (and some from away) in the Fraser Gallery. May 13, 2009, 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm
#6 Take a daytrip to Prince Edward Island
The ferry is only 5 minutes from our front door.
#7 Joe Earle Victoria Day Race
The Joe Earle Victoria Day Road Races are a tradition in Trenton, running for over 35 years. Races consist of both low and high competitions for all ages, tikes & masters alike. Hundreds of families come together from all across the province to visit Trenton on Victoria day. Held each Victoria Day Monday. May 25, 2009
#8 Get Back To Nature...
Birdwatching Enthusiasts have long enjoyed coming to Pictou County for birdwatching. With a number of bald eagles and osprey making their nests in the various areas of the county, there are many opportunities to study these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. A unique viewing opportunity is the nesting site of the cormorants along the Pictou Causeway. This migrating species returns to this site every year and has become a major landmark in Pictou County.
#9 Museum Day
Each June the family of Nova Scotia Museums host "Museum Day" celebrations. In Pictou, visit the Hector Heritage Quay, Northumberland Fisheries Museum, and McCulloch House Museum. Enjoy maritime music, learn how to rig a tall ship, try blacksmithing, learn about lobstering and local fisherfolk, find out how the Scottish people influenced North American culture. A fun filled day for the whole family. Entertainment, model boat building, blacksmith and rigging demonstrations, games, Scottish Treats, art corner with resident artist Dave MacIntosh and treasure hunts.
FREE ADMISSION. June 13, 2009
#10 True Taste Of Nova Scotia...
Taste the homemade strawberry rhubarb pie (best served cold with vanilla ice cream) at Shillelagh's in Truro (pronounced Sha-lay-lee's). One of our favourite guilty pleasures!
#11 Have Breakfast For Lunch...
Sugar Moon Farm began in 1973 as Boondock Maple Products, owned and operated by Bob Williams. In 1994, the current owners commenced a 2-year apprenticeship learning the craft of maple sugaring. Today they are proud to continue the springtime tradition of creating maple syrup over a wood-fired evaporator, fuelled with mountain hardwood logged from the property with their team of Clydesdales. They produce quality food in a manner that supports local agriculture and community, and respects land and water. The whole-grain pancakes are made with Maritime-grown stone-ground wheat & fresh buttermilk. Sausages are made just down the road at the award-winning Austrian Smokehaus & contain no fillers or preservatives. They make their own Sugar Moon Maple Baked Beans. Throughout the Wild Blueberry Harvest Festival, Sugar Moon Farms will be offering all u-can eat Organic Wholegrain Blueberry Pancakes with Pure Maple syrup & more! Gourmet maple inspired dinners, cooked by different Nova Scotia chefs, are scheduled throughout the year.
www.sugarmoon.ca
#12 Unwind On The Waterfront...
Have a glass of wine on the patio overlooking the harbour at Carver's Pub in Pictou. Hang around for Saturday Night Trivia...
#13 Art Gallery 215 Opening & Dessert Tea
In mid-June, Gallery 215 opens for the season and welcomes contributing artists, community residents and visitors to the launch of the season. The gallery is a modern showcase in a heritage setting, nestled in the historic waterside village of Selma, Nova Scotia, CanadaOur "Gallery of Artists" includes over 40 talented local contributors working in all mediums.Pen & paper, paint & canvas, wood, stone & wool, our artists excel in many different methods of expression of the world they see around them. The Gallery's home, the "old Selmah Schoolhouse", is close to 190 years old and originally served the community as a two room school house. The School operated for 96 years and it was reported to the Superintendent of Schools that "in terms of structure and style, the Selma School was one of the most outstanding rural schools in Nova Scotia". www.artgallery215.com
#14 Hike Fitzpatrick Mountain
Get out your hiking boots and climb Fitzpatrick Mountain. Located at Scotsburn to Millsville, this eight km trail is a challenging narrow woodland hiking trail has steep sections and occasional wet sections. Sturdy footwear recommended. Suitable for hiking, skilled mountain bikers, and trail runners. Accessible at Scotsburn behind recreation grounds at route 256, and from Millsville, less than one-half km along Elmfield Rd. from the Herman Church Cairn at the intersection of Millsville and Elmfield Roads. This trail was developed entirely by the Pictou County Trails Association, with the cooperation of the landowners along the route.
#15 Tree Sculpture Tour
Why chop down a dead tree when you can turn it into public art? That seems to be the thinking in parts of Nova Scotia. Truro, Antigonish and Amherst are the three main communities for "arboreal art" in the province, says the new book "Nova Scotia Book of Musts" (MacIntyre Purcell Publishing). After trees in Truro were killed by Dutch elm disease, a local group hired an Acadian chainsaw artist to sculpt the trunks "rather than lose everything and be faced with naked streetscapes," writes author Allan Lynch.
"The idea caught on and other individuals and businesses began turning their tree trunks into art." The eclectic depictions includes bald eagles, girl guides, the two wrestlers shown on the Stanfield's underwear logo, a Second World War RCAF pilot, an aboriginal RCMP officer, Truro's first mayor, a railway machinist who maintained locomotives in Truro, the Virgin Mary and a tennis club executive.
For a guide to Truro's 32 tree sculptures located along an 8.2-kilometre route, go to www.truro.ca/business/truro-tree-sculpture-project.html .
Tree sculptures in and around Antigonish show, among other things, an Irish farmer, a highland dancer, a First World War soldier, highland curlers, a bagpiper, a Scotsman - "and, in an ironic twist, a kilted caber tosser," says the book. Go to www.antigonishcounty.ns.ca/visitor.htm for details. Antigonish tree sculpture brochure at
www.antigonishcounty.ns.ca
#16 Hector Heritage Quay
The Hector Heritage Quay (meaning waterfront landing), Pictou, is one of Nova Scotia's major cultural tourist attractions. Here you can relive the way of life and experiences of the Scottish settlers who landed on the shores of Pictou in 1773. Step back in time as the history of the Scots comes alive before you. Hear the sizzling sounds of the blacksmith's forge and the rhythm of the chisels and mallets of the ship's carpenters. See the site's resident artist Dave MacIntosh at work. Explore the intricacies of the authentic re-creation of the Ship Hector. View colorful exhibits and full size scenes of the lives of the settlers. You will feel the struggles of the voyage across the cruel Atlantic and the pioneering spirit of these proud people as the ocean air takes you back in time to another age
#17 Not Since Moses Race
A rare, really really rare, not since moses, chance to run (10k) or walk (5k) across the bottom of the Bay of Fundy after it parts at low tide around the Five Islands. Participants of all ages explore Fundy's fascinating ocean floor right where 15 meters (45 feet) of water flows a couple of hours before and after the event. Begun in 2006, this outdoor adventure challenge for all ages is now one of the most talked about adventures in Canada. June 27, 2009 Runners and walkers pre-register to secure a spot. Cost per person $50, includes post-race BBQ on the islands while you wait to be boated back to the mainland.
www.notsincemoses.com
#18 Picnic At The Seashore...
Let us pack you a lobster picnic and you can watch the sunset from nearby Caribou Beach, a lovely little beach only minutes from our door.
#19 Step Back In Time At Sherbrooke Village...
Sherbrooke Village depicts a typical Nova Scotian village from 1860 to pre-WW1.
With approximately 80 buildings, over 25 of those open to the public, it is the largest Nova Scotia Museum site. Visit the woodturner shop, blacksmith, pottery shop, and printery. During your visit, enjoy a delicious, light meal at the What Cheer Tea Room located within the Village. Built on an economy of ship building, lumbering and gold mining, Sherbrooke Village reflects Nova Scotia as it was during its industrial boom in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Visit a place where time has stood still... visit Historic SherbrookeVillage.
#20 Imagine A Life At Sea...
The Northumberland Fisheries Museum, located in downtown Pictou, tells the story of fishermen in the area from the 1800's to the present. There are over 1000 Artifacts with new ones arriving daily, Boat Building Models, Rare Live Lobsters, an authentic Fisherman's Bunkhouse, the "Silver Bullet" (a 1930's fishing/racing boat), and many tributes to the local fisher folk. The museum is housed in the old Pictou Train Station which stopped running in the 1950's. The building was devastated by fire in 1996 and rebuilt in 1999. Currently housed in the old train station, a new post and beam facility is under works on the waterfront. To date, a lighthouse and lobster hatchery have been completed and are open to the public.
#21 Go Strawberry Picking…
River Breeze Farm Market and its famed corn maze and strawberry U-pick lies on the outskirts of Truro, Nova Scotia. With some of the richest soil in all of Canada, the quality of River Breeze Farm's strawberries, beef, sweet corn, pumpkins, and sunflowers is second to none. River Breeze Farm Market is the perfect spot to pick up a tasty treat like an ice cream or fudge on a summer's afternoon or all the fixings for a picnic or barbecue. River Breeze farm has continued to expand in recent years to include Atlantic Canada's largest corn maze. The corn maze, four miles in length, has seen visitors from as far as New Zealand, Thailand, and Europe and is the number one 'agri-tainment' destination in Atlantic Canada… sunflowersFresh Fudge, Ice Cream, baked goods sweet corn, pumpkins and sunflowersFresh Fudge, Ice Cream, baked goods Strawberry U-Pick
#22 Go sea kayaking with Coastal Spirits Expeditions
Coastal Spirits Expeditions' Adventurer - Their half-day tour is the perfect introduction to sea kayaking. Known as the 'communing with the seals' tour, your time spent with them will be relaxing, educational and fun. We spend most of our time playing with the beautiful Grey Seals, one of the largest of the 'true seal' family…some males are upwards of 8ft long and 800lbs! A light repast with seasonal fruit and chocolate awaits you on one of our many beaches before heading back to start your next adventure in beautiful Nova Scotia. www.coastalspiritexp.com
#23 Amherst Point Migratory Bird Park
This bird-watching park consists of a 1000-hectare Nationally Protected Habitat Area with 8 km of trails winding through a diverse landscape of marsh and mixed forests. A primary trail leads from the parking area to a pond and marsh and onward to several bird viewing sites. Several secondary trails through the woods and across grassy areas are popular places for serious birders. The species most commonly found here include Gold Finch, Blue Jay, Purple Martin, Purple Finch, Red Winged Black Birds, Chickadees, various swallows and sparrows and a variety of ducks.
#24 Lismore Sheep Farm
Lismore Sheep Farm farm is located just off the Sunrise Trail (Route 6), along the beautiful Northumberland Shore. It is a working sheep farm with about 300 sheep - mainly Dorset / Finn crosses which produce a beautiful soft fleece. They use the wool to create a wide range of products, some of which include ~ wool blankets, wool filled comforters, wool mattress pads, yarn, hand knit sweaters, socks, hats, mitts, etc. They also carry a variety of sheepskin products ~ mitts, slippers, seatbelt covers, dusters, insoles. Washable sheepskins have proven to be extremely popular for a variety of uses, some of which include ~ floor rug, chair cover, motorcycle seat, wheelchairs, etc. In the spring of 2003 they started making wooden needles as well. During the summer the barn is open for visitors to see the sheep and lambs up close with an interpretive display that will interest all ages.
If you visit the farm, you will meet their dogs - two working Border Collies ~ Tess and Boo, used for gathering the sheep and two Great Pyreneese guard dogs ~ Shep and Spot ~ to protect our sheep and lambs from coyotes and other predators.
www.lismoresheepfarmwoolshop.com
#25 Summer Night Serenade...
Pictou Summer Musical Showcase Hector Heritage Quay Visitor's Marina Stage. Be entertained by some of the region's finest performers during these free outdoor waterfront concerts. Sundays & Mondays at 6 pm. Every week on Mondays, Sundays between July 1, 2009 and August 31, 2009
#26 Watch Craftsmen At Work...
Grohmann Knives Handcrafted Grohmann Knives are recognized around the world for their beauty, balance and quality. They have won more than 25 international honors including a display at the New York's prestigious Museum of Modern Art. used by hunters and chefs for over 45 years and still going strong. See Grohmann Knives being made using time-honoured old world traditions of hand crafted precision and care. It takes 53 steps to produce one of Grohmann's precision kitchen or rugged outdoor knives. Free factory tours are normally conducted Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Minimum 4 Adults Required Per Tour & children under 16 yrs. must be accompanied by an adult. Call ahead to verify tours are going the day you visit. www.grohmannknives.com .
#27 Try Out extreme Golfing …
Pictou Golf Course is a short but very hilly, 1959 yard, par 32, 9 hole course. It presents golfers with established, well maintained greens and fairways that offer spectacular views of Pictou Harbour and the surrounding countryside. Constant ocean breezes, up and downhill lies, well placed bunkers and small greens provide challenge to any golfer. For more information visit www.nsga.ns.ca or call 902- 485-4435
#28 Henry Ketchum Trail and Cable Bridge
The Chignecto Ship Railway was designed by railway engineer Henry Ketchum as a short and safe route between Chignecto Bay and the Northumberland Strait. The 500 mile journey around Nova Scotia from New England to the St. Lawrence would have been shortened to just 17 miles. Two locomotives running side by side on parallel tracks would pull a 200 wheel railcar which carried the ship. The project was nearly complete in 1891 when financing collapsed. Henry Ketchum Hiking Trail runs for 4km between Tidnish Bridge Visitor Centre and Tidnish Dock Provincial Park, and follows the route of the Chignecto Ship Railway. It crosses an historic bridge and a modern suspension bridge which crosses the Tidnish River and offers great views. Tidnish Dock Provincial Park was established in 1982 to protect and interpret the eastern terminus of the marine railway, and to provide complementary recreational opportunities and services.
Open: mid May to mid October
#29 Catch A Ceilidh In Antigonish...
The Antigonish Ceilidh Association Ceilidhs take place every second Saturday from 2-5pm at Piper's Pub on College Street in beautiful downtown Antigonish. The line-up of fabulous entertainers may change, but the great tunes and dancing found in this relaxing and fun afternoon are always the same! See some of the areas best musicians including Troy MacGillivray, Allan Dewar, Marion Dewar, John Pellerin, Dara Smith, Kinnon & Betty Lou Beaton, Shelley Campbell, Mark Boudreau, Andrea Beaton, Marion Boudreau and many more! Every 2 weeks on Saturdays between January 10, 2009 and December 31, 2009 www.antigonishceilidhs.com
#30 See Group Of Seven At The Crombie House Art Gallery
The Sobey Art Foundation was established in 1981 with a mandate to carry on the work of entrepreneur and business leader, the late Frank H. Sobey, of collecting and preserving representative examples of 19th and 20th century Canadian art. One of the finest private collections of its kind, the Sobey Art Foundation has assembled exemplary examples from Canadian Masters like Cornelius Krieghoff, Tom Thomson and J.E.H MacDonald. The collection is housed in an intimate setting at Crombie House, the former home of Frank Sobey and his wife Irene in Pictou County, Nova Scotia. Open to the public during JULY and AUGUST on Wednesdays only
#31 Join The Gathering of the Clans
Pugwash celebrates the annual Gathering of the Clans Scottish Festival. This historic festival was instituted in 1951 by a few spirited citizens of the village. The main focus of the early festivals was highland Dancing along with Boat Races which had been held for many years. Accompanying the dancers came Highland Pipe Bands, and individual Piping and Drumming Competitions. Over the years, the festival has evolved to include Heavyweight Competitions, Lobster Dinners, Midway, Crafts, Musical Entertainment, Street Entertainment, Parades and a spectacular Fireworks display at dusk. This year will mark the 58th year of Scottish celebrations. The Grande Parade starts at 10 AM, then Highland Dance competitions, followed by day-long entertainment in Eaton Park. The Midway, vendors, and artisans offer lots to explore and don't miss the fireworks at 10 PM over the harbour! For more information visit: www.pugwashvillage.com
June 27, 2009 to July 1, 2009 Admission $5 Adult, $3 Children
#32 Re-live your teenage years...
... and go to one of the few remaining drive-in theatres. The Empire Drive-In is only 10 minutes away.
#33 Macaan Tidal Bore
Located immediately adjacent to the 242 highway in Macaan, the site provides exceptional views of both a fresh water wetland and salt water marsh. A short walking trail leads to a tidal bore viewing area through the marshes. This tidal habitat is home to a variety of fresh and salt water bird species such as the Mallard, Wood and Black Ducks, Chickadees as well as various swallows and sparrows. Visitors will also see marsh grasses in the lower elevations such as arrowgrass and sea plantain. While walking out to view the tidal basin, look for pheasants, muskrats and beavers. Tidal bore schedules change daily so visit www.centralnovascotia.com/tides.asp for specific times.
#34 McCulloch House Museum
New and interactive exhibit tells the fascinating story of one of the many groups who settled Nova Scotia. View the many works of Dr. Thomas McCulloch and learn about this prominent educator who achieved international acclaim and paved the way for today's education system. http://museum.gov.ns.ca/mch
#35 Hear The Summer Sounds of Nova Scotia
A series of informal ceilidhs featuring traditional Maritime music with singers, dancers, fiddlers and pipers - a Feast of Maritime Music held at the deCoste Centre in Pictou
Every week on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays between July 7, 2009 and August 27, 2009 Admission$16.00/students $8
#36 Check Out The Fossils At The Fundy Geological Museum
Discover an Ancient World and see some of the oldest dinosaur bones in Canada. Meet some of the ancient creatures that lived here millions of years ago - the world's first reptiles, an ancestor of frogs, early dinosaurs, giant dragonflies and a sow-bug-like creature as long as a baseball bat. So many great fossils! Explore the Mineral Treasures of Nova Scotia, exposed when the great Fundy Tides washed away the sea cliffs. See a collection of beautiful amethyst and agate gem stones. Curatorial Field Trips Fridays and Saturdays in June July and August http://museum.gov.ns.ca/fgm
#37 The North Shore Archives...
...located upstairs at the Tatamagouche Creamery, contains an extensive collection of materials relating to the North Shore area. Research resources include genealogical records of local families, census records, history books, obituaries and cemetery records, pictures, maps, and information from newspapers about local history, people, places and events. Summer hours: Monday - Saturday: 10 am - 5 pm; Closed on Sunday except by appointment Off season: Wednesday: 1 - 4 pm; or by appointment (902) 657-3500
#38 Tatamagouche Saturday Market at the Creamery Square
Mr. Alexander Ross purchased this waterfront property in 1922 and in 1925 he built and announced the opening of his new creamery. Over 1000 local farms supplied milk to the Creamery in order to produce its famous "Tatamagouche Butter", which it did daily, making almost 2000 lbs. In 1930, J. J. Creighton purchased the Creamery and after he passed away in 1967, Scotsburn Dairy Cooperative Limited acquired it. Scotsburn kept the Creamery operational from 1968 until they closed its doors in 1992. Soon after which, they donated the one-acre lot and 2 buildings to the village of Tatamagouche with the stipulation that no structural changes were to be made to the building's exterior, including the name and colour. The North Shore Archives and Giantess Anna Swan Exhibit are pleased to be housed at the Creamery. The Creamery provides a home for many community festival and events as well as The Tatamagouche Farmer's Market every Saturday from 8 am – noon. www.tata.ns.ca
#39 River Hebert Tidal Bore Park
This site, which is located immediately adjacent to the River Hebert bridge (on the old bridge abutment), provides a close view of a tidal basin, and graphic testimony to the power of the Fundy tides. The process of carving and deposition simultaneously occurs as the tide carries silt from the red sandstone deposits that underlie the marsh, creating a path along the River Hebert tidal basin.Information panels provide detailed accounts of the river and the tides, and a tidal clock tells when the next tidal bore is expected. Black Spruce grow along the the banks of the river, and Red Oak and Balsam Fir in the higher, better drained areas. Tidal bore schedules change daily so visit www.centralnovascotia.com/tides.asp for specific times.
#40 Build sandcastles at Melmerby Beach
Melmerby Beach Pictou County is home to seven beautiful beaches and Melmerby is the best known of these hidden treasures. One of the finest beaches along the entire Sunrise Trail, the "Merb" has a 2 km sandy shore and the warmest waters you'll find north of the Carolinas. There are two sides to this glorious beach: a broader outer side and a narrow inner beach with water so warm you'll feel like you are in the world's largest bathtub. Sandcastles, rolling waves, gentle breezes, walks along a winding boardwalk and starry skies set the stage for fun-filled days or romantic evenings.
#41 The Northumberland Quilt Show
15th Annual Show & Sale will be held Friday from 12 - 6 pm and Saturday from 10 am - 6 pm. There are Hand and Machine Quilts on display and for sale: Hand and machine quilting demonstrations, Tiny Treasures, Raffle Quilt tickets on sale, vote on your favorite challenge, Merchant Mall venue, Diane Shink- Quilt Appraiser on site, Special feature: "150 yearsof Aprons".August 7, 2009 to August 8, 2009
#42 Go Sailing...
Every Wednesday evening throughout the summer, visitors are invited to join members of the Pictou Yacht Club on their boats for an evening of friendly races. Spaces are first come, first served. Paricipation is free.
#43 Party With The Pictonians...
Started in 1934, the Pictou Lobster Carnival has become a signature event in Nova Scotia. This four day festival celebrates the end of the fishing season in the area, maritime culture and music. The event features musical performances at the Main Stage, a Beer Garden, a Mardi Gras Parade, an Antique Car Show, Derby Races, Boat Races, a Mid-Way, a Children's Parade and many other activities for the whole family. Friday, July 4th, Saturday, July 5th and Sunday, July 6th. Started in 1934, the Pictou Lobster Carnival has become a signature event in Nova Scotia. This four-day festival celebrates the end of the fishing season in the area, maritime culture and music. The event features musical performances at the Main Stage, Beer Garden, Mardi Gras Parade, Antique Car Show, Derby Races, Boat Races, lobster dinners, Mid-Way, and many other activities for the whole family. 1-877-574-2868 July 10, 2009 to July 12, 2009 www.pictoulobstercarnival.ca
#44 Joggins Fossil Centre
Located on the upper Bay of Fundy, home of the world's highest ocean tides, is Joggins, Nova Scotia. This beautiful seaside community experiences the awesome tidal forces of the Atlantic Ocean as its waters rise and fall in excess of 15 metres (47 feet) twice daily. This great force of nature; combined with efforts of area coal miners, has led to the amazing discovery of "coal age" fossils in the sea cliffs below the community. With careful observation visitors may discover fossils on the beach that had fallen from the cliffs and view the spectacular multi-hued sedimentary layers that define over 300 million years of Earth's geological past.The coastal cliffs at Joggins reveal the most complete fossil record of terrestrial life in the "Coal Age". One of the most significant events in the history of life on earth was the evolution of reptiles which developed the ability to reproduce on land; this evolutionary milestone was first observed at Joggins. No where else in the world has provided as much evidence of the nature of the earliest reptiles, or has provided more informative specimens for linking them to their more primitive ancestors.902-251-2618 www.creda.net/~jfcliffs.
orial Park Campground over the French River and along the shores of the Waugh River, passing historical sites along the way, such as the Tatamagouche Creamery and the Old Inter-Colonial Railway Station.
#49 Take A Day Trip Towards Cape Breton
Drive the Ceiledh Trail and stop and have lunch at the Red Shoe Pub in Mabou (and maybe luck into an afternoon performance of a local fiddler!) www.redshoepub.com
#50 River John Quilt and Craft Sale
July 22nd to 25th, 2009 at St. George's Presbyterian Church Hall in River John. Wed, Thurs, Fri 9am-5pm; Sat 9am-4pm. Many beautiful quilts and crafts. Contact Anita Clarke at (902) 351-2337 or [email protected]
July 22, 2009 to July 25, 2009
#51 Appreciate AWEsome Park...
AWEsome Park stands for A(griculture), W(idlife), E(ducation). Because this 12-hectare park combines woodland and wetland sanctuaries, it includes 7 duck ponds as well as a forest nesting area.To enter the site, visitors must pass through the "kissing gate". The trail immediately leads along Chickadee Walk, where several multi-coloured bird boxes form something resembling a condo development for the chickadees which summer here. Other segments of the main trail are named Peepers Pond, Robins Run, The Green Forest, Woodchuck Way, Serena's Bridge and Rainbow Row. See if you can spot the features which inspired the names.
#52 Visit the Anne Murray Centre in Springhill.
Anne Murray grew up in the small Nova Scotia coal mining town of Springhill, far, far away from the glitter and glamour of Hollywood. Yet her breathtaking flight to fame has made Anne Murray a household name in entertainment capitals of the world, and she has amassed more musical awards and accolades than almost any female singer in history. www.annemurraycentre.com Now, you can see firsthand the incomparable mix of awards, photographs, memorabilia and audio-visual highlights of Anne Murray's life and career in a series of award winning, three-dimensional displays at the Anne Murray Centre in downtown Springhill.
#53 Spend The Day In The Shade...
My personal favourite...borrow a couple of our portable lawn chairs, a few books from our libraryand head over to nearby Caribou Beach. The shady bluff overlooks Pictou Island and both PEI and Cape Breton can be seen on a clear day. Moving one's chair slightly to the left can easily change this to "# 54 - Spend The Day In The Sunshine", if that is where your preferences lie.
#54 Victorian Lavender Festival
Come celebrate the sights, smells and tastes of lavender. Enjoy live classical music, lavender u-pick, crafting with lavender, art exhibit & sale, lavender products and demonstrations. Free admission. Usually held in late July. Check their website for 2009's date.
#55 Ward's Falls Hiking Trails
This 6 km trail leads through a temperate mixed forest to a magnificent canyon and waterfall. The trail, which crosses the Ramshed River several times, is within the capabilities of most trail users. Experienced hikers may climb into the canyon, though this excursion can be dangerous and is not recommended for novices. The hike will take an hour and a half to two hours. The key feature of the site is the falls, a cavern that has been worn away by 10,000 years of hydrological friction on the fault between the Cobequid uplands and the Basalt headlands.
For Numbers 56 through 98 click here .
