Highland dancers perform at the Celtic Colours International Festival © Nova Scotia Tourism Agency
January
Eagle watch
Hundreds of bald eagles come to an area between Wolfville, Kentville and the Bay of Fundy between late November and March. On a weekend in late January, food is set out in some fields near the village of Sheffield Mills to entice these magnificent birds into snapping range.
February
Bully-off
Ice Hockey – here it is just ‘Hockey’ – is Canada’s national sport. The pride of the province are the Halifax Mooseheads who had an amazing 2012/13 season. Watch one of their home games at the Halifax Metro Centre. If you can borrow some skates, do a few rounds of the outdoor ice track at the Emera Oval.
March
There goes a goose
You don’t need to be a birdwatcher to enjoy the spectacle of thousands of Brent geese taking to the skies each evening from the flats of the Hawk Channel on Cape Sable Island.
April
Halifax comedy festival
Contribute to the explosion of titters, giggles, sniggers and guffaws at this four-day comedy festival.
May
Apple blossom time
Late May is the time to head for the Annapolis Valley and delight in a profusion of pretty pink and white petals. French colonists introduced apple trees to the area over 400 years ago. Instead of Highway 101, explore the valley by the old main road, Highway 1, or by parallel Highways 201 and 221.
June
Take the Cabot Trail
It may sound like a hike, but the Cabot Trail is actually one of the world’s most scenic drives. The 300km route leads you to some of Cape Breton Island’s most stunning scenery: soaring cliffs, salmon-packed rivers, beautiful beaches and much more. One of the best places in the province to spot a moose. You’ll also pass some of Canada’s best golf courses, not to mention some fascinating museums and historical sites.
July
A whale of a time
A whale watching tour should be at the top of your list of activities on your Nova Scotia holiday. The best departure points are the Digby Neck on the Bay of Fundy, and north eastern Cape Breton Island. On most tours, expect to see not only giant humpbacks, sometimes almost close enough to touch, but also other Atlantic marine wildlife including seals and sea birds.
August
Tour and taste
Visit some of the province’s top wineries – and, of course, sip some of their produce. The university town of Wolfville makes a good base, and if you don’t want to drive, hop on the Magic Winery Bus which operates Friday to Sunday.
September
Explore Keji
The ‘bugs’ have gone and the forest, lakes, waterways and trails of Kejimkujik National Park are just waiting for you! Rent a canoe or kayak, or travel on foot or by bike. There are parking areas at all the trail heads.
October
Celtic Colours International Festival
Head to beautiful Cape Breton Island to be inspired by this joyous festival celebrating not just the best of Celtic music and culture, but also nature’s wondrous displays of autumn foliage. Tap your feet – or, better still, dance – at a ceilidh, and marvel at the spectacular scenery.
November
Movies and munchies
Wolfville’s Devour festival pairs cinema and cuisine: foodie film screenings, wine tastings, chef demonstrations and special dinners salute the best local produce in film and fact.
December
The festive season
Come and experience a Victorian Christmas in historic Annapolis Royal. Packed full of delightful buildings, the town – first named Port Royal by the French four centuries ago – was Nova Scotia’s capital until 1749. Enjoy how Christmas would have been celebrated in days of yore at the town’s O’Dell Museum.