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......

2010 Schedule of Events

February 12-13              Winter Carnival, <click here for a schedule of events>
Break out of hibernation and enjoy an outdoor activity and some indoor fun!

April 6                           Tartan Day
A celebration of all things Scottish at the Hector Exhibit Centre. An evening of food, fun and traditional music. 902-485-4563.

June 8-13                      Artisans in Action
A community celebration of fibre artists and various artisans demonstrating their traditional works and specialized skills. Visit over 20 designated local shops and museums from Tuesday to Sunday.

June 12                         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 9-11                       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. www.pictoulobstercarnival.ca

July 10                          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.

August 2                       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 13-15                 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 TBA                   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 musical showcase. 902-485-1161.

September 8-11             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 10-12           New Scotland Days
A "Living Heritage Festival" that celebrates the pioneer spirit that shaped Pictou County and Nova Scotia902-485-6057 or    http://www.townofpictou.ca/special_events.html 

September 9-10             The Ship Hector Classic
Promises to be an exceptional celebration of Scottish heritage, appropriately enough with the game of golf as the centerpiece. This is an exciting two day fundraising event taking place in September hosted by the Ship Hector Foundation. For more information call 902-485-1151. <MORE>

September 19               Terry Fox Run

October 17                    Hector Heritage Quay Closes

November 13-14             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 specialty food items to woolens. www.decostecentre.ca 

December 3                  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. For details call 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