Jordan Parker
It may not yet be officially summer, but this big Victoria Day long-weekend should serve as a chance to get a jump on a beautiful season.
Nova Scotia Buzz has compiled a few ideas for uniquely Nova Scotian things to do during your time. It isn’t exhaustive, but these are some of the bucket list items most locals can surely connect with and enjoy
1) Grab a lobster roll on the Northumberland Shore
Tourists and locals alike can get behind one thing – The seafood in Nova Scotia is bar none. With the Northumberland Strait’s rich bounty in season, there’s plenty of fresh lobster for all. One of our favourite places to grab a lobster roll is on the Town of Pictou’s waterfront.
Note, famous lobster spots span the province, from Dave’s Lobster Shack in Halifax to Tom’s at Peggy’s Cove, Grand Banker Seafood in Lunenburg, and the Osprey’s Nest Public House at Petite Riviere.
Finally, head to the lobster capital on N.S. in Barrington for one from Capt. Kat’s Lobster Shack.
2) Cheer on the Emera Blue Nose Marathon
This huge annual marathon shuts down downtown Halifax’s streets, but warms so many hearts. Dubbed “the people’s marathon”, it is for all ages and abilities, and happens every Victoria Day weekend. Featuring six running events over the weekend, it’s also all about community.
The Charity Challenge sees many run for their favourite organizations and non-profits, donating money they fundraise to such organizations as the IWK Foundation, Nova Scotia SPCA and more. It’s always a joy to watch these runners and get caught up in the enjoyment of the weekend.
3) Stroll your local waterfront
Whether you’re looking out towards George’s Island from the Halifax waterfront or walking along the sea in Lunenberg, being by the ocean is key to a nice long weekend.
Get your steps in, bird watch, or even bring a book with you. If you get to catch some rays and see the beautiful sights, it can be an incredible serotonin boost.
4) Check out Pier 21
The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is a tourist staple, but when’s the last time you’ve gone in as a proud Nova Scotian?
Halifax’s look at Canada’s immigration history is a magnificent, astounding trip that will have you buzzing following your entry. The current special exhibition focuses on Operation Parasol, as this year marks the 25th anniversary of the resettlement and repatriation of Kosovar refugees.
There is also a #HopeAndHealingCanada exhibition and the permanent Canadian Immigration and Pier 21 Stories.
5) Relax on the Halifax Citadel
Grab a coffee at a nearby shop and climb Halifax’s illustrious, gorgeous Citadel Hill for a relaxing day.
The Citadel overlooked and defended the harbour for the British military when they founded the town in 1749. The wooden guardhouse at the top was among the first building’s construction.
Today, you can tour the army museum, see the sentry guarding the front gate, hear the traditional noon gun, or go on a guided tour.
You’ll catch people sunbathing, reading, and exploring the top of the National Historic Site. With a coffee bar onsite and plenty of space on the fort to stretch out, it also offers a great view of Halifax’s downtown.
6) Hit up a local brewery or cider house
There are no shortage of local haunts for those seeking something special on-tap in the province. From Dartmouth’s Lake City Cider and North Brewing, you’ll also find Heritage Brewing in Yarmouth, Saltbox in Mahone Bay, Route 19 Brewing in Inverness and Sea Level in Sheffield Mills.
You can basically throw a rock and find an incredible local cider or beer, and we’d suggest finding a patio at one of them over the weekend, if weather permits. Grab a beer (or a non-alcoholic option, many stock them) and enjoy a fresh beverage on a quiet day.
7) Go to Peggys Cove
This South Shore spectacle will never cease to amaze, as long as you avoid the black rocks.
A great date or exploration adventure, it features the famous Peggys Cove Lighthouse, and this historic location in a quaint fishing village boasts a gift shop and some great surrounding restaurants and fudge.
Located an hour from Halifax, hit the highway or grab a bus tour for a unique experience.
8) Hit up Cape Breton’s world-famous Cabot Trail
The Highlands in Cape Breton are incredible. You can drive the 298 km famous Cabot Trail, but there are plenty of things to do if you’re ready to pull over or stay a while.
You can hike and camp in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, go golfing at the close-by Links, and find ways to get out and enjoy the scenery.
9) Open up the cottage
It’s often the very first beautiful weekend that’s prime for getting your cottage ready, if you have the good fortune to have one.
Taking out the furniture, getting live-in ready and ensuring things have survived a cruel winter are always important. If you can have a fire, roast some marshmallows and nab some enjoyment over the long weekend, that’s a bonus.
10) Visit a vineyard in the Annapolis Valley
The wine capital of Nova Scotia is hands-down the Annapolis Valley. With a myriad of choices, this could be the perfect escape for a fabulous getaway.
Whether it’s Benjamin Bridge, Luckett’s, Blomidon Estate, Light & Wolfville, Mercator, or any others, there are so many to choose from.
The food is top tier, the drinks are plentiful and unforgettable, and the valley is generally a beautiful place to visit.
No matter what you do on this May long weekend, enjoy yourself and be responsible. There are plenty of options for every type of person, and rain-or-shine, these options provide plenty of inspiration if you want to plan your own trip.
