Fall Events in Nova Scotia

The leaves are turning colour, the air feels crisp and pumpkin spice treats are everywhere—which can only mean one thing: fall has arrived in Nova Scotia. Whether you’re a local or you're sailing into the province aboard The CAT, Northumberland Ferries or MV Fundy Rose, there are countless seasonal events waiting for you.

One of the South Shore’s most beloved autumn events is the Mahone Bay Scarecrow Festival. Here, you can find life-sized scarecrows hanging out all around town, all within a five-minute stroll. From classic designs to iconic characters and famous faces like Taylor Swift, Waldo and Cruella De Vil, someone will be welcoming you at every corner. In addition to these creative figures, the festival’s programming also includes an annual pie contest, yard sales, open houses, community breakfasts and a chance to cheer on the homemade boats in the Toy Boat Squadron. Each year, the festival welcomes thousands of visitors and is a sure sign that fall has arrived in Nova Scotia.

Another fun fall event in Nova Scotia is the Pumpkin People Festival in Kentville. Make your way to the Annapolis Valley and be welcomed by all the people—pumpkin version! Every fall, over 300 Pumpkin People pop up all around town for you to meet. And this year’s theme? Haunted Hollywood! Get ready for a whole red carpet experience. The displays and set-ups are quite the sight, so don’t forget your camera for some photo-ops with all the stars.

Lively fall fun awaits for art lovers at the Celtic Colours International Festival. For 9 days each year, Cape Breton Island transforms into a place of Celtic celebration through music, art, dance and community. Find workshops, musical performances, art exhibits and so much more. Plus, Cape Breton has some of the most stunning autumn landscapes, full of gold and crimson foliage at this time of year. Add this one to your calendar and get out your toe-tapping shoes!

Another highly anticipated event for art lovers is Nocturne’s Art at Night festival in Halifax. This year’s theme is Nocturne: Ground and will feature art installations and performances throughout the downtown core, turning the city into an immersive outdoor gallery. This unique festival comes alive after sunset, bringing together the local arts community to share their talents and creativity. Experience the city in a whole new light. 
 

We’re counting down the days to Devour! The Food Film Fest, celebrating its 15th anniversary as the world’s largest culinary film festival. Taking place in beautiful Wolfville, this world-renowned festival brings together the best in culinary cinema with amazing foodie experiences. What’s not to love about that?! You can enjoy everything from popular film screenings to pop-up events and tastings, including the much-anticipated Montreal Night Market, the Devour! Poutine Smackdown and so much more happening all week. Whether you're a local, visitor or just a fan of good food and film, this is a must-add to your October plans.
 

Nova Scotia Music Week takes over Yarmouth for four incredible days of events, workshops and over 100 live music performances. It’s a big celebration of the vibrant music scene in Nova Scotia, spotlighting a huge array of the talented artists and groups from across the province. Musicians, industry professionals and devoted fans are all invited to grab a pass and be captivated by the performances and events this fall.

Are you a gamer, sci-fi fan or fantasy lover? Well, do we ever have the event for you! Hal-Con is Atlantic Canada’s biggest and geekiest sci-fi convention. This is your chance to become a part of the ultimate fan experience. Play on the gaming floor with over 100 tables in action and meet featured guests such as actor Chad Michael Murray and comic creator Dan Parent. To guarantee you meet your favourite, you can pre-order an autograph or photo-op! There will be panels, games, workshops and more geeky fun for everyone.

Whether you’re travelling on The CAT from Maine, coming aboard MV Fundy Rose from New Brunswick or sailing the Northumberland Strait from Prince Edward Island on Northumberland Ferries, fall is the perfect time to visit Nova Scotia. From music and food to festive scarecrows and pumpkin people, this season has something for everyone to enjoy. 

Getting here is easy with our ferry services—make your reservation today and experience the beauty and fun of fall in Nova Scotia.

Hero Image: Location: Mahone Bay Scarecrow Festival, Mahone Bay, South Shore Photo Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia / Photographer: Jessica Emin