Festivals and Events
Festivals & Events
Annapolis Royal’s vibrant calendar of festivals and events brings our community to life year-round. From beloved local traditions to lively cultural celebrations, each gathering adds to the spirit, creativity, and connection that define our town. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong resident, there’s always something to look forward to.
You can also view the full Community Calendar here.
Rare and Unusual Plant Weekend
Annapolis Royal: Atlantic Canada’s Plant Paradise – For One Day Only!
Each May, Annapolis Royal becomes the ultimate destination for plant enthusiasts across Atlantic Canada and beyond. The beloved Rare & Unusual Plant Sale takes over the Annapolis Royal Farmers’ Market from 1–4 pm, bringing together up to 18 exceptional nurseries from Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and even a vendor from Peru! Gardeners travel from as far as Ontario to browse this unique collection of rare, hardy, and hard-to-find plants — all in one charming location.
Admission is free, with ample parking, and the town will be bursting into bloom with magnolias, spring colour, and the award-winning Historic Gardens open to visitors.
To learn more or register for the seminar, contact Jill at jill@bunchberrynurseries.ca or call 902-532-7777.
Rain or shine — we’ll see you in the garden!
Annapolis Royal Easter Eggstravaganza
The Saturday of Easter Weekend
Fort Anne National Historic Site
Phone: 902-532-2043
Hop Into Spring at Fort Anne!Bring the whole family for one of Nova Scotia’s largest Easter egg hunts — with over 10,000 eggs hidden across the historic grounds of Fort Anne! A beloved local tradition that blends fun, community, and a dash of history, this event is sure to delight kids of all ages. Don’t forget your basket!
Farmers & Traders Market
Saturday Mornings May 22nd to October 9th 9:00 am - 1:00 pm
Market Square, 178 Lower St. George Street
Local trades and farmers gather to sell their produce, crafts, and collectibles. Live entertainment most Saturday markets.Annapolis Royal House & Garden Tour
Phone: (902) 532-7018
Website: http://www.exploreourgardens.com/
Visit special private gardens and houses in and around Annapolis Royal, a National Winner of Communities in Bloom, and participate in special tours of the Historic Gardens. All in support of the Historic Gardens.Canada Day Celebrations
Annually on July 1st
Phone: (902) 532-2043
Canada Day in Annapolis RoyalJoin us as we celebrate our nation’s birthday with live music, family-friendly entertainment, and the community’s biggest birthday cake! A festive day filled with pride, joy, and togetherness in the heart of historic Annapolis Royal.
Annapolis Royal Natal Days
Check our Facebook page for the latest updates and event details.
Phone: (902) 532-2043
Website: https://www.facebook.com/annapolisroyalnataldays
Natal Days in Annapolis RoyalFour days of vibrant celebrations for all ages! Enjoy kids’ activities, live music, evening entertainment, parades, fireworks, and more. It’s a community tradition you won’t want to miss. Check our Facebook page for the latest updates and event details.
FODAR – Festival of Dance Annapolis Royal
Every August
Website: http://fodar.ca/
Festival of Dance Annapolis Royal (FODAR)Atlantic Canada’s only summer contemporary dance festival, FODAR brings Canada’s top companies, dancers, and choreographers to the stage for bold, unforgettable performances in the heart of our historic town.
Paint the Town
August
Website: http://www.facebook.com/paintthetownannapolis/
Paint the TownFor decades, artists and the community have gathered in Annapolis Royal on the third weekend in August for Paint the Town. Over time, this tradition has expanded into a biennial rotation, with Paint The Town Symposium, a conference for rural artists and small business owners to gather and share ideas, held in odd years and standard Paint the Town Festival, a plein air celebration of creativity and community culminating in a silent art auction, being held in even years.
ARCAC & ARTsPLACE Gallery
Annapolis Royal Winter Farmers Market
Every Saturday morning, 9-12 from mid-October to mid-May
At the Port Royal Legion Branch #21 in Annapolis Royal
When the chill sets in, the charm of Annapolis Royal’s famous outdoor Farmers & Traders Market doesn’t go into hibernation—it simply moves indoors! Join us at the Legion over the winter months for all your favourite local vendors, fresh produce, handmade goods, and cozy community vibes—no sunscreen required. For Market information, call (902) 532-7018Christmas in Annapolis Royal
Begins late November
Phone: (902) 532-2043
Christmas in Annapolis RoyalStep into a real-life Hallmark movie as our historic town transforms into a festive wonderland. The magic begins with the twinkling Parade of Lights and continues with the O’Dell Museum’s Victorian Christmas, charming theatre performances, late-night shopping, holiday craft markets, visits from Santa, and so much more. Call around our historic B&B's -some offer victorian Christmas vacay packages. A heartwarming celebration for all ages!
