Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the Nova Scotia Summer Fest 2024! Taking place from August 15th to 17th in the picturesque town of Antigonish, this festival promises three days of music, fun, and community spirit. Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, here’s everything you need to know about this exciting event.
When and Where is Nova Scotia Summer Fest 2024?
Dates: August 15-17, 2024
Location: Columbus Field, 121 Main St., Downtown Antigonish, NS
Festival Hours
The festival grounds open daily at 4:30 pm, with music and festivities starting at 5:30 pm. The final performances will vary in time, but the grounds will be cleared by approximately 12 am each night.
All-Ages Event
Nova Scotia Summer Fest is an all-ages event, making it a perfect outing for families. However, children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult at the time of entry.
Bringing Chairs and Strollers
Feel free to bring your bag chairs, but be considerate of others. If your chair is blocking someone’s view, you will be asked to move it. Strollers are also permitted, ensuring that even the youngest festival-goers can enjoy the event comfortably.
Food and Drink Policies
While outside food and drinks are not allowed, you’ll find a variety of food and beverage vendors on-site. These vendors will be available during the Nova Scotia Summer Fest Cookout and throughout the festival. There is also a designated area for alcohol, restricted to attendees aged 19 and over. Government IDs will be required to enter this area, and no outside alcohol is permitted.
Pet Policy
Pets are not allowed at the festival, with the exception of licensed seeing-eye dogs.
Re-Entry Policy
Festival-goers can enter and exit the festival grounds freely after being issued a valid festival bracelet. However, re-entry will be subject to a security clearance each time you return.
Accessibility
The festival is wheelchair accessible, with a designated entrance and exit, as well as accessible washrooms. Accessible parking is available close to the main entrance, but you must show an Accessible Parking Identification to enter this section.
What Not to Bring
To ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment, certain items are not permitted on the festival grounds. These include:
- Umbrellas
- Outside food and beverages (unless previously cleared)
- Outside alcohol and contraband
- Professional recording equipment
- Suitcases
- Cans or glass bottles
- Laser pointers
- Sports equipment (e.g., frisbees, footballs, kites)
- Portable tables
- Drones
- Weapons or items that can be used as weapons
Security staff and the onsite RCMP officer will determine the acceptability of items. If you’re unsure about an item, it’s best to leave it at home.
Security Measures
The festival grounds will have 24-hour security to ensure a safe environment for all attendees.
Tickets
Where to Purchase: Tickets are available online.
Ticket Prices: Click here for ticket prices.
Wristbands: Issued at the festival entrance.
Refund Policy: No refunds or exchanges on tickets. All sales are final.
Camping at Nova Scotia Summer Fest
Partnering with the Canadian Association for Assisted Living (CACL), the festival offers camping options for both tents and RVs.
Location: 90 St. Andrew’s Street, Antigonish, a one-minute walk to the festival entrance.
Camping Passes: Available for purchase online.
Amenities: No electrical or water hook-ups, but portable washrooms, hand-washing stations, and 24-hour security are provided.
Tenting Spot: Approximately 500 sq. ft., includes one parking pass, one camping pass for your tent, and up to six campground bracelets.
RV Spot: Approximately 800 sq. ft., includes one parking pass, one camping pass for your RV, and up to six campground bracelets.
Check-In Times:
- Thursday, August 15th from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm
- Friday, August 16th from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Check-Out Time: Sunday, August 18th by 12:00 pm.
Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed in the camping area, except for licensed seeing-eye dogs.
Accommodations
For those preferring not to camp, a list of accommodations in Antigonish and surrounding areas is available. Some options include Pictou Lodge, Cranberry Campground, Comfort Inn New Glasgow, Maritime Inn Port Hawkesbury, Fossil Farms Oceanside Retreat, and Linwood Harbour Campground.
Summer Fest Cookout
The Nova Scotia Summer Fest Cookout is a highlight of the event, offering a variety of delicious food options. For more information on the Cookout, click here.
Parking
Parking is available within walking distance of Columbus Field. Various parking lots and side streets off Downtown Main St. are accessible, including those behind East Coast Credit Union and Shoppers Drug Mart.
Accessible Parking: Available through the 90 St. Andrew’s Street entrance with an Accessible Parking Identification.
Safety and Inclusion
Nova Scotia Summer Fest prioritizes safety with an onsite First Aid Booth, local police presence, and 24-hour security. The festival also maintains a zero-tolerance policy for harassment of any kind, ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all attendees.
Get Ready for an Unforgettable Experience
With an exciting lineup of artists, a variety of food and drink options, and a welcoming community atmosphere, Nova Scotia Summer Fest 2024 is set to be an unforgettable event. Mark your calendars and get your tickets now for a summer festival experience like no other!
