This mild fall has been one for the record books. Not only does it offer the chance to get outside and attend activities around HRM, but it also provides opportunities to explore Nova Scotia and take in the colourful sights of the season, thanks to the clear skies and roads.
The bright red and yellow trees of the Wentworth Valley, the Blomidon Lookoff, or the Cabot Trail will entice you to pack snacks and supplies and head out on the road, either for an afternoon or the weekend. Festivals celebrating the end-of-season harvest, Autumn colours, or the spookiness of the month are taking place across the province. Check out the list below for great October road trip destinations and explore the province. There’s also a bonus out-of-province idea at the end!
Ready to Make Weekend Plans?
Mahone Bay Scarecrow Festival | September 25 – October 12, 2026
Watch the beautiful town of Mahone Bay come to life with over 250 hand-made, life-size scarecrows.
Kentville Pumpkin People | October 3-25, 2026
Join in the Fall festivities at the famous Kentville Pumpkin People Festival, with hundreds of quirky pumpkin heads on display around town. This year’s theme is “Witches, Wizards, and Warlocks”.
RiverBreeze Fall Festival | September 19 – November 1, 2026
If you’re heading towards Truro, make a visit to RiverBreeze to get lost in the giant corn maze, pick the perfect pumpkin, or explore 30-plus exciting attractions.
Amherst Esther Fest | October 21-31, 2026
To get a real fright this October, head to Amherst for Esther Fest, an annual celebration of the paranormal, inspired by The Great Amherst Mystery.
Cape Breton Celtic Colours International Festival | October 9-17, 2026
Celtic Colours celebrates Cape Breton’s unique culture with music, storytelling, and breathtaking scenery.
Pictou’s HarvFEST | October 24, 2026
HarvFEST on the Harbour is back for another year. From 2 – 6 PM, there will be free family fun including face painting, bouncy houses, s’mores and firepits, and more! There will also be a vendor village and Pumpkin Glow Up.
Bonus Out of Province:
Charlottetown Scarecrow Festival | October 1-31, 2026
With the reduced ferry and Confederation Bridge rates, road trips to PEI are a little lighter on your wallet. Take a weekend trip to Charlottetown for its Scarecrow Festival, where hundreds of whimsical scarecrow displays will pop up across the city.
