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 the 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 while you explore the province. There’s also a bonus out-of-province idea at the end!
Nova Scotia October Road Trip Ideas
Mahone Bay Scarecrow Festival | September 26 – October 13, 2025
Watch the beautiful town of Mahone Bay come to life with over 250 hand-made, life-size scarecrows.
Kentville Pumpkin People | October 4 – 26, 2025
Join in the Fall festivities at the famous ‘Kentville Pumpkin People Festival’. You will find hundreds of quirky pumpkin heads around town awaiting your arrival. This year’s theme is Haunted Hollywood.
RiverBreeze Fall Festival | September – November 1, 2025
If you’re heading towards Truro, visit RiverBreeze to lost in their giant corn maze, pick the perfect pumpkin, or explore over 30 exciting attractions.
Amherst Esther Fest | October 17 – 18, 2025
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 10 – 18, 2025
Celtic Colours celebrates Cape Breton’s unique culture with music, storytelling, and breathtaking scenery.
Pictou’s HarvFEST | October 25, 2025
HarvFEST on the Harbour is back for another year. From 2 – 6 pm, there will be free family fun including face painting, bouncy houses, smores and firepits, and more! There will also be a vendor village and Pumpkin Glow Up.
Bonus Out of Province:
Charlottetown Scarecrow Festival | October 3 – 31, 2025
With the newly reduced ferry and Confederation Bridge rates, road trips to PEI are a little lighter on you wallet. Take a weekend trip to Charlottetown for their Scarecrow Festival, where hundreds of whimsical scarecrow displays will pop up on across the city.
