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The Nova Scotia lobster season starts on the last Monday in November (weather permitting). It is over at the end of May. The Pictou Lobster Carnival began in 1934 and will be enjoying its 90th year of celebration. This will be happening on July 5, 6 and 7, 2024.
There will be over 20 family fun activities and over 15 entertainment acts in one fabulous weekend! And much of it is free!
Pictou Attractions
Hector Heritage Quay
Hector Heritage Quay gives you a glimpse into the journey of the first Scottish settlers aboard the ship Hector, the beginning of Nova Scotia’s Scottish history.
Fisheries Museum
Fisheries Museum is where the rich history of the fishing industry is preserved, giving you an insight into the lives of those who have worked the sea.
McCullough Genealogy Center
McCullough Genealogy Center is a treasure trove of local history, genealogy and the diverse culture that has shaped Nova Scotia.
Pictou Market & Vendor Village
Pictou Market and Vendor Village are summertime markets where you can find unique items to remember your stay in Pictou.
Races & Contests
The Carnival will have a boat race with divisions and prizes up to $400. The King Lobster Bounty has a $500 prize. Take your lobster to Soboys in Pictou. They will weigh it, take a picture of it and record your information.
Live Entertainment
There will be live entertainment each day of the Carnival.
Entertainment Schedule
Friday, July 5
- Matt Mays
- Slowcoaster
- Jud Gunning
- Albert Dunnewold
Saturday, July 6
Sunday, July 7
- The Hello Darlins
- Rum Ragged
- Morgan Toney
- Hal Bruce
- County Connections
Lobster Dinners
There will be Lobster Dinners at the New Caledonian Curling Club on
- Friday – 4 pm to 6 pm
- Saturday – 10 am to 8 pm
- Sunday – Sold Out
Additional Festivities
The Carnival also features a Mardi Gras Parade, children’s parade, antique car show, carnival rides, derby races, fireworks over the waterfront, bruskers, children’s pageant, Pictou County Youth Songwriter Showcase and more.
Nova Scotia Cuisine
If you like the lobster and other food you enjoyed at the Carnival and would like to learn more about cooking Nova Scotia favorites, try these cookbooks. You can use our links to see how you can save money.
- Out Of Nova Scotia Kitchens: Best Loved East Coast Dishes For Today by Craig Flinn
- A Rising Tide: A Cookbook of Recipes & Stories from Canada’s Atlantic Coast by D. L. Acken and Emily Lycopolus
- Out Of Old Nova Scotia Kitchens by Marie Nightingale
Visiting Pictou
If you’re visiting Pictou for the Lobster Carnival, here are houses, condos, apartments and other rental units that might be perfect for your trip. Take a look at these rental options.
RVs
Many people like to go to festivals in RVs. It does have its advantages. You don’t have an RV? Then you can rent one and Green Vacation Deals recommends RVShare.
About Pictou
Pictou, Nova Scotia, is within 130 kilometers (80 miles) of New Glasgow, Montague, Oxford, Amhurst, Inverness, Dartmouth, Kensington, Port Hawkesbury, Charlottetown, Souris and Parrsboro. Pictou is 132 kilometers (82 miles) from Halifax.