Discover the wonders of Antigonish and its surrounding areas with the Out and About Antigonish book! This guidebook showcases over 50 must-visit destinations, from quaint towns to breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether you want to hike through the stunning Cape George Trail, take a stroll through historic downtown Antigonish, or explore the charming communities of Guysborough and Pictou, this book has got you covered. With detailed maps, insider tips, and stunning photography, Out and About Antigonish is the perfect companion for exploring the best of this picturesque region. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable adventure – grab your copy today!
The 2nd Edition of Out and About Antigonish has arrived and is available at the Curious Cat Tea and Books and Antigonish 5-$ on Main Street, Antigonish.
The Antigonish Highland Games 2021 is being celebrated with Highland Heritage Week this year presented by the Antigonish Highland Society. It is wonderful to hear the pipes again and to have virtual dances and music throughout the week.
Program
Clan Thompson Pipe Band entertained us on a wet and windy day at the Antigonish Legion. Such a pleasure to see and hear the pipes again in Antigonish.
Click to watch the Highland Dancing at Chisholm Park with MacLeod School of Highland Dance
A lovely drive from Antigonish is along HWY 337. Pass rolling farmland with so many shades of green and tantalizing views of the ocean as you pass Mahoney’ Beach. As you approach Ballantyne’s Cove there is a lookout on your right.
The Fish ‘N Ships kiosk opened for the summer and the feast of fish and chips was delicious. A great selection of ice cream also available. We took our plates over to the pebble beach behind the Tuna Interpretive Centre. Such a beautiful peaceful spot. Just one other person on the beach.
Great place for a beach walk looking for colorful pebbles, or a paddle or a swim. I recommend beach shoes for the pebbles.
Explore Antigonish and the surrounding areas. This is a wonderful gift for newcomers, staff, family and friends. Antigonish Town, excursions within 2 hrs, day trips, outdoor recreation, hiking, history, culture, beaches, trails, nature and more.
Out and About Antigonish — Antigonish Town, excursions within 2 hrs, day trips, outdoor recreation, hiking, history, culture, beaches, trails, nature and more. By Denise Davies
Reviews
Out and About Antigonish showcases the beauty of Northern Nova Scotia. It shares our story with visitors through many incredible pictures. I would encourage visitors and residents alike to pick up this book and challenge themselves to visit our communities and enjoy all of the authentic experiences we have to offer.
Cindy MacKinnon, Managing Director Destination Eastern and Northumberland Shores
“Denise Davies has created a masterful reference tool for both locals and tourists alike with her Out and About Antigonish guidebook. With excellent directions and descriptions for myriad day trips within a two-hour jaunt from Antigonish, the traveler’s most difficult decision will be which adventure to pursue first. Chock-full of beautiful photographs and succinct descriptions of each waypoint, Out and About Antigonish will help the traveler decide which spots to visit, and ensure no hidden gems are overlooked. History buffs and photographers will find this tool especially helpful. I highly recommend this superior book!”
Dave Belt Owner, Seafoam Lavender Company & Gardens Seafoam, Nova Scotia
Out and About Antigonish is a superb and long-awaited guide to Antigonish and its surrounding counties. While it will particularly attract the growing number of tourists to northeastern Nova Scotia, there is much here for locals to learn about and enjoy. As a “come-from-away” (a mere fourteen years ago), I have made a point of exploring the many highlights of my new home. Yet I found in Denise Davies’s new book a feast of fresh information and excursions to look forward to.
None of this is surprising, because as readers we are in the hands of a highly experienced travel writer and a superb photographer. I counted over 150 photos, almost all in full colour and of the highest quality. Denise has also included an abundance of maps to supplement her descriptions. This makes it extremely easy for the newcomer to follow the wonderful array of trips and trails on offer. She has also kept her descriptions succinct, though never overly so, and there are links to a wealth of websites that allow for further exploration. This is especially appropriate given the depth of northern Nova Scotia’s cultural, political and economic history.
Denise achieves an admirable balance in tackling Antigonish and its environment’s rich tapestry of nature and culture, rural and maritime life. The arts and culture, museums and markets, prominent institutions including St Francis Xavier University and Coady Institute, the many beaches and other recreational spots are, each one of them, more than adequately covered, and I could find not one omission.
Denise Davies is to be congratulated on producing such a beautiful and informative work.
John Graham-Pole, Publisher. HARP the People’s Press
Out and About Antigonish – Book SOLD OUT
Explore Antigonish and the surrounding areas. This is a wonderful gift for newcomers, staff, family and friends. Antigonish Town, excursions within 2 hrs, day trips, outdoor recreation, hiking, history, culture, beaches, trails, nature and more.
As the cool days close in the warmth of gift-giving is in the air. This year while you are looking for that special something, consider shopping local. We have so much bounty available to us from local producers, crafters, artists and local shops.
Your money goes much farther when you shop local. Buying a thoughtful gift that is made
locally, or something sold in a local shop has a huge benefit in your
community. That money goes back into the
community and has a multiplier effect.
Here are a few gift ideas to get you started.
Check out the Antigonish Farmers Market and local gift shops for unique items that can be combined to make a gift basket – or given individually as hostess gifts, stocking stuffers or placed under the tree. These could include preserves jams and jellies, wine or spirits, cheeses, honey, maple or blueberry syrup, a pottery mug, a wooden cheese board, a pewter opener, a pate’ or cheese knife – you are only limited by your imagination! Steinhart, Peace by Chocolate, Havercort Maple, Cornect Honey and more. Farmers Market, Grannie’s Antiques.
Another themed approach for your gift basket is select self
care items – soaps, lotions, bath salts, aromatherapy, lavender sachet, creams
and gels and cosmetics. The Farmers
Market, Happenstance, The Posh Peppermint, The Plum Tree are great places to
check out as you create your gift basket.
Add your suggestions in the comments.
For the kids in your life – hand made wooden toys are
durable and will last to become a family heirloom. Check out Venluke Hand Crafted Wooden Toys at
the Farmers Market. Knitted and crocheted toques, vests, socks, scarfs are
great for all ages. Cuddly animals will be a hit for children (my Mom loves
them too!).
A Few Photos of designers, producers, crafters and artists in Antigonish
Local galleries and markets offer an array of art to suit all budgets. Our area is home to gifted artists in all mediums. Art works range from large paintings in the original, prints matted and framed, photography and gift cards. You will find sculptures from wood, iron, metalwork, pottery and ceramics. Red Sky Gallery, Down to Earth Gallery, Granny’s Antiques, Through Rodney’s Eye, Felt Like Painting, Farmers Market.
Peruse the 5c to $1 and Cole’s Books for books by Nova
Scotia authors to suit all ages from kids to adults. Enjoy selecting from a range
of written and illustrated books that will be a long-held treasure. We have an amazing number of Antigonish
authors – Check the 5c to $1 to find a great selection.
A Gift Certificate for dinner at a local restaurant, or for
an overnight getaway to a cozy Inn or a night on the town would make a welcome
gift. Organize tickets to a local
production or a gift certificate to buy on a time of their choice to enjoy a local
theatre production or musical event. A
gift certificate from a local store, or for an art class or workshop are also
possibilities. To mention just a few –
Gabriaus, The Brownstone, The Townhouse, The Bauer Theatre, membership at The
Keppoch, SeaWind Landing. Add your
suggestions in the comments.
We have many talented local jewelry designers. Rings, necklaces, brooches, earrings, from
modern abstract designs to Nova Scotia and cultural heritage designs all bring
joy to the wearer. Check the Farmers
Market, Happenstance, Posh Peppermint and the Plum Tree.
Traditional crafts such as quilting and fabric art create
beautiful treasures for the wall, the table or to cozy up on a bed or as a lap
blanket for watching TV. A quilt can be
a gift for any age and treasured forever.
Maybe a sheepskin for a favorite chair.
Farmers Market
Winter favorite gifts for apparel ideas include sweaters,
shawls, capes and scarfs, mitts, hats and leg warmers. Think soft warm and attractive colors. Maybe a sheepskin for a favorite chair, or
sheepskin slippers. Felted and Fleeced
Creative Designs, Brook Ridge Farm,
Find unique and beautiful items for all ages and shop local.
Take a stroll around town, visit the Farmers Market, shop online with local
producers and hand crafters and artists, and give a gift that has local meaning
and local impact to merchants, producers, crafters and artists.
I’m sure you have suggestions for other gifts and shops. Please feel free to add in the comments. It wasn’t possible to add every designer, artist and producer or shop. We have a wealth of possibilities. Happy Gift Giving and Shop Local!
Arts and culture in its many forms is a pillar of community life in Antigonish where all ages participate. The arts are important in continuing to keep up traditions and have enabled young people and established artists to stay in the community rather than moving away. This small town in northeastern Nova Scotia punches above its weight in the arts. Stroll around town and enjoy the wonderful art scene.
Arts
on Main
A stroll along Main Street is a great way to start
exploring the visual arts in Antigonish.
Grab a coffee or fresh locally made baking and lunch specials at the Tall and Small Café, a popular laid-back hangout. Browse the latest art exhibit from local artists. Exhibits change monthly. https://www.facebook.com/antigonishtown/
As you continue down Main Street, be sure to visit the Red Sky Gallery, the newest Antigonish art gallery. The curator, Rosemary Curry, will be happy to show you around. When asked about the name “Red Sky Gallery” Rosemary replied “I don’t think there is anyone who hasn’t paused and taken a moment to fall in love with a red sky. I think we all fall for a red sky at some point when it’s just right for us. And the art we fall in love with is kind of the same. “The gallery is a wonderful space to enjoy local and regional art – photographs, oils and watercolors, pottery, sculpture in contemporary and more. Featured artists include works by Anna Syperek, a realist printmaker and painter, Linda Johns with her metaphorical paintings and sculptures, and Kath Kornelson Rutherford’s mezzotint works. The open space design and peaceful welcoming atmosphere has made this a not to be missed spot on your art walk. Upcoming shows include “Home Coming” – with artists from StFX University alumni, and popup shops of fashion and jewelry during the fall. https://www.facebook.com/Red-Sky-Gallery-239919850108535/
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The next stop is the People’s Place – Antigonish Town and County Library. Opened in 2011 it has become a hub of community life. Twenty-two local artist works were commissioned in the design including the colorful hanging silk art panels on nature theme in the Bistro area by Anne Camozzi, the large mural of Mi’kmaq children fishing by Alan Syliboy, the tapestry by Murray Gibson in collaboration with the L’Arche community, and many other interior and exterior art works. Pick up the Artist and Artisan Guide from the PARL website. The Bistro area has a monthly changing exhibit by local artists. In July the GoArts Gathering of the Arts is jam packed with art and entertainment. http://www.parl.ns.ca/locations/antigonish.php
Continue on Main Street to the Down to Earth Art Gallery featuring art by Alan Syliboy, a renowned Mi’kmaq artist, J. Franklin Wright – specializing in marine art. Kate Brown Georgallas landscapes and etchings are inspired by rural life in Nova Scotia, and her murals are found around town including the mural over the main desk at The People’s Place http://www.downtoearth.ca/
The Kirk
Gallery, on the corner of Church and Main Street displays a changing
exhibit by artists and photographers.
Head up to the St Francis Xavier University home to 3 art gallery areas on campus. The StFX Art Gallery on the 1st floor of Bloomfield Center features a permanent collection and changing exhibits, talks and concerts. The McNeil Gallery in beautiful Schwartz School of Business displays changing exhibits. The Student Success Gallery in the Angus L. MacDonald Library features the best of student art. The fall Arts Gala is a special event with live auctions, artists painting and sculpting on site, and a fun social time with artists and art aficionados. http://www2.mystfx.ca/art-gallery/exhibitions
During the summer a bi-weekly Antigonish Art Fair is held in Chisholm Park. This is a wonderful place to talk to artists with displays of their art work. Enjoy the music and entertainment, a children’s corner and food trucks with international and local tasty treats. Art classes and workshops are offered at the Art House. http://antigonishartfair.ca/
Subscribe to see following articles on the Performing Arts and Arts organizations in Antigonish
Antigonish is eagerly anticipating the arrival of the Special Olympics athletes, their coaches, supporters and families.
The athletes and coaches will be housed on the St. Francis Xavier (StFX) campus and the majority of the athletic events will also take place on campus except for the softball and golf events.
There has been amazing community support with over one thousand volunteers. The events, except for the ticketed opening ceremony are open to the public at no charge. Come and view and cheer on the Special Olympics Athletes who are participating from all over Canada.
Several events have been planned to have the participants experience the hospitality and unique experiences of Antigonish and Nova Scotia.
Find out what’s going on at www.so2018.ca and you can also follow the events live on Bell Alliant. Details and links are on the Special Olympics 2018 website.
If you are tweeting and sharing on social media use the hashtag #so2018
Boats at Ballantyne’s marina
View of Ballantynes Cove from Lookout
Pomquet
Old Barn Gallery, Pomquet
Cape George Lighthouse, Antigonish County
Crescent beach Arisaig
Colombus Field, Antigonish
Antigonish Heritage Museum Ceilidh
The Antigonish Farmers Market
While you are in the area enjoy exploring Antigonish and the surrounding areas.
What about an afternoon drive out to Ballantyne’s Cove. Heading out on Hwy 337N from Antigonish, past the Hospital from the end of Main Street you pass through luscious farmlands with views of the ocean. Then up hill and down dale with wildflowers along the roadside and occasional views of the Northumberland shore. Just as you reach Ballantyne’s Cove stop at the lookout for a spectacular view of the cove, St. George’s Bay and Cape George beyond. You can use the map there to identify some of the places that you see including Cape Breton on the horizon.
Stroll around the marina and look at the Tuna fishing boats and pleasure boats. Learn about Tuna and Tuna fishing at the Tuna Interpretive Centre. Find some amazing facts about Tuna that have been caught in the area, the largest was over 1400 pounds. The Tuna season runs from August through October. Several tuna sport fishing charters are based here.
Boats at Ballantyne’s marina
Fish ‘N Ships
Ballantynes Cove Beach
Ballantynes Cove Tuna Interpretive Centre
Boats at Ballantyne’s marina
View of Ballantynes Cove from Lookout
Behind the Interpretive Centre take a short walk to a crescent pebble beach perfect for dabbling your toes in the warm waters of St. George’s Bay, sunbathing and beach combing.
Enjoy a feed of Fish and Chips from Fish ‘N Ships. Or select one of their burgers or an ice cream.
More Information
Directions: Take Hwy 337N (past the hospital) 30 minutes along the Sunrise Trail.
Stroll along Main Street Antigonish and enjoy the summer art scene. Antigonish is well known as a hub for the arts.
Red Sky Gallery. Visit this newest art gallery for a refreshing exhibit of local and Nova Scotia artists. Paintings and drawings, pottery, jewelry, sculpture. 320 Main Street.
Down to Earth Art Gallery. Featuring art by Alan Syliboy, J. Franklin Wright, Kate Brown Georgallas and more. 240 Main Street.
Tall and Small. Great coffee shop with baked goods and lunches. Monthly changing exhibit by artists and non-profit groups. 342-2 Main Street.
The People’s Place Antigonish Town and County Library. Monthly changing art exhibits by local artists. Commissioned art work in and outside of the library. Look for the silk banners in the bistro area, murals and art pieces. 283 Main Street.
Antigonish Art Fair. Summer art fair with artists, artisans, food and entertainment every second Friday during the summer. June 20, July 6, 20, August 3, 17. Chisholm Park with rain location at the new legions, St. Ninian Street. 6:30 – 9:00 PM
Grannies Antiques and Gifts. At the east end of town. Antiques and collectibles. 7 Adam Street.
