Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival

The Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival was one of Nova Scotia's most cherished annual traditions, held May 27 to June 1, 2026. With the theme "The Fabric of the Valley," the festival marked the arrival of spring when the Annapolis Valley's famous apple orchards burst into a stunning canopy of pink and white blossoms, signalling the end of another Maritime winter and the promise of a new growing season. The week-long, community-driven festival was woven into the fabric of Valley life, drawing tens of thousands of visitors to the region annually.

The festival's centrepiece was the Grand Street Parade — the longest-running parade in Atlantic Canada, drawing close to 100,000 spectators along the route from New Minas to Kentville, with colourful floats, marching bands, and community groups. Equally beloved was the Children's Parade, which departed from Kentville Town Hall on Main Street in a joyful procession of local youth, decorated bicycles, and community spirit. The Blossom Bash and Fireworks Show on Friday, May 29 lit up the Valley sky, while the Ciders & Sliders event, the Black Women in Excellence (BWIE) Vendor Market, a Foam Party, and the festival's Youth Leadership Competition — evolved from a traditional crown competition into a broader leadership showcase — filled out the six-day program. Live entertainment, a street fair, food truck parties, orchard tours, and vendor markets ensured there was something for every age and interest.

Founded in 1933 to showcase the apple industry, scenic beauty, and local talent, the Apple Blossom Festival has grown into a deeply rooted community celebration that embodies the pride and hospitality of the Annapolis Valley. Most events were free and open to the public, making it one of the most accessible major festivals in Nova Scotia. The festival hub was Kentville, a charming town about an hour's drive from Halifax, surrounded by award-winning wineries, farm markets, and the dramatic shoreline of the Bay of Fundy. Beyond the festival program, visitors could explore the Valley's famous farmers' markets, hike the Cape Blomidon trails, or tour the Grand-Pré UNESCO World Heritage Site nearby.

Whether you're a longtime local or a first-time visitor, the Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival was a quintessential Nova Scotia experience. Spring doesn't officially arrive in the province until the Valley turns pink, and this festival was the perfect way to welcome the season with music, colour, and community.

Make the most of your time in Annapolis Valley - pair Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival with our Annapolis Valley Self-Drive, Family Travel Guide, and Good Cheer Trail & Wine Country guide. They're each packed with itinerary ideas, local tips, and everything you need to extend your stay.