About Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival
A spring tradition dating to 1933 in Kentville celebrating the blooming of the Annapolis Valley apple orchards. Features parades, concerts, fireworks, and community events across six days each May (May 25–30 in 2027). One of Nova Scotia's most iconic annual festivals.
Features & Highlights
Detailed Information
For over nine decades, the Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival has marked the arrival of spring in Nova Scotia with a six-day celebration that transforms the towns of the Annapolis Valley into a sea of pink and white blossoms, community spirit, and family-friendly festivities. Running from May 25 to May 30, 2027, the festival carries on a spring tradition that dates to 1933 — a tribute to the volunteers, businesses, youth leaders, artists, and families whose collective efforts weave together the vibrant tapestry of this cherished annual celebration. Drawing approximately 100,000 spectators to its Grand Street Parade alone, the Apple Blossom Festival is one of Atlantic Canada's largest and most anticipated community events, celebrating the region's rich agricultural heritage and the breathtaking beauty of the Valley's apple orchards in full bloom.
Practical Information
Location & Venues
The festival spans multiple communities throughout the Annapolis Valley, with Kentville serving as the central hub. Key venues include:
- Main Street, Kentville — Parade route and festival hub
- 125 Park Street, Kentville — Blossom Bash and Fireworks
- Kentville Centre Square — Vendor markets and community events
- Various venues across the Valley from Windsor to Digby
2027 Festival Dates
May 25 (Tuesday) – May 30 (Sunday)
Key Events
- Blossom Bash and Fireworks (FREE) — live entertainment and the festival's fireworks display over Kentville
- Children's Parade (FREE) — a joyful procession of local youth, decorated bicycles, and community groups
- Grand Street Parade (FREE) — the longest-running parade in Atlantic Canada, drawing close to 100,000 spectators
- Blossom with BWIE (FREE) — family-friendly programming for young festival-goers
- Various community events, concerts, orchard tours, food truck parties, and vendor markets throughout the six days
- See appleblossom.com for the full 2027 schedule and event times
Ticket Information
Most events are FREE and open to the public. Some concerts and special events may require tickets. Check appleblossom.com for the full schedule and any ticket information.
Parking
Street parking and designated lots available in Kentville. Road closures are in effect during parades — consult the official detour maps on the festival website.
Accessibility
The festival provides accessible seating areas for parades. Contact the festival directly for specific accessibility needs.
Contact Information
Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival
325 Main Street, Unit 8, Kentville, NS B4N 1K5
Phone: (902) 678-8322
Website: appleblossom.com
The Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival is more than just a spring celebration — it's a cherished Nova Scotia institution that has brought communities together since 1933. Whether you're watching the parade with a hundred thousand of your closest friends, enjoying the fireworks over Kentville, or simply driving through the Valley to admire the blossoms, this festival offers an authentic taste of Nova Scotian community spirit that shouldn't be missed.