Discover Fall in Nova Scotia

Why visit Nova Scotia in fall?

Fall is one of the most beautiful times to visit Nova Scotia, with vibrant autumn colours, scenic coastal drives, and harvest experiences across the province. Explore the Cabot Trail as forests turn shades of red, orange, and gold, stroll historic seaside towns, sample fresh seafood and local wines, or hike through colourful landscapes. From whale watching and festivals to pumpkin patches and farmers’ markets, fall offers memorable experiences throughout Nova Scotia.

Two women hiking in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, surrounded by autumn leaves.

Where are the top places to see fall colours in Nova Scotia?

Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Cabot Trail, Kejimkujik National Park & National Historic Site, Wentworth Valley, Mahone Bay, Annapolis Valley, Keppoch Mountain and Victoria Park are all top places to see fall colours.

When is the best time to see fall colours in Nova Scotia?

Fall colours in Nova Scotia typically peak from late September through October, with timing varying by region, elevation, and weather.

Fall Colours Guide Fall Colours – When to Go

Kejimkujik National Park & National Historic Site

What events are happening this fall in Nova Scotia?

Fall is one of the most vibrant times to visit Nova Scotia, with festivals, live music, cultural celebrations, food and drink events, agricultural fairs, and seasonal experiences taking place across the province. Visitors can enjoy harvest season in the Annapolis Valley, autumn events in Halifax, seafood and cultural celebrations along the coast, and fall colour experiences throughout Cape Breton Island. Popular events and accommodations can fill up quickly during peak foliage season, so planning ahead is recommended.

Click for Fall Events

Shelburne Giant Pumpkin Regatta sees paddlers in hollowed out giant pumpkins paddling in Shelburne Harbour in Nova Scotia each fall. — Nova Scotia Pumpkin Regatta

Explore Nova Scotia in Every Season

From spring blossoms and summer beaches to fall colours and winter festivals, every season offers a different way to experience Nova Scotia. Compare weather, crowd levels, seasonal events, and travel experiences to help choose the best time for your visit.

Find the Best Time to Visit

Explore our Wineries and Farm Markets

Nova Scotia comes alive every harvest season with brilliant colours and an abundance of fresh produce and locally made wines that you’re sure to love.

Four friends enjoy wine and food on a patio overlooking a lush vineyard on a sunny day

Wineries

Celebrate the harvest at one of Nova Scotia’s 20 wineries. Sample Tidal Bay wines, stroll the vineyard and take in fall colours.

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Produce from the Wolfville Farmer's Market

Farm Markets

Check out a local market for the freshest fall produce, pumpkins, locally crafted beverages, sweet treats and handmade treasures.

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Packages

Your perfect fall getaway, made easy. Accommodations, attractions, activities and more are just a click away.

Three people learning about bladesmithing with a professional smith at Wildertools forge in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia.

Forging Lunenburg Memories

$380CAD/Starting Price • Per Couple

Discover the tools and artistry of an award-winning blacksmith—then swing the hammer to forge your own keepsake!

Wildertools
Lunenburg
January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2027

Tidal Bay Tour: Saturday

$115CAD/Per Person

Departing from downtown Wolfville, climb on board a classic British Double-Decker Bus for an engaging guided journey to three unique locations!

Magic Winery Bus
Wolfville
May 16, 2026 – October 24, 2026

A group of hikers stand with their guide on a viewing platform overlooking dramatic cliffs and blue green waters in the Bay of Fundy

Three Sisters Cape Chignecto Hike

$75CAD/Per Person

Experience one of the most breathtaking coastlines in the world on this guided hiking tour within the Cliffs of Fundy Geopark. Enjoy lookouts over…

Local Guy Adventures
Spencer’s Island
May 15, 2026 – November 30, 2026

Two people relax, one in a chair and one on a bed, inside a dome. Out the window lots of trees can be seen. Inside the dome, dozens of flameless candles are placed around the floor and surfaces.

One-night Riverview Luxury Dome Romantic Getaway

$445CAD/Per Couple

Soak your cares away in a private wood-fired hot tub & relax in the glow of 100 flameless candles on this 1-night getaway + meals from Lupin Dining.

FlowEdge Riverside Getaway
Elderbank
August 19, 2024 – December 31, 2026

Mornings by the Shore at Fox Harb’r Resort

Wake gently to the rhythm of the Northumberland Shore. At Fox Harb’r Resort, mornings are unhurried and thoughtfully composed—shaped by sea, tradition

Fox Harb'r Resort
Fox Harbour
April 16, 2026 – November 14, 2026

Split Rips: Cape Split by Sea Zodiac Tour

$172 –

$299CAD/Per Person

Take a thrilling Zodiac boat tour, on the Bay of Fundy, to the tip of Cape Split Provincial Park for exclusive views of the iconic towering cliffs…

Where It's At Tours
Scots Bay
June 20, 2026 – November 29, 2026

Signature Adventure Sail

$5 –

$98CAD/Starting Price • Per Person

This 1.5 hour sailing tour provides a fun opportunity to experience and learn aboard a wind-powered sailing adventure on Halifax Harbour!

J. Farwell Sailing Co.
Halifax
May 11, 2026 – October 10, 2026

A person walks toward the camera, away from tall, brown, rock formations and cliffs while the tide is out and ocean floor is visible in the Bay of Fundy.

Sculpted by Wind: The Red Cliffs Walk

$235 –

$335CAD/Per Person

Discover coastal waterfalls, flowerpot rock formations and sea caves as you explore the beautiful red sand beach and towering sandstone cliffs…

Tide Rollers & Mudlarkers
Economy
February 1, 2026 – February 1, 2027

Blacksmith for a Day

$159CAD/Starting Price • Per Person

Learn the timeless art of blacksmithing from a skilled craftsman at the Hector Heritage Quay.

Hector Heritage Quay
Pictou
June 3, 2026 – September 30, 2026

Spa-inspired Dome Getaway

$480CAD/Starting Price • Per Couple

Soak in the views from your private outdoor hot tub. Relax by the fireplace, stargaze in the Zen loft, and indulge in local farm-to-table meals.

Nalu Retreat
Porter’s Lake
January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2026

Two people do a cheers with their wine glasses before dining at Le Caveau Restaurant at Grand Pre Winery in Grand Pre, Nova Scotia

Grand Pré Wine, Dine & Stay

$770CAD/Starting Price • Per Couple

Indulge in a guided tasting of award-winning wines, a seasonal four-course dinner, and a night’s stay in a vineyard suite with breakfast for two.

Grand Pré Winery
Grand Pré
January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2027

River Ridge Family Adventure

$662CAD/Per Family*

Make family memories on a 2-night riverfront getaway in Mahone Bay, with trail biking, pewter creating, café treats, and whimsical faerie discoveries!

River Ridge Lodge
Martin’s River
May 15, 2026 – October 10, 2026

Fall in Nova Scotia Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. September is one of the best months to visit Nova Scotia. The weather is often mild, ocean temperatures are moderate, and many seasonal attractions, restaurants, and tour operators remain open. Late September also marks the beginning of fall colour season in many parts of the province, making it an excellent time for road trips, hiking, and coastal sightseeing.

Yes. Fall is one of the best times to visit Nova Scotia. Visitors can experience vibrant autumn colours along the Cabot Trail, in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and throughout the Annapolis Valley, while also enjoying coastal drives, hiking, harvest season, and a variety of seasonal events. Fall typically brings fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures for exploring.

Yes. Nova Scotia offers year-round experiences beyond the summer season. Fall brings colourful foliage along the Cabot Trail and in the Annapolis Valley, while winter offers downhill skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Travellers who visit outside peak summer often enjoy fewer crowds, easier access to accommodations, and a different perspective on popular destinations.

Fall colours in Nova Scotia typically begin appearing in late September and usually peak around mid-October, although timing varies by region and weather conditions. Cape Breton and higher elevations often see colour earlier, while coastal and southern regions may peak later. The Cabot Trail, Wentworth Valley, Annapolis Valley, and Kejimkujik National Park & National Historic Site are among the province’s most popular fall foliage destinations.

Let’s Get Planning

Ready to start planning your Nova Scotia adventure? We’re here to help with the practical information you need, from how to get here to dressing for the season!

Learn From the Locals

Our friendly locals have tips to help you make the most of your winter getaway. Find the best hot chocolate, the coziest accommodations and more on our blog.

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