By at least the early 1770s immigrants from the Highlands and Islands of Scotland came by the tens of thousands and made Nova Scotia their home. These settlers called themselves Gàidheil (Gaels), i.e. ones whose language and cultural expression is Gaelic.
Gaelic, like the Irish language spoken by early immigrant Irish Gaels in Nova Scotia is a Celtic language. The Gaelic language’s rich cultural expression of song, music, dance, story, food, customs and traditions have helped shape Nova Scotia’s identity and diversity.
The Gaelic language and cultural expression of these early Gaels from Scotland continue to be shared in the province to this day. Fiddle and pipe music and Gaelic song provide a rich musical experience. Dance, storytelling, local history and customs are part of family and community life. The famous kitchen party, which has its origins in the “céilidh” which means “a visit,” is a common occurrence and has become a way to share Gaelic language and cultural expression through song, music, dance and story.
Learn more about Nova Scotia’s Gaelic heritage and history.
Explore a variety of historically significant attractions on Cape Breton Island. From an 18th century fortress to a 43-acre living history museum, …
Our past becomes a full-on sensory experience at each of the 10 living history sites in Nova Scotia. Cannons blast and blacksmiths forge as interpr…
The Gaelic language spoken in Nova Scotia is the same as the Gaelic spoken by the early Scottish Gaelic settlers. Commonly referred to as Scottish …
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