There will be a Celebration of Song on September 10th with the Cora Cantabile Choir at the Calvin Presbyterian Church in Loch Lomond, Cape Breton.

The Cora Cantabile Women's Choir with director Jim MacNeil

On Sunday, Sept. 10th, enjoy an afternoon concert with Coro Cantabile and Friends, at the Calvin Presbyterian Church in Loch Lomond starting at 3pm. The Coro Cantabile Choir which consists of all women is amazing, and are under the direction of Jim MacNeil. The Choir will be joined by special guests for this amazing afternoon of music. Admission is by donation at the door. Following the concert there will also be a Turkey Supper (optional) at a cost of $15.00 per person.

So mark this date on your calendar for a performance you will not want to miss.

Up date to the Schedule for the St. Peter's Day Festival in St. Peter's -September 14 to 17 Don't Miss it!!!

St. Peter's Pirate's Plunder The Village

St. Peter’s Pirate Days Festival - Sept 14 – 17, 2017

Thursday September 14 and Friday, September 15, 2017

Best Dressed Pirate Storefronts and Homes viewings

The town businesses and many residences are dressed up like never before and competing for some valuable booty! Scout around town and check them out for yourself.

Location: St. Peter’s

Cost: Free/Prizes

Thursday September 14, 2017

Pirate Days’ Trivia Night: 8 pm

A night to bring your mates out for interrogation on various landlubber and pirate related stuff.

Location: MacBouch Restaurant and Lounge

Cost: Team admission cost – $40, max team of 4.

Must register ahead by calling 902-535-3578

Friday September 15, 2017

Step Back into History: 5 pm to 7 pm

Louisbourg reenactment Militia members will be on hand to give weapons demonstrations and training to young recruits.

Location: St. Peter’s Canal Landing, St. Peter’s Bay

Cost: Free admission.

Opening Ceremonies and Pirates Walk: 7 pm – 8 pm

Dignitaries and invited pirates will start of the weekend – however proclamations will be short under threat of walking the plank! When its over, join the pirates parade up through town to seek out more merriment – destination MacBouch Restaurant and Lounge.

Location: St. Peter’s Canal Landing, St. Peter’s Bay

Cost: Free admission.

Outdoor Movie: 8 pm to 9:30 pm

Bring some chairs to the canal and enjoy the pirate movie Hook under the stars. Free Popcorn.

Location: St. Peter’s Canal Landing, St. Peter’s Bay

Cost: Free admission.

Pirates’ Wing Nite: 9 pm – midnight

Join your fellow pirates in or out of costume and sit back and enjoy your favourite grog, tasty wings or step lively. Listen to music provided by privateers and musicians Darrell Keigan & Stewart MacDonald. You’ll be transported back to days of ol’ as the room is full of fellow pirates. And the judges have scouted the swaggy about town and are ready to name the top three business winners. Bullion to the top three! 

Location: MacBouch Restaurant & Lounge

Cost: Free will donations welcome.

Music by Granville Street Project : 9 pm – midnight

Step on out and enjoy some more live entertainment provided by Granville Street Project. Granville Street Project is a 10 piece classic rock/blues band that will have you dancing the night away.  The band is comprised of members from the Strait area and features a full horn section.  You’ll hear a variety of music from with from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s that is sure to keep you on your feet!

Location: Bras d’Or Lakes Inn

Cost: $10.00

Saturday, September 16th, 2017

Run Maties, Run: 8 am

First Mate Marvin  from the beached Kin-Excel will lead the hearty on a merry 5 km chase through the village.

Location: Meet at St. Peter’s Canal, St. Peter’s Bay side.

Cost: Free/Prizes.

Must register ahead by calling 902-535-2488

Thieves’ Market: 9 am – 5 pm

Check out the Pirate Day Specials at the various merchants and shop keepers around the village. You won’t need to pilfer this weekend.

Location: All over the village

Cost: Up to you matey. Fill your boots.

Young Scallywag Activities: 10 am – 12 noon

Children, costumes optional, can be brought ashore to enjoy some free range activities port side under the watchful eye of  their parents. 

Location: Lion’s Club Marina

Cost: Free will donations welcome.

4-H Pillaging for the Food bank: 10 am – noon.

There will be no mischief going on but Foodland is packaging up a few more food supplies for those with a few shillings to use to make donations to the the local food bank.

Location: Foodland Co-op St. Peter’s.

Cost: A desire to share.

Artisan Market: 11 am – 3 pm

Artisans and crafters from all around. Maybe even a distillery or two!

Location: Coastal Arts & Culture Guild Market.

Cost: Free admission

Pirate Burger Grill: 11 am – 1 pm

Specializing in BBQ’d Pirate Burgers and Sea Dogs this charity event may just fill your leg.

Location: East Coast Credit Union

Cost: Varies.

Villa Pirate Pet Parade and Party: 1 pm sharp

Brighten up your and the senior pirates’ day with your pirate-costumed pet. Everyone will be in costume! 

Location: Assemble at the Richmond Villa

Cost: Free/Prizes

Please register ahead at Lynn’s Flowers & Gifts or by calling 902-535-2377

Ship of Fools Cardboard Boat Race: 2 pm – 4 pm

The expert boat builders from River Bourgeois will provide you and your team with supplies and instruction to make the most seaworthy vessel you can to race the treacherous waters of St. Peter’s Bay and Canal. Only the brave or foolish would take on such a challenge to cheat Davy Jones’ Locker!

Location: Canal, at Battery Provincial Park Beach.

Cost: Free admission (and likely wet clothes!)/Prizes

Landlubbers Happy Hour: 3 pm – 5 pm

If you feel becalmed then head over to the tavern, check out entertainment by Brett Pierce.

Location: MacBouch Restaurant and Lounge

Cost: Free admission.

Pirate Buffet: 5 pm – 7 pm

Now’s the the time to fill your boots with some fine food from the galley of a fellow sailor. And then step outside to watch the Lights on the Lake Ships Parade.

Location: Bras d’Or Lakes Inn

Cost: $29.95

Pirate Patio Party: 6 pm – 9 pm

Head over for some grub, a wee dram of your favourite thirst quencher and lay back to be entertained by Full Circle. Keep a keen eye open though – the pirate fleet is heard to ply these waters and there will be a ‘Lights on the Lake’ Ships Parade. There may even be some pirates ashore!

Location: Jiggs

Cost: You have the purse.

Lights on the Lake Ships Parade: 7:30 pm -8:30 pm

The pirate fleet and their motley crews will weigh anchor from the Lion’s Hall Marina and sail out towards Corbetts Cove seeking fame and fortune – a share of the bullion going to the top three best dressed boats among the lot. Keep your wits about you – be sure your not press ganged before they set off! You may find yourself on the wrong deck. Pirate ships can enjoy a special overnight rate at the St. Peter’s Marina.

Location: Best view anywhere from the lake end of canal, Bras d’Or Lakes Inn, Jiggs,  the Visitor Info Centre through to Corbett’s Cove Rd.

Cost: Free/Prizes awarded

To register your boat contact Glenda Sampson (902) 227-5520 or email piratedays@visitstpeters.com

Party Like a Pirate Bashs: 9:00 pm -1:00 am

There’s a whole lot of fun set out for a whole lot of landlubbers and pirates to enjoy this evening!  To make sure everyone can participate there are three venues with live entertainment and regular shuttle bus service running among them all evening. All are encouraged to dig deep into their clothes chest and put on their finest pirate era garb to fete this night away. A fine eye will be used, replaced with a patch of course, to scan the lot of you for the three best dressed pirates. Prize winners for best dressed houses, pirate ships and pirates will be announced during the evening. 

 Ports of Call One

Lion’s Club Community Hall

Music by The Relatives

 Ports of Call Two

MacBouch Restaurant and Lounge

Music by Back Around

 Ports of Call Three

Bras d’Or Lakes Inn

Music by Andre Pettipas

Cost: $15 for the Trio/costume Prizes

Shuttle Buses among the three venues;

Night Watch: 1:00 am -3:00 am

Music by Full Circle and the galley will be open.

Location: Louie’s Cosy Corner

Cost: Free Admission

 Sunday, September 17th, 2017

Hangover Breakfast: 8 am – 12 noon

Yo-ho-ho, shake off those barnacles. If you can make it to the mess hall you are sure to enjoy your breakfast. Enjoy some crackle fruit the way you like them or order up the HE-MAN’S Breakfast Pirate Days special.

Location: Louie’s Cosy Corner

Cost: Up to you matey.

Artisan Market: 11 am – 3 pm

Artisans and crafters from all around

Location: Coastal Arts & Culture Guild Market.

Cost: Free admission

Pirate Parade: 12:30 pm 

Pirates will be gathering from Land and Sea. Please join in costume and walk the parade route!

Route: De Raymond St. to Toulouse St. Fire hall

Cost: Free

Pirates’ Cup of Tea: 1 pm – 3 pm

Steeped in history – this Nicolas Denys Museum fundraiser continues the tradition of a wee cup of tea me boys and gals while reminiscing the days gone by. Sandwiches and sweets provided.

Music by Nova Scotia Hall of Famer – Robert Bouchard.

Location: St. Peter’s Firehall 

Cost: $15 in advance/$20.00 at the door.

Tickets can be purchased at C&M Video or at the museum.

All Weekend Long!

Scavenger Hunt: Saturday 10 am – Sunday 11 am

Seek out the answers to a lost soul’s queries scavenging throughout the village in pursuit of facts, fame and fortune. Sign up as an individual or group and share the spoils. 

Location: You can pick up your scavenger’s Lion’s Hall Saturday morning after 10 am and then start on your merry way with a sharp eye and keen wit about you. Hand in your completed manifest at the designated location(s) before 11 am Sunday.

Cost: Free/Prizes

St. Peter’s Marina: Berths only $25/night at Lions Marina (902) 535-2729   www.st-peters-marina.com

Cruise the Canal or sail in St. Peter’s Bay on Cuna Mara: 25% off regular rates. Pirates and the general public are all welcome to cruise with Captain Kerr. Booking info at  www.itsarap.ca

Calling All Pirates - St. Peter's Pirate Days Are Coming September 14 to 17, 2017

Pirates Invade St. Peter's

St. Peter's Pirate Days Schedule – Sept 14 – 17, 2017

Thursday September 14 and Friday, September 15, 2017

Best Dressed Pirate Storefronts and Homes viewings - Cost: Free/Prizes

Thursday September 14, 2017

Pirate Days’ Trivia Night: 8 pm at MacBouch Restaurant and Lounge
Cost: Team admission cost – $40, max team of 4. - Must register ahead by calling 902-535-3578

Friday September 15, 2017

Step Back into History: 5 pm to 7 pm --Louisbourg reenactment Militia members will be on hand to give weapons demonstrations and training in parade to young recruits. At the St. Peter’s Canal Landing, St. Peter’s Bay. Cost: Free admission.

Opening Ceremonies and Pirates Walk: 7 pm – 8 pm - Dignitaries and invited pirates will start of the weekend – however proclamations will be short under threat of walking the plank! When its over, join the pirates parade up through town to seek out more merriment – destination MacBouch Restaurant and Lounge. -  St. Peter’s Canal Landing, St. Peter’s Bay. Cost: Free admission.

Outdoor Movie: 8 pm to 9:30 pm - Bring some chairs to the canal and enjoy the pirate movie Hook under the stars. Free Popcorn, at St. Peter’s Canal Landing, St. Peter’s Bay. Cost: Free admission.

Pirates’ Wing Nite: 9 pm – midnight - Join your fellow pirates in or out of costume and sit back and enjoy your favourite grog, tasty wings or step lively. Listen to music provided by privateers and musicians Darrell Keigan & Stewart MacDonald. You’ll be transported back to days of ol’ as the room is full of fellow pirates. And the judges have scouted the swaggy about town and are ready to name the top three business winners. Bullion to the top three at MacBouch Restaurant & Lounge. Cost: Free will donations welcome.

Music by Granville Street Project : 9 pm – midnight - Step on out and enjoy some more live entertainment provided by Granville Street Project. Granville Street Project is a 10 piece classic rock/blues band that will have you dancing the night away.  The band is comprised of members from the Strait area and features a full horn section.  You’ll hear a variety of music from with from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s that is sure to keep you on your feet! At the Bras d’Or Lakes Inn. Cost: $10.00

Saturday, September 16th, 2017

Run Maties, Run: 8 am - First Mate Marvin  from the beached Kin-Excel will lead the hearty on a merry 5 km chase through the village. Meet at St. Peter’s Canal, St. Peter’s Bay side. Cost: Free/Prizes. Must register ahead by calling 902-535-2488

Thieves’ Market: 9 am – 5 pm - Check out the Pirate Day Specials at the various merchants and shop keepers around the village. You won’t need to pilfer this weekend.  All over the village. Cost: Up to you matey. Fill your boots.

Young Scallywag Activities: 10 am – 12 noon - Children, costumes optional, can be brought ashore to enjoy some free range activities port side under the watchful eye of  their parents. At the Lion’s Club Marina. Cost: Free will donations welcome.

4-H Pillaging for the Food bank: 10 am – noon. - There will be no mischief going on but Foodland is packaging up a few more food supplies for those with a few shillings to use to make donations to the the local food bank, at theFoodland Co-op St. Peter’s. Cost: A desire to share.

Artisan Market: 11 am – 3 pm - Artisans and crafters from all around.  Coastal Arts & Culture Guild Market. Cost: Free admission

Pirate Burger Grill: 11 am – 1 pm - Specializing in BBQ’d Pirate Burgers and Sea Dogs this charity event may just fill your leg, at the  East Coast Credit Union. Cost: Varies.

Villa Pirate Pet Parade and Party: 1 pm sharp - Brighten up yours and the senior pirates’ day with your pirate-costumed pet. Everyone will be in costume! The Island Steppers will entertain.  Assemble at the Richmond Villa. Cost: Free/Prizes. Please register ahead at Lynn’s Flowers & Gifts or by calling 902-535-2377

Ship of Fools Cardboard Boat Race: 2 pm – 4 pm - The expert boat builders from River Bourgeois will provide you and your team with supplies and instruction to make the most seaworthy vessel you can to race the treacherous waters of St. Peter’s Bay and Canal. Only the brave or foolish would take on such a challenge to cheat Davy Jones’ Locker! At the Canal, at Battery Provincial Park Beach. Cost: Free (and likely wet clothes!)/Prizes.

Landlubbers Happy Hour: 3 pm – 5 pm - If you feel becalmed then head over to the tavern, check out entertainment by Brett Pierce, at the  MacBouch Restaurant and Lounge. Cost: Free admission.

Pirate Buffet: 5 pm – 7 pm - Now’s the the time to fill your boots with some fine food from the galley of a fellow sailor. And then step outside to watch the Lights on the Lake Ships Parade, at the  Bras d’Or Lakes Inn. Cost: $29.95

Pirate Patio Party: 6 pm – 9 pm - Head over for some grub, a wee dram of your favourite thirst quencher and lay back to be entertained by Full Circle. Keep a keen eye open though – the pirate fleet is heard to ply these waters and there will be a ‘Lights on the Lake’ Ships Parade. There may even be some pirates ashore! at Jiggs. Cost: You have the purse.

Lights on the Lake Ships Parade: 7:30 pm -8:30 pm

The pirate fleet and their motley crews will weigh anchor from the Lion’s Hall Marina and sail out towards Corbetts Cove seeking fame and fortune – a share of the bullion going to the top three best dressed boats among the lot. Keep your wits about you – be sure your not press ganged before they set off! You may find yourself on the wrong deck. Pirate ships can enjoy a special overnight rate at the St. Peter’s Marina. Best view anywhere from the lake end of canal, Bras d’Or Lakes Inn, Jiggs,  the Visitor Info Centre through to Corbett’s Cove Rd. Cost: Free/Prizes awarded. To register your boat contact Glenda Sampson (902) 227-5520 or email piratedays@visitstpeters.com.

Party Like a Pirate Bashs: 9:00 pm -1:00 am -There’s a whole lot of fun set out for a whole lot of landlubbers and pirates to enjoy this evening!  To make sure everyone can participate there are three venues with live entertainment and regular shuttle bus service running among them all evening. All are encouraged to dig deep into their clothes chest and put on their finest pirate era garb to fete this night away. A fine eye will be used, replaced with a patch of course, to scan the lot of you for the three best dressed pirates. Prize winners for best dressed houses, pirate ships and pirates will be announced during the evening. 

Ports of Call One - Lion’s Club Community Hall -  Music by The Relatives.
Ports of Call Two - MacBouch Restaurant and Lounge - Music by Back Around.
Ports of Call Three - Bras d’Or Lakes Inn - Music by Andre Pettipas.
Cost: $15 for the Trio/costume Prizes. Shuttle Buses among the three venues;

Night Watch: 1:00 am -3:00 am - Music by Full Circle and the galley will be open.at Louie’s Cosy Corner. Cost: Free Admission.

Sunday, September 17th, 2017

Hangover Breakfast: 8 am – 12 noon - Yo-ho-ho, shake off those barnacles. If you can make it to the mess hall you are sure to enjoy your breakfast. Enjoy some crackle fruit the way you like them or order up the HE-MAN’S Breakfast Pirate Days special, at Louie’s Cosy Corner. Cost: Up to you matey.

Artisan Market: 11 am – 3 pm - Artisans and crafters from all around - Coastal Arts & Culture Guild Market. Cost: Free admission.

Pirate Parade: 12:30 pm  - Pirates will be gathering from Land and Sea. Please join in costume and walk the parade route! Route: De Raymond St. to Toulouse St. Fire hall. Cost: Free

Pirates’ Cup of Tea: 1 pm – 3 pm - Steeped in history – this Nicolas Denys Museum fundraiser continues the tradition of a wee cup of tea me boys and gals while reminiscing the days gone by. Sandwiches and sweets provided. Music by Nova Scotia Hall of Famer – Robert Bouchard, at the St. Peter’s Firehall.  Cost: $20.00

All Weekend Long!

Scavenger Hunt: Saturday 10 am – Sunday 11 am - Seek out the answers to a lost soul’s queries scavenging throughout the village in pursuit of facts, fame and fortune. Sign up as an individual or group and share the spoils.  You can pick up your scavenger’s Lion’s Hall Saturday morning after 10 am and then start on your merry way with a sharp eye and keen wit about you. Hand in your completed manifest at the designated location(s) before 11 am Sunday. Cost: Free/Prizes

St. Peter’s Marina: Berths only $25/night at Lions Marina (902) 535-2729   www.st-peters-marina.com. Cruise the Canal or sail in St. Peter’s Bay on Cuna Mara: 25% off regular rates. Pirates and the general public are all welcome to cruise with Captain Kerr. Booking info at  www.itsarap.ca

The Johnstown Milling Frolic is the longest running milling frolic on Cape Breton Island, probably in Canada. The Milling Frolic has been running for over 80 years. 2017 will be the 85th year

Annual milling frolic

August 18th

2017

EVENTS

All Ages 7pm - 12am

Country Store	Fresh Garden Vegetables
Bake Sale	All Home Cooking
Milling	Learn how to mill cloth
Gaelic Singing	Listen to the best in Gaelic Singing songs to mill cloth by
Bingo	Come and play merchandise Bingo
Lunch	Relax and enjoy a lunch and tea
Straw Game	Let the children take a chance to win a prize

Adult Dance 9pm - 1am

Square Dance

Kinnon and Betty Lou Beaton

Isle Madame Bluegrass & Old Time Country Music Festival to take place at Janvrin's Isle

The Isle Madame Bluegrass and Old Time Country Music Festival will take place from Friday August 18 to Sun. August 20 at the Gaston LeBlanc Memorial Ballfield and Recreation Center at  830 Janvrin Harbour Rd. Janvrin's Island.

The Isle Madame Bluegrass & Old Time Country Music Festival Committee is very pleased to announce the following bands will be entertaining the audience at our 3rd Annual concerts:

Bluegrass Diamonds

Free Wheelin

Next Generation

Ryan Dillman & Shadow River K

Kenny Pettipas and More!

NEW this year: WORKSHOPS!!! The workshops will be led by Ryan Dillman & Shadow River... A not-to-be missed experience! 

Fri, Aug 18: 7-11pm - Opening;

Sat, Aug 19: 1-5pm and 7-11pm;

Sun, Aug 20: 10am-3pm Closing

Tickets are $50/weekend pass; $20/daily pass

Dry camping available-limited number of sites. Reservations on a first come-first served basis.

Tickets on sale from the DIMA office (Arichat) or by phone at 902-226-1918 or by mail. 

For more information see our NEW website: www.imbluegrass.ca

It is going to be a great line up of entertainers and definitely an event you will not want to miss if you are a Bluegrass and Country Music fan. Hope to see you there.

A Favorite Acadian Dish Served in Acadian Communities on Cape Breton Island

                                                        One of the Best French Meat Pie

Ingredients:

lb ground beef
8 ounces ground pork
1⁄2cup onion, finely chopped
1⁄2cup water
2 large potatoes, peeled, cut into quarters
1⁄2teaspoon salt
1⁄4teaspoon allspice
1⁄4teaspoon ground cloves
1⁄8 teaspoon pepper
1 double crust pie crust

Directions:

Combine beef, pork, onion and water in a medium saucepan and mix well.
Cook, covered, over low heat until the ground beef and pork are cooked through, stirring occasionally.
Boil the potatoes in water to cover in a small saucepan until tender; drain
Add to the meat mixture.
Add the salt, allspice, cloves and pepper and mix well; remove from heat.
Mash the mixture with a potato masher.
Roll the pastry into two 11-inch circles on a lightly floured surface.
Fit 1 pastry into a 9-inch pie plate.
Fill with the meat mixture.
Cover with the remaining pastry, fluting the edge and cutting several vents.
Bake at 450′ for 20 minutes or the crust is golden brown.

The face of the Historic Village of St. Peter's Continues to Change, St. Peter's Canal Bridge Schedule to Open This Week.

The face of St. Peter's continues to change and although the old St. Peter's bridge has been in our history for a long time, it is time to move on. I read this item this afternoon, and so I am passing it along.

St. Peters Canal Bridge - swinging into summer!
As of June 15, the new St. Peters Canal Swing Bridge will be operational to all sail boats and cars. The grand opening will be later this year once the landscaping and Mi'kmaq interpretative and commemorative panels are installed.

I for one will not miss the long waits for traffic line ups, just do to the heavy traffic passing through our busy little Village, over our one lane bridge. Now with the two lanes, we will only have waits when ships are coming through the canal,

and then it is nice to sit and watch the boats sail through. Progress is good at times. just thinking out loud!

Dundee Resort & Golf Club Celebrates New Ownership!!!

On June 1, the Dundee Resort and Golf Club’s long-time owner Scott MacAulay passed the keys to new owner, Sonny Grewal.

"We have been looking for an opportunity such as this for some time and thought Dundee would be the perfect fit," says Grewal, who has recently relocated from Texas and has dual citizenship. He and his business partner, brother Sumer are excited with their new investment.
As the demand for Cape Breton accommodations continues to grow, Dundee Resort and Golf Club has a renewed focus on becoming a true destination resort. Grewal has great plans for the property and construction work has already begun.
"We are positioning ourselves to provide a comprehensive vacation experience for guests. This means upgrades to the resort and golf course overall, as well as providing complimentary recreation activities for guest of all ages, delicious food and weekend entertainment," says Grewal.
An investment in the Dundee Resort and Golf Club is an investment in the future of the Strait Area as a tourism destination. Grewal plans to make Dundee a seasonal home and is excited to meet members of the community.

The Free Outdoor Granville Green Concert Series will Start Up in Port Hawkesbury on July 2nd.

Granville Green Free Outdoor Concert

For those who love great music, one of the highlights of the Summer Season in Cape Breton is the Free Granville Green Outdoor Concerts which take place at Granville Green in Port Hawkesbury during July and August. Well the schedule is now out and here is a peek at who will be performing this summer.

Schedule for the Free Outdoor Granville Green Concert Series in Port Hawkesbury From Sunday July 2 to Sunday August 6^th. at 7pm.

July 2^nd – The Barra MacNeils with Special guests- Nuallan, Sarah MacInnes and Change of Step.

July 9^th. – Joshua Hyslop and special guest Mike Bochoff Band

July 16^th.- The Good Lovelies and special guest Ashley MacIsaac  and Fiddlers Four.

July 23^rd.- Hillsburn and special guest Jordon Musycsyn.

July 30^th. – Ben Caplan and the Casual Smokers and special guest Villages.

August 6^th.- The Once and special guest Devarrow

Come Celebrate Father's Day in St. Peter's at Louie's Cosy Corner Restaurant on June 18th.

Father's Day at Louie's Cosy Corner Sun. 18 Jun, 2017 11:00 am

Louie's Cosy Corner Restaurant in St. Peter's

Canada Day 150 Celebrations to Include Outdoor Music Festival at the Groundswell in D'Escousse

The Groundswell in D'Escousse

If you are looking for something fun to do this Canada Day with friends and family, come to the Outdoor Music Festival at the Groundswell in D'Escousse, on July 1st. and make the 150th Canada Day one to remember!

Events include:

12pm – 1am

FEATURES

Beer Garden

All Day Music From The Deck

7 + Local Bands/Musicians

Strait Area Transit Shuttles

$5.00 All Day Entry

Prizes For Best Dressed Canadian Spirit

Kids Face Painting

Outdoor BBQ

Craft Beer

 

MUSICIANS

Small Kitchen Chaos (Eclectic 2-Piece)

Rene Fougere

Jon Hines

Brett Pierce

Trevor Bonin

Echo (3 Piece String Band!)

False Flag Time Machine (Rocky’s Funk Reggae Fusion Band)

** FREE FOR ALL JAM FEST **

Don't miss Richmond County's Signature Event The SeaSide Lobsterfest July 9 to 16th.

The Seaside Lobsterfest, July 9 to 16th. 2017

Schedule

Sunday, July 9th

Opening Ceremonies @ St. Peters Marina 2pm

Come join us while we kick of Lobsterfest 2017.

We’ll have Irish Dancing, bag piping, and aboriginal dancers so come on down and get trapped in St. Peters.

Evening Gig

with Roger Stone, Cyril MacPhee, & Doug Sampson 7pm

@ St. Peter’s Lions Hall

Join us for an unforgettable evening of music and memories with half of Brakin’ Tradition. Tickets will go quickly for this even so don’t miss out.

$20 – Cash bar available

Monday July 10th

Lobster Dinner @ Lobster's R Us
with entertainment TBA
Dinner Starts at 5pm and includes Fresh Lobster caught right in Little Harbour, Salads, Dessert, & Tea or Coffee $37 per person

Cash bar will be available.
Ham Dinners available upon request. Advanced Ticket Required.

Tuesday, July 11th

Lobsterfest Foodie Tour
Try something new or reconnect with an old favorite while you tour local restaurants. 4 Stops, 4 Amazing Course, Unlimited Fun.
$40 per person Pre-booking required Call 902 631 1843

Wednesday, July 12th
Afternoon Tea 2pm
at Louie's Cosy Corner
Biscutes, Jam, & Tea or Coffee

Entertainment by Jadion Seymour

2 to 4pm

Thursday, July 13th

Lobsterfest Cookoff Challenge
@ St. Peter's Lion's Hall - 3pm
Watch St. Peters’ Finest complete in a Lobster Cooking Competition for bragging rights and the Famous Bronze Cracker award

Chowder Dinner
@ St. Peter's Lion's Hall – 4pm
Entertainment by: Kenny Pettipas
$15 per person includes biscuit, dessert, tea, & coffee.

Trivia @ Macbouch
1st, 2nd, & 3rd Place Prizes
8pm
To Register call 902 631 1843 $40 per team

Friday, July 14th

Lobsterfest Beach Party

@ Battery Park 5pm-9pm

Bring your guitar, your appetite, and your dancing shoes for a jam session at the beach. Lobster and corn will be available to be boiled and a beer tent for the grown-ups.

Saturday, July 15th
Ball Tournament _ Sat & Sun
@ L’ardoise Field
$250 per team – 1st, 2nd, & 3rd Place Prizes
 Call Charlie Martell to register

Afternoon Fun
 @ St. Peter's Lion's Hall - 10am-2pm
Farmer's Market, Kids Activities, & Music

Jesus Murphy $15
@ L'ardoise Community Centre – 9pm-1am
with Fireworks at Dusk

WEEK LONG ACTIVITIES
LOBSTER FISHING EXPERIENCE

MONDAY TO FRIDAY

@ ST. PETERS CANAL

9AM – 2PM
EVER WONDERING HOW LOBSTER GETS FROM THE OCEAN TO YOUR PLATE? LET CAPTAIN SCOTT TAKE YOU OUT AND SHOW YOU THE ROPES. BOATS LEAVE EVERY HOUR ON THE HOUR AND LOBSTER WILL BE SOLD ON SHORE WITH COOKING DEMOS AVAILABLE. NOT A BOAT PERSON? SMELT FISHING KITS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE WITH DEMONSTRATIONS ON HOW YOU COULD CATCH YOUR DINNER.

LOBSTER’S R US TOURS

 MONDAY TO FRIDAY @ TOURS START EVERY HOUR ON THE HOUR STARTING AT 9AM AND ENDING AT 12PM.

LOBSTERS R US, ONE OF THE MOST STATE OF THE ART MARINE PROCESSING FACILITIES IN ATLANTIC CANADA. LEARN ABOUT WHAT IT TAKES TO HAVE A HOLDING CAPACITY OF 1,000,000 TONS OF LIVE LOBSTERS WHILE STILL BEING THE MOST ENERGY EFFICIENT PROCESSERS IN ATLANTIC CANADA.


PAINT THE TOWN RED

TO GET IN THE MOOD FOR SEASIDE LOBSTERFEST, WE’RE ASKING THE PEOPLE OF ST. PETER’S, L’ARDOISE, RIVER BOURGEOIS, & CHAPEL ISLAND TO DECORATE THEIR FRONT LAWNS AND STORE FRONTS. FIRST PLACE PRIZES WILL BE AWARD TO THE BEST BUSINESS AND RESIDENCE DISPLAYS. DISPLAYS SHOULD BE UP BY JULY 3RD.

Come to Richmond County, N.S. For a Tourism Season Filled With Amazing Events & Festivals, You Will Not Be Disappointed!!!!

Seaside Lobsterfest in St. Peter's

Hi everyone, you will want to mark these important festivals and events on your calendar. You will not want to miss any of these spectacular festivals and events which are scheduled to take place this summer. And remember that the Music Camp on the Canal starts this weekend with an amazing All Star Concert scheduled for Saturday evening, so get your tickets for that before they are all gone.
Signature Events:
Lobters R’ Us Seaside Lobsterfest, July 9-16, serving up everything seafood.
Annual Pow Wow, July 21-23, authentic Mi’kmaq culture.
July 27-30, L’Ardoise Acadian Festival celebrates our Acadian culture.
August 4-6, Experience the pageantry of the Tall Ships Regatta.
August 6, Swim the Canal provides that once in a lifetime experience. Swim the historic St. Peter’s Canal (800 mtr) right into the open Atlantic Ocean.
September 15-17, Pirate Days explores the lighter side of our darker past. Pirate themed like no other. Hunt for treasure. A haven for the pirate in us all.
October, Celtic Colours International Festival, in celebrates
North America’s only living Celtic culture. KitchenRackets jam sessions after the evening concerts.
Festivals:
June 2-4, Music Camp on the Canal St. Peter’s
June 17-18 Potlotek Fishing Derby Chapel Island
The Concerts by the Sea rotate weekly between LeNoir Landing in Arichat and the St. Peter’s Lions Marina in St. Peter’s during July and August, these are the free outdoor concerts.
There are also the Sunday Concerts in Port Hawkesbury at the Granville Green, these are also free outdoor concerts, and held during July and August.
July 1st Canada 150 Birthday Celebrations, celebrated in most of the communities around Richmond.
The Strawberry Festival on July 9th at the St. Georges Community Hall in St. Georges Channel.
July 09 – The Strawberry Festival in Johnstown.
July 9-16 Lobster R’ Us Seaside Lobsterfest in St. Peter’s, with lots of events taking place for the whole family.
July 13th to 16th Festival on the Lake in Sampsonville
July 14-16 Rocky Bay Irish Festival in Rocky Bay.
July 15th Célébrations de la fête nationale de l’Acadie will take place at La Picasse, in Petit de Grat.
July 21-23 Traditional Pow Wow Chapel Island
July 22 Codstock LeNoir Landing, Arichat
July 27-30 L’Ardoise Acadian Days Festival L’Ardoise
July 27-31 St. Anne’s Mission in Chapel Island
July 31– August 6 Nicolas Deny Days in St. Peter’s
August 02 Annual Auction in aid of MacAskill House Museum
August 4-6, Tall Ships Regatta St. Peter’s
August 4-6 Lennox Passage Harbourfest D’Escouse
August 05 Fourchu Funday
August 6 Swim The Canal St. Peter’s
August 9-13 Festival Acadian de Petit de Grat
August 11 Shark Derby in Petit de Grat
August 12 Grand River Daze in Grand River
August 18 Johnstown Milling Frolic
August 18-20 Bluegrass and Old Time Country Music Festival
Isla Madame.
The Point Michaud Surf Classis has always brought a lot of interest to our surfing community and usually takes place the second to last weekend in August.
August 26 –Sept 3 River Bourgeois Festival
September 8-10 Cape Breton Paddlefest in Arichat.
September 15-17 St. Peter’s Pirate Days in St. Peter’s.
October 6-14 Celtic Colours Traditional Music Festival St. Peter’s
November 25-26 Festival of Trees

The Trina Samson Dance School's Island Steppers take Top Marks at the 5678 Showtime Dance Competition and Progress to the World Championship Dance Competition in British Columbia

The Island Steppers of the Trina Samson Dance School

Just in! Trina Samson Dance School Dancers of Richmond County, Nova Scotia have taken top marks at the 5678 Showtime Dance National Competition in Wolfville on May 7th. The Dance troop will now proceed to the World Championship Dance Competition in British Columbia the end June. Congratulations to their amazing dance instructor Trina Samson and to the dancers on their incredible performance!!!! If you get a chance to take in one of their performance, do so, you will not be disappointed.

The 6th Annual Music Camp on the Canal Returns to St. Peter's June 2 to June 4th, Register Now For A Great Music Experience!

The 6th Annual Music Camp will take place in St. Peter’s from June 2^nd to June 4^th. Come and join in the Music Camp weekend experience.

Beginning with a Welcome reception & jam session on Friday evening, your weekend includes:

- a Saturday full of workshops (4 x 1.25 hrs each); lunch and supper included.

- a Saturday night All Star Concert featuring our faculty (primo seating for campers).....

- followed by a KitchenRackets jam session with campers and players from the community

- Sunday morning, one more workshop or Band Lab practice.

- Sunday luncheon, followed by the finale Band Lab Showcase (which could include you!). 

There is more throughout the weekend: jam sessions, on-site instrument repairs, close-up encounters with your instructors and fellow players from far and near; local artisans market, an instrument swap & sale, great food - remember 2 lunches and a supper are included.

Amazing selection of workshops - almost 50 to choose from.

Full weekend registration including everything is a bargain at $250. Participants with non-musical partners can bring them along for all the food and fun (and the square dance workshop) for just $120. 

A la carte workshops also available

If you would like to take just one or a few workshops you can sign up 'a la carte' and pay by the workshop at $40 each. You can pick your workshops and pay for them in advance on line. 

 All Star Concert

This annual concert has become recognized as one of the finest showcases of authentic traditional and innovative Celtic style music anywhere on Cape Breton Island, featuring our stellar Music Camp Faculty, and hospitality of the St. Peter's Lions Hall. Tickets can be purchased in advance on line. 

Who should come?

Any amateur musician, at any level of accomplishment, who wants to learn some new stuff, close-up and 1 on 1 with some incredible teachers. We have a Celtic orientation with a world view. Also, you should come if you want to meet and play with like-minded musicians. We have an 'accompanist' program for partners who don't play an instrument. Campers are all ages from grade school students to senior citizens. (You don't have to camp, most people stay at the Inn or local hotel, although there is camping available - and we offer a 'home billet' program - more info TBA in the coming weeks).

 Some other features of the Music Camp Weekend:

Artisans market on site including a used instrument swap and sale (you can bring your own surplus instruments if you want to sell);

On site luthier offering minor repairs, adjustments and instrument assessments;

Close-up encounters with your instructors and fellow players from far and near;

Great food - lunches on Sat and Sun and Saturday evening supper are included. Catered by Bras d'Or Lakes Inn's talented chefs.

To register or to get more information on the Music Camp go to http://www.kitchenrackets.org/music-camp-on-the-canal-2017/

April 28th, the Island Steppers hosts A Night To Remember with Psychic Medium Tracey Fuller at the Island Nest Restaurant in Arichat.

Tracey Fuller, Psychic Medium appearing at "A Night To Remember with Tracey Fuller".

If you enjoy an evening of entertainment, the Trina Samson Dance School will be offering a Night To Remember with Tracey Fuller, Psychic Medium, as part of their fundraising campaign for dancers going off to dance competitions.

For something a little different in the line of entertainment, you will want to mark April 28th on your Calendar as The Island Steppers invite you to join them for an experience with a psychic Medium. This event will take place at the Island Nest Restaurant in Arichat at 7pm. Fuller, originally from Kent, England, now resides in Sydney since 2014, where she uses her gift to bring peace of mind to her clients, by connecting them with loved ones who have passed on. Although she has always had this gift, it is only since 2000 that she has been sharing her gift professionally. If you have ever wanted to connect with someone from the spirit world, this maybe your chance. Come out and witness first hand this amazing ability, Fuller comes highly recommended!  Tickets are $30.00 advance sale and $35.00 at the door. Call for tickets now, by calling 902 631 2563 (Trina), 902-227-8196 (Gail), 902-631- 3828 (Karen) or 902-623-1435 (Kelly).  Get your tickets early as seating is limited.

Amazing Entertainment Comes to LaPicasse with The Crossing Borders Concert -April 24th, Don't Miss This Incredible Combination of Young Talent!!!

Crossing Borders Concert

If you enjoy an evening of great entertainment, with lively music and step dancing, you will definitely want to take in the Crossing Borders Concert at LaPicasse in Petit de Grat on April 24th at 7pm. Admission will be $5.00 per person or $10.00 per family for advance ticket sale or at the door on the night of the concert $7.00 per person or $12.00 per family. For tickets call 902-226-0149.

Centre La Picasse is proud to present the 25 dancers from the Trina Samson Dance School along with the 23 talent musicians from the Young Tradition Touring Group from Vermont and their mentors, coming together for one very special evening of traditional music and dance. Get your tickets early, as you will not want to miss this event.

Joining the Samson Dance School will be the Young Tradition Touring Group from Vermont, made up of a very talented young group of entertainers from the US. We are very lucky that during their tour in Canada, we have been given the opportunity to showcase our neighbouring countries talented young performers, performing along side some of Cape Breton's best Traditional Step dancers, from the Samson Dance School. This will be the US groups only stop in Richmond. Special thanks to LaPicasse and the Municipality of Richmond for their support with the concert.

Trina Samson Dance School Captures Spotlight at the Limelight Dance Competition - Dance and Culture at It's Best!!!!

The Island Steppers

Visitors coming to Cape Breton are interested in many features of Cape Breton and want to see, hear and enjoy them all.  Two things high on their list of things to take in are entertainment and culture. This weekend we were lucky enough to see two of these factors come together at the Limelight Dance Competition in Halifax, where dancers from the 4 Atlantic provinces vied for gold. Cape Breton was represented by the Trina Samson Dance School from Richmond County, and they definitely covered all the bases for both entertainment and culture. Yes, Cape Breton Step dancing is one of our most popular forms of entertainment while also showcasing our culture.

Those who watched the competition were not disappointed and the array of talent from this exceptional dance troop from the younger dancers to the Island Steppers, each performance was lively, unique and impressive. In total the dancers took home 1 Exclusive Gold, 3 Gold, 2 Silver and 2 Bronze, plus recognition awards and 2 entries into the Vault. Quite impressive. Congratulations to all the dancers and to their instructor Trina Hall Samson, who provided the girls with this amazing experience.

Trina Samson and the dancers from the Trina Samson Dance School

Samson is a dedicated dance teacher, who is admired and loved by all her students. She is a very talented choreographer, dancer and seamstress creating most of the costumes herself. Samson wants her dancers, to most of all enjoy the art of dance, it should never be a chore but an enjoyment that the dancers want to share with all those who watch their performances. And Samson encourages this by having her dancers perform at many community events and festivals throughout the year. Through her efforts, the cultural performance of traditional step dancing will be here for locals and visitors for future generations. The dancers next performance will be at the Easter Fun Day Breakfast which starts at 9:30am at the Lions Hall in St. Peter’s on April 14^th.

St. Peter's Pirate Days Back Again for Another Great Event - September 15th to 17th.

The Annual St. Peter’s Pirate Day will be back again this year, with fun for everyone. It is scheduled to take place from September 15^th to September 17^th. Visitors to our fair village can expect to see a slightly different look than what they were expecting, as businesses deck their store fronts out in full Pirate flare. During the two days of celebrations, don’t be surprised to see some unsavory looking characters wondering the village streets, but be assured this is all in fun and a great photo opportunity as well. It might be a good idea to brush up on a little pirate lingo, just to add to the fun.

St. Peter’s has a rich historic past, but some may not realize that we did have some pirates visit our shores in years gone by and plundering of our businesses may not have been just an old mans tale, as recalled in a post by Al Calder who shared a little history about St Peter's.

During Pirate Days this past summer several people mentioned that there were never pirates who actually raided St Peter's. After reading an essay prepared by the late Harvey MacEwen, in 1976 on the Kavanagh family 1777 to 1923, in which MacEwen mentions, "In spite of several raids on his business (Lawrence Kavanagh Jr.) at St. Peter's by New England privateers, in which severe losses were suffered, the Kavanagh business prospered greatly".

After reading this post, I guess it is true to say that we are celebrating a little bit of our own colourful past. I am sure that this years Pirate Days will be a huge success, and I look forward to seeing what organizers of the event have in store for us.

One great idea, the committee has come up with this year to help with the cost of the event is The St. Peter's Pirate Days Treasure Chest, which is a new game of chance. Those who would like to play and to support the St. Peter’s Pirate Days can register a number, which will be yours for the next 52 weeks. Play your number for $2.00 each week, half of the bounty collected each week is the prize payout. For more details on the draw and to register stop in at B&E General Store in St. Peter’s.  Follow Pirate Days on Instagram @stpeterspiratedays and Twitter @Stpeterspirates.