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Category: <span>Annapolis Valley</span>
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Annapolis Valley Holiday Markets 2024

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia

Visiting holiday craft markets in the Annapolis Valley is a great way to begin feeling the festive spirit. These markets offer a unique opportunity to shop for one-of-a-kind, handcrafted gifts while supporting local artisans and businesses.

From tiny events in small schools to large, multi-day events, you’ll find handmade decorations, delectable treats, and incredible artisan craftsmanship at these shows. If you’d like to add your craft fair to this list, please email me at keith@keithkucharski.com.

Harvest Craft Fair (over 170 tables!)
Saturday, October 19, 9am to 3pm
Horton High School, Greenwich

Fall into Christmas Craft Fair
Saturday, October 19, 10am to 4pm
948 Highway 1, Deep Brook

Youth Makers Fall Market
Saturday, October 19, 10am to 2pm
South Berwick Community Hall, 4518 Highway 1, South Berwick

Acadian Teas Holiday Market
Saturday October 26, 10am to 2pm
Upper Clements Hall, 2951 Highway 1, Upper Clements

Christmas In The Country
Saturday, November 2, 10am to 3pm
1582 Black Rock Road, Waterville

Christmas Craft Sale
Saturday, November 2, 9am to 2pm
4404 Black Rock Road, Waterville

Christmas on the Sissiboo Craft Market
Saturday, November 2, 10am to 3pm
4079 Evangeline Trail Weymouth NS, Weymouth

Craft Fair
Saturday, November 2, 9am to 1pm
Falmouth Community Hall, 147 Falmouth Back Road, Windsor

Berwick School Craft Fair
Saturday, November 2, 10am to 3pm
Berwick Elementary School

Kingston Lion’s Club Christmas Craft Fair
November 2 & 3, 10am to 4pm
Kingston Lion’s Hall, 1482 Veterans Lane, Kingston

Lunn’s Mill Crafty Craft & Collectibles Show
Sunday, November 3, 10:30am to 2:30pm
515 Carleton Road, Lawrencetown, NS

Include Me! Annapolis Valley Craft Fair
Sunday, November 3, 10am to 3pm
Berwick Lions Cub, 250 Veterans Drive, Berwick

Christmas at the Vineyard
Sunday, November 3, 11:00am to 4:00pm
Beaver Creek Vineyard
496 Carleton Rd, Lawrencetown Village

Christmas in the Apple Capital / The Mom Market
Saturday, November 9, 11am to 3pm
Berwick Fire Department 296 Commercial St, Berwick

Christmas Craft Fair
Saturday, November 9, 10am to 2pm
Berwick Town Hall Gym, Berwick

Port Williams Local Vendor Fair
Saturday, November 9, 10am to 3pm
Port Williams Community Centre

Lake Paul and Lake George Craft Sale
Saturday, November 9, 10am to 3pm
Lake Paul and Lake George Community Centre, Aylesford

Handmade Haven Holiday Craft Fair
Saturday, November 9, 10am to 2pm
Coldbrook Lions Hall, 6667 HWY-1, Kings

Village of New Minas Holiday Craft Fair
Sunday, November 10, 10am to 3pm
Louis Millet Community Centre, New Minas

Acadia Christmas Craft Expo
November 15, 16, 17
550 Main Street, Wolfville

14 Wing Craft & Vendor Sale
Saturday, November 16, 10am – 2pm
Greenwood Community Centre, Building 110, Church Street, Greenwood

SPCA Christmas Craft & Vendor Sale
Saturday, November 16, 9am – 2pm
Windsor Legion, 35 Empire Lane, Windsor

Holiday Craft Market
Saturday, November 16, 9am – 1pm
Lower Granville Hall, 3551 Granville Road, Granville

14 Wing Greenwood Craft & Vendor Sale
 Saturday, November 16, 10am to 2pm
Greenwood Community Centre, Build 110, Church Street, Greenwood

Holiday Craft Market
Saturday, November 16, 9am to 1pm
Lower Granville Hall, 3551 Granville Rd

Somerset School Christmas Craft Fair
November 16 & 17
Somerset & District Elementary Schoolm 4339 Brooklyn Street, Berwick

Clarence Country Market Christmas Market
Sunday, November 17, 10am to 3pm
3337 Clarence Road, Clarence

AV Parents Christmas Market Craft Fair
Saturday, November 16, 9am to 3pm
Avon View High School, 198 Irven Drive, West Hants

Mochelle Christmas Craft Sale
Saturday, November 16, 9am to 2pm
Mochelle Community Hall, 718 Highway 201, Mochelle

Maritime Expresss Holiday Market
Friday, November 22, 3pm tp 9pm
325 Main Street, Kentville 

Bear River Winter Craft Fair @ Oakdene Community Centre
Saturday, November 23, 10am to 3pm
Oakdene Community Centre, Bear River

Firehall Christmas Craft Fair
Saturday, November 23, 10am to 3pm
Bear River Fire Hall, Bear River

Country Christmas
Saturday, November 23, 9am to 1pm
Forester’s Community Hall, Bear River

Christmas Bazaar
Saturday, November 23, 9am to 1pm
Bear River Legion, Bear River

Christmas Market
Saturday, November 23, 9am to 2pm
East Baptist Church, Bear River

Artist Pop-Up
Saturday, November 23, 10am to 3pm
Oakdene Community Centre, Bear River

North Mountain Tapestry 11th Annual Artisan Holiday Market
Saturday, November 23, 10am to 2pm
3201 Long Point Road, Harbourville

Girl Guides Craft and Vendor Sale
Saturday, November 23, 10am to 2pm
South Berwick Community Hall, 4518 Highway 1, South Berwick

Bridgetown Legion Christmas Market
Saturday, November 23, 10am to 2pm
20 Jeffrey Street, Bridgetown

Kingston Legion Christmas Craft Market
Saturday, November 23, 10am to 4pm
1472 Veterans Ln, Kingston

New Minas Christmas Craft Show
Saturday, November 23, 10am to 3pm
Louis Millet Centre, New Minas

Berwick Lions Christmas Craft Market
Saturday, November 23, 9am to 3pm
Kings Mutual Century Centre, 250 Veterans Drive, Berwick

Nichols Christmas Market
Saturday, November 23, 3pm to 7:30pm
3759 Highway Highway 1, Berwick

Christmas Craft Fair
Sunday, November 24, 10am to 3pm
Paradise Heritage Centre, 10307 Highway 1, Paradise

Annual MacDonald Museum Craft Fair
Friday, November 29, 5pm to 9pm
Saturday, November 30, 10am to 4pm
21 School Street, Middleton

Makers Vendor Market
Saturday, November 30, 10am to 3pm
Coldbrook Community Heritage Hall, 2833 Lovett Road, Coldbrook

Halls Harbour Fall Craft Sale
Saturday, November 30, 9:30am to 3pm
3586 Highway 359, Halls Harbour

Pop-up Market at Luckett Vineyards
Sunday, December 1, 11am to 4pm
Luckett Vineyards, 1293 Grand Pre Rd, Kings

Holiday Market in Support of FarmWorks
Sunday, December 1, 12pm
1966 White Rock Road, Wolfville

Handmade Haven It’s Almost Christmas Sale
Saturday, December 7, 10am to 2pm
Coldbrook Lions Hall, 6667 HWY-1, Kings

Holiday Pop Up Market
Saturday, December 7, 10am to 3pm
South West Hants Fire Station

Kentville Legion Christmas Craft and Vendor Sale
Saturday, December 7, 10am to 3pm
37 River Street, Kentville

Christmas Craft Fair
Saturday, December 7, 9m to 1pm
Scot’s Bay Community Hall

The Annapolis Valley is a treasure trove of holiday cheer and unique, handcrafted gifts waiting to be discovered. As you explore the charming holiday craft markets listed above, you’ll not only find special presents for your friends and family but also support local artisans and businesses. Embrace the holiday spirit and make this festive season memorable by visiting these delightful markets in the Annapolis Valley. Happy shopping, and Happy Holidays!

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Nova Scotia’s Fall Colours

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Buying in Nova Scotia,Life in Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia Fall Colours

Are you looking to experience Nova Scotia’s Fall colours? Autumn is without a doubt the most visually stunning season in Nova Scotia. The rolling hills and valleys are home to maple, birch, oak, beech and ash, which turn brilliant oranges, yellows, reds, and purples. The colourful canopy turns everyday tasks like driving to work, school, or home into a spectacularly exciting experience as you witness a new riot of colour at every turn.

Mid-October is the best time to catch the fall foliage putting on its peak performance. These are some of my favourite spots to catch the fall colours:

  • The Lookoff on the North Mountain in Canning. No need to bring hiking boots for this one, just pull into the roadside parking lot to enjoy the aptly-named Lookoff for a stunning, golden view of the Annapolis Valley and its many farms rimmed in yellows and red.
  • The most popular fall colours viewing location is undoubtedly the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton. There are dozens of hiking trails along the trail, but the scenery is equally gorgeous viewed from the car or the side of the road along this route. If you’re up for a hike, Franey Trail is my personal favourite. If you’re not up for the Franey, the Freshwater Lake Look-Off Trail is one of the shorter hikes on the Cabot Trail and offers incredible views of Ingonish Beach, Middle Head, Cape Smokey, and Freshwater Lake.
  • Kejimkujik National Park (or Keji, as the locals call it) features thousands of trees that are the perfect backdrop for a hiking or biking trip.
  • In HRM, Shubie Park is one of Dartmouth’s largest parks and home to huge maple, oak, and birch trees. This is a very popular dog-friendly park, with well-fed squirrels who have absolutely no fear of people.
  • The quaint seaside town of Lunenburg on the South Shore is transformed by Mother Nature in the fall, and you won’t have nearly as many tourists to dodge if you visit as the weather cools.

I hope you enjoy touring the province to see the gorgeous display. Nature-based experiences like this are just one of the things we love about raising a family in Nova Scotia.

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Unique Things to do in the Annapolis Valley

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia
Unique Things to do in the Annapolis Valley

Embark on a journey through the hidden gems of Nova Scotia, where unique experiences await at every turn! Is it your turn to plan a date night, a corporate team-building event, or a gathering with friends? Here are seven unique things to do in the Annapolis Valley.

Hands-On Fresh Pasta Making: Take an immersive Italian or Eastern European class that teaches you the art of making fresh pasta in a private kitchen in Granville Ferry (outside Annapolis Royal) with Hands On Fresh Pasta. You’ll be guided by expert chefs and learn to create a delectable dish like pelmini or ravioli from scratch, using locally sourced ingredients.

Plein-Air Picnic at Tangled Garden: Delight your senses with a visit to Tangled Garden, not too far a drive from Wolfville, where you can wander through enchanting gardens filled with herbs, fruits, and flowers.  Tangled Garden offers seasonal Plein-Air Picnics, where you can indulge in homemade treats, thoughtfully packed in hand-woven picnic baskets. Every element of their picnic is freshly prepared in their kitchen. Don’t forget to sample their unique and delicious herbal jellies and cordials, or buy a jar to take home with you.

Tidal Bore Rafting: Book a tidal bore rafting experience with Shubie River Wranglers. Experience the exhilaration of navigating waves reaching up to 4 meters (13 feet) high aboard a Zodiac boat. Encounter the unique water roller coaster formed by the incredible force of the Bay of Fundy’s highest tides transforming the Shubenacadie River. Skilled guides lead you through thrilling rapids as the incoming ocean reverses the river’s flow.

Take a Frenchys Road Trip: Any serious fan of the used clothing and household goods stores Frenchy’s and Guy’s Frenchys (similar names, different companies) has heard that the best locations are in the Valley, and have either done or dreamed of doing the Valley/South Shore loop. Check out my location list and tips for a successful Frenchys Road Trip.

Create a piece of art: Craft your own unique fused glass art at School Street Studio Glass in Hantsport. This hands-on activity necessitates no tools and is perfect for all ages. Our space is open to the public for DIY (“Do-It-Yourself”) fused glass art sessions, catering to both children and adults. Allocate at least 1-2 hours to immerse yourself in the creative process and produce your personalized artwork.

Take an Artist Walk: Many local artists in tiny Bear River participate in the Bear River Artists Walk, where local studios have open hours. Follow the signs in Bear River to locate the artists at work in their studios, and be sure to check the website for individual open times.

Visit Our Farmacy: Discover the charming allure of Our Farmacy in Bear River, a delightful haven that seamlessly blends a hobby farm experience with spa indulgence. Enjoy a visit to this adorable hobby farm where you can pet the animals and enjoy a spa with a steam room, sauna, and outdoor hot tub.

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Making Maple Syrup in Nova Scotia

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia,South Shore
Maple Syrup Tapping

Do you have maple trees on your property? Or considering buying a property that has mature sugar maple trees on it? While not as well known for its maple syrup and sugar shack tradition as Quebec, Nova Scotians as just as sweet on tapping maple trees.

As spring approaches, you can’t help but notice buckets hanging off the trunks of roadside maple trees.

Nova Scotia’s climate provides the perfect conditions for maple syrup production. The sap begins to flow as the days grow longer and the nights remain chilly. Typically, the maple syrup season in Nova Scotia runs from late February to early April, although the exact timing can vary depending on weather conditions. I like to wait until I’m consistently seeing daytime temperatures over above freezing before I tap our large maple tree.

While some larger hobby farms use modern tubing systems to gather the dripping sap, I just use metal taps and sap collection buckets I picked up from the Scotian Gold Country Store in Coldbrook.

Each day, I collect the sap and begin the process of boiling the sap down into syrup. I do this outside on a propane boiler, taking the sap inside to finish the last little bit under my watchful eye on the stove. Each year I typically end up with 3 to 4 litres of delicious, golden, maple syrup. We use it on pancakes, crepes, and other breakfast items, and I set aside a small amount to flavour whiskey with as well.

Even if you don’t have a maple tree on your property, by purchasing Nova Scotia maple syrup, whether from roadside stands, farmers’ markets, or specialty stores, you can directly contribute to the livelihoods of small-scale maple producers and help ensure the survival of this time-honoured craft.

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Hobby Farming in Nova Scotia

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia,Moving to Nova Scotia,South Shore
Hobby Farming in Nova Scotia

As a REALTOR® who specializes in the South Shore and Annapolis Valley area, arguably two of the prettiest places in the province, I’m often asked which area is better for someone wanting to buy land and build a hobby farm. The answer – it depends!

The Valley and the South Shore are two distinct regions, each with its own unique charm and characteristics. While both areas boast fertile soil and temperate climates, their microclimates and geographic features create diverse gardening conditions that offer gardeners both opportunities and challenges.

The Annapolis Valley: A Garden Oasis
Nestled between two mountain ranges, the Annapolis Valley is often referred to as the “breadbasket of Nova Scotia” for its fertile farmland and abundant agricultural output. Its microclimate benefits from the warming effect of the Bay of Fundy, creating milder winters and extended growing seasons. These favorable conditions make the Annapolis Valley a haven for a wide range of crops and gardens.

Climate: The Annapolis Valley experiences a maritime climate with mild, wet winters and warm summers. The moderating influence of the bay helps protect plants from extreme temperature fluctuations, allowing for early spring planting and a longer growing season.

Soil Quality: The valley’s soil is predominantly fertile and well-drained, offering ideal conditions for a variety of crops and gardens. Rich in nutrients and organic matter, the soil supports vigorous plant growth and yields abundant harvests.

Crop Diversity: From vineyards and orchards to vegetable gardens and flower farms, the Annapolis Valley boasts a diverse array of agricultural ventures. Fruit trees, such as apples, cherries, and peaches, thrive in the region’s temperate climate, while vineyards produce award-winning wines.

The South Shore: Coastal Gardening
Stretching along the Atlantic coast, Nova Scotia’s South Shore offers a contrasting gardening experience shaped by its maritime influences and rugged coastline. While characterized by cooler temperatures and shorter growing seasons compared to the Annapolis Valley, the region’s coastal beauty and unique microclimates present their own rewards for gardening enthusiasts. The closer you are to the coast, the more likely you’ll experience cool, foggy days over the bright sunshine of the Valley.

Climate: The South Shore experiences a cooler maritime climate with brisk sea breezes and higher humidity levels. Winters tend to be colder than in the Annapolis Valley, with shorter frost-free periods and a narrower window for gardening activities. Coastal gardening comes with its own set of challenges, including salt spray, strong winds, and soil erosion. Windbreaks and protective barriers can help mitigate these effects, while careful plant selection and site preparation are essential for success.

Soil Quality: Coastal soils in the South Shore can vary widely, ranging from sandy to loamy compositions. While sandy soils offer good drainage, they may require additional amendments to improve fertility and water retention. Organic matter from coastal vegetation contributes to soil health and structure.

Comparing the Two Regions

There’s no doubt that there are far more small, medium, and large-scale agricultural operations in the Valley than there are on the South Shore. This can mean more competition if you’re selling your produce, but it can also mean less opportunity to network with other farmers and build community. The Valley has more garden centres (here’s my top five), but the South Shore has a few very nice garden centres too.

There are plenty of homesteaders happily growing lovely gardens on the South Shore. Yonder Hills Farms is one of my favourites. Plus, land is often a little less expensive for similar properties, and the South Shore has truly spectacular sandy beaches not found in the Valley.

If you’d like to explore some of the communities in the Annapolis Valley, check out my YouTube channel, my Move to the Annapolis Valley website, or set up your custom search so you’ll receive email updates when properties are listed that meet your criteria.


Additional Resources for Hobby Farmers

THINKFARM provides introductory-level resources for starting a farm in Nova Scotia. This website has information on defining your farm vision, business planning, and regulations which apply to new farm businesses. It is a good starting point before accessing advisory services from the Department of Agriculture regional offices.

Perennia Food and Agriculture Corporation is a provincial development agency with the mission to support growth, transformation, and economic development in Nova Scotia’s agriculture, seafood, and food and beverage sectors. We are Nova Scotia’s only technical development agency focused solely on our food sector and maximizing its value.

Guide for BEGINNING FARMERS in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia Plant Hardiness Zone Map

Grow Southwest Nova Scotia

 

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Little Free Libraries in the Annapolis Valley

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia

As a real estate agent, I spend a lot of time behind the wheel, driving to meet clients, show houses, and taking listing photos or videos. I’ve explored all over my two focus areas, the Annapolis Valley and the South Shore. One thing I see a lot of, in addition to roadside stands, are little free libraries. These tiny book havens, often found in unexpected places, are so delightful to find.

Here are some of my favourite little libraries in the Annapolis Valley’s little library network.

The Woodland Trails Little Free Library, 32 University Avenue, Wolfville
Located at Acadia University, this little library is dedicated to the memory of Reg Moore a lifelong learner, educator, and gardener. The first books in the library were from Reg’s personal collection of gardening books.

The Little Bird Library, 210 Old Post Rd, Grand Pre
This whimsical little library was installed as part of the 2013 Uncommon Art Common Art program in Kings County.

The Little Red Schoolhouse Library, 8 Reagh Avenue, Middleton
This schoolhouse library sits on a repurposed antique school desk in the yard of an elementary teacher and her family. A true commitment to lifelong learning!

Learning on the Lane, 43 Lawrencetown Lane, Lawrencetown
What began as a small shelving unit is now a 4’x6’ shed that houses a little library and a community pantry!

The Annapolis Valley’s little libraries foster a love for reading, encourage connections between neighbours, and contribute to the unique charm of our region.

Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor exploring the area, take the time to seek out these hidden gems, or any others on this Little Free Library World Map, and you’ll discover a world of literary treasures waiting to be explored!

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Very Valley Gift Ideas

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia
Very Valley Christmas Gift Ideas

Have you been visiting the many Christmas craft markets in the Annapolis Valley this year? (If not, here’s a comprehensive list of the 2024 Annapolis Valley Holiday Markets or the 2024 South Shore Holiday Markets


Even if you can’t get to a market, you can still find some incredible handmade gifts that I think of as “Very Valley” gifts. Here are some of my favourites:

  1. Give the gift of peaceful serenity with the gift of a New Scotland Candle Co candle, made in Kentville.
  2. A custom illustration from Little Bluenose Illustrations would make a very personal gift, but artist Alice Lefebvre also offers whimsical prints of various Annapolis Valley scenes.
  3. Take a drive to Hall’s Harbour to visit Spiral Studio and select from beautiful pottery in earthy tones.
  4. As a woodworker myself, I appreciate the care and attention that goes into the cutting boards, charcuterie boards, and other wood crafts from Annapolis Valley Woodworks.
  5. Annapolis Valley Luffa uses luffa, a naturally formed fibre, to make sustainable body sponges, dish scrubbers, and more.

Consumables make really excellent gifts! Here are my favourite food and drink products from the Valley.

  1. Visit Sable Shortbread in Windsor for the most incredible melt-in-your-mouth shortbread.
  2. Sissibo Coffee in Bear River offers ethically sourced beans and roast them with precision and care. North Mountain Coffee in Berwick offers high-quality coffee in small batches on restored antique roasters that are between 80 and 100 years old. All coffees are expertly developed with traditional European roasting techniques, and both are small, family-owned and run businesses beloved by locals.
  3. The hot dilly cuke jelly is my favourite from Tangled Garden outside Wolfville, but they have plenty of other jams and jellies to choose from.
  4. I’m partial to the Apple Pie Moonshine produced by Still Fired Distillery outside Annapolis Royal. Have you tried their moonshine, vodkas or gins yet?
  5. If you’re near Lequille picking up moonshine, hit up the nearby Lequille Country Store for the best beef jerky in the province. (For real. People drive from Halifax just to get their jerky fix.)
  6. The Annapolis Valley has a dozen wineries, and nearly as many craft breweries. Pick up something delicious to drink, or a cool t-shirt or ball cap for a cool brewery makes a great gift.
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2023 Annapolis Valley Holiday Markets

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia
2023 Annapolis Valley Holiday Markets

It’s time!

The holiday season is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to embrace the festive spirit than by visiting Christmas craft markets in the Annapolis Valley. These markets offer a unique opportunity to shop for one-of-a-kind, handcrafted gifts while supporting local artisans and businesses. From tiny events in small schools to large, multi-day events, you’ll find handmade decorations, delectable treats, and incredible artisan craftsmanship at these shows.

Christmas In The Country
Saturday, November 4, 2023
1582 Black Rock Road, Waterville

Christmas on the Sissiboo Craft Market
Saturday, November 4, 2023
4079 Evangeline Trail Weymouth NS, Weymouth

New Minas Christmas Craft Show
Saturday, November 4, 2023
9489 Commercial St, New Minas

Berwick School Craft Fair
Saturday, November 4, 2023
220 Veterans Drive, Berwick

Kingston Lions Hall
November 4 and 5, 2023, 10-4
1482 Veterans Ln, Kingston

The Mom Market
Sunday, November 5, 2023
Berwick & District Volunteer Fire Department
296 Commercial St, Berwick

Annapolis Royal Winter Farmers Market
Every Saturday from November 13 to December 18, 2023
Annapolis Royal Fire Hall, 170 St. Anthony Street, Annapolis Royal

Christmas at the Vineyard
Sunday, November 12, 2023
Beaver Creek Vineyard, 496 Carleton Road, Lawrencetown

New Minas Christmas Craft Show
Sunday, November 12, 2023
Louis Millet Community Complex, 9489 Commercial St, New Minas

Crafty Craft Fair
Sunday, November 12, 2023
Lunn’s Mill, 515 Carleton Rd, Lawrencetown Village

Clarence Country Market Christmas Market
Sunday, November 12, 2023
3337 Clarence Road, Clarence

Holiday Express Market
Friday, November 17, 2023
325 Main Street, Kentville

Acadia Christmas Craft Expo
November 17, 18, 19, 2023
550 Main Street, Wolfville

Kentville Lions Holiday Market
Saturday, November 18, 2023
Kentville Lions Club, 78 River St, Kentville

14 Wing Greenwood Craft & Vendor Sale
Saturday, November 18, 2023
Greenwood Community Centre, Build 110, Church Street, Greenwood

Bridgetown Legion Christmas Craft Sale
Saturday, November 18, 2023
Bridgetown Legion, 20 Jeffery Street, Bridgetown

Somerset School Christmas Craft Fair
November 18 and 19, 2023
Somerset & District Elementary School, 4339 Brooklyn Street, Berwick

Dandelion Lane Holiday Photos & Crafts Market
Sunday, November 19, 2023
4035 Hwy 201, Bridgetown

Brickton Community Hall Holiday Craft Fair
Sunday, November 19, 2023, 12-3
12062 Nova Scotia Trunk 1, Lawrencetown

Kingston Legion Christmas Craft Market
Saturday, November 25, 2023, 9-4
1472 Veterans Ln, Kingston

Girl Guides Craft and Vendor Sale
Saturday, November 25, 2023
South Berwick Community Hall, 4518 Highway 1, South Berwick

Berwick Lions Christmas Craft Market
Saturday, November 25, 2023
250 Veterans Drive, Berwick

North Mountain Market 2023 Holiday Market
Saturday, November 25, 2023
3201 Long Point Road, Berwick

Landmark East School Craft Fair
Saturday, November 25, 2023, 10am to 2pm
Kentville Fire Hall

Lawrencetown Breakfast with Santa & Craft Fair
Saturday, November 25, 2023
Lawrencetown Consolidated School, 7 Middle Road, Lawrencetown

Avon Community Farmers’ Market Holiday Market
Sunday, November 26, 2023
West Hants Sports Complex, Windsor

Macdonald Museum Christmas Craft Market
December 1 and December 2, 2023
21 School St, Middleton

Cambridge Community Craft Sale
Saturday, December 2, 2023, 9:30am to 2pm
5961 Highway 1, Cambridge

Greenwich Fire Hall Christmas Craft and Vendor Sale
Saturday, December 2, 9am-3pm
9798 Highway #1, Wolfville

Annapolis Valley Farmers and Traders Holiday Market
Saturday, December 2, 2023, 9am to 2pm
Community Hub, Annapolis Royal

Olde Fashioned Christmas Craft Sale
Saturday, December 2, 2023, 9am to 3pm
Annapolis Legion, 66 Victoria Street, Annapolis Royal

Christmas Craft Market
Saturday, December 2, 2023, 9am to 3pm
Annapolis Royal Fire Hall, 5 Saint Anthony Street, Annapolis Royal

Festival Craft and Gift Fair
Saturday, December 2, 2023
New Ross Consolidated School, 4689 NS-12, New Ross

Christmas Country Craft Fair
Saturday, December 2, 2023
New Ross Legion Hall, 64 Forties Road, New Ross

Inglisville Christmas Craft Market
Sunday, December 3, 2023
1407 Inglisville Road, Lawrencetown

Ross Farm Museum Craft & Gift Market
Sunday, December 3, 2023
New Ross Farm, 4568 Highway 12, New Ross

West Brooklyn Community Hall Christmas Artisan Show & Sale
Sunday, December 3, 2023 from 11am – 4pm
410 West Brooklyn Mountain Road, Wolfville

Berwick Station Market
Sunday, December 3, 2023, 9am to 1pm
104 Front Street, Berwick

Bridgetown Regional Community School Craft Fair
Saturday, December 9, 2023, 9am to 3pm
25 Cromwell Court, Bridgetown

Deep Brook Waldec Lions Club
Saturday, December 9, 2023, 2pm to 4pm
Deep Brook Lions Hall
948 Highway 1, Deep Brook

Merry Christmas Craft Show
Saturday, December 9, 2023, 10am to 3pm
Coldbrook Lions Hall, 1416 South Bishop Road, Coldbrook

Christmas Craft Fair
Saturday, December 9, 2023, 9am to 1pm
Scot’s Bay Community Hall, 5796 Highway 358, Canning

Harbourville Christmas Market
Saturday, December 9, 2023, 10am to 2pm
Harbourville United Church, 3201 Long Point Road, Harbourville

Holiday Lights Night Market
Thursday, December 14, 2023, 5:30pm to 8:30pm
300 Commercial Street, Berwick

Craft Sale
Sunday, December 19, 2023
Lawrencetown Fire Hall, Lawrencetown

The Annapolis Valley is a treasure trove of holiday cheer and unique, handcrafted gifts waiting to be discovered. As you explore the charming Christmas craft markets listed above, you’ll not only find special presents for your friends and family but also support local artisans and businesses. Embrace the holiday spirit and make this festive season memorable by visiting these delightful markets in the Annapolis Valley. Happy shopping, and Merry Christmas!

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Apple Season in the Annapolis Valley

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia
Apple trees ready for picking

As the leaves begin to don their vibrant autumn colors, there’s a magical transformation that takes place in the Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia. Apple season in the Annapolis Valley kicks off in early September with the Bridgetown Ciderfest, the apple orchards come alive this month, filling the air with the sweet scent of ripe fruit and beckoning visitors to experience the joys of apple season. The trees have turned from branches loaded with blossoms and wooden crates waiting…

Birchleigh Farms - Apple season in the Annapolis Valley

Birchleigh Farms - Apple Trees in BlossomBirchleigh Farms - Apple Trees in Blossom…to heavily laden trees with the most delicious varieties of apples.

Apple season in the Annapolis Valley

The Annapolis Valley, often referred to as the “Valley,” is a picturesque region nestled between two mountain ranges, the North Mountain and the South Mountain. Located in the western part of Nova Scotia, this fertile valley is a haven for agriculture, and apple orchards play a pivotal role in its agricultural heritage.

Apple season in the Annapolis Valley typically spans from late summer to early autumn, making it a perfect time to visit. One of the most captivating aspects of this season is the incredible variety of apples you’ll find here. From the crisp and sweet Honeycrisp to the tart and tangy Cortland, there’s an apple to suit every palate. The Annapolis Valley boasts numerous apple orchards and farms, each offering its unique charm and apple-related experiences. My two favourites are Noggins Corner Farm Market, a beloved destination. Noggins Corner offers not only a vast array of apple varieties but also a corn maze, petting zoo, and other family-friendly activities.

I also love Dempsey Corner Orchards, outside Berwick. Known for their heirloom apple varieties, Dempsey Corner Orchards offers an authentic orchard experience. You can also enjoy a delicious meal at their on-site café.

Apple season in the Annapolis Valley
Dempsey’s Corner Orchard – Berwick

Closer to my home, Spurr Brothers Farm is an incredible farm market and hard cidery where you can enjoy a cider on tap or by bottle, listen to live music, and take photos in their pumpkin or sunflower patches.

Apple season in the Annapolis Valley Spurr Brothers
Spurr Brothers – Middleton

Apple season in the Annapolis Valley is a time of abundant beauty, delicious flavors, and cherished traditions. If you’re thinking of moving to the Annapolis Valley and growing your own apple trees, be sure to reach out, I’d be happy to help you find the perfect property.

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Annapolis Valley Corn

Author: Keith Kucharski
Categories: Annapolis Valley
Annapolis Valley Corn

The Annapolis Valley is renowned for its stunning landscapes, fertile farmlands, and bountiful harvests–especially Annapolis Valley corn on the cob. This classic mid-summer treat is one of the many crops that thrive in this agricultural paradise.

The Valley’s moderate climate, influenced by its proximity to the Bay of Fundy, creates an ideal environment for corn cultivation. Warm summers, ample rainfall, and well-drained soils provide the necessary ingredients for both early and late varieties of corn to flourish. Driving through the Valley you’ll see fields of brilliant green corn stalks waving in the breeze, and even small patches in people’s yards.

When Annapolis Valley corn is in season, it’s impossible to miss. You’ll see it piled up at roadside stands and farmers’ markets, and in local grocery stores with “local corn” signs. People absolutely have their favourite farms they buy from–in our house, we go out of our way to pick up corn from Newcombe’s Sweet Corn. They pick their corn every morning, so you know when you stop by their stand you’re getting the freshest cobs in the Valley.

Annapolis Valley Corn

I grew up in Alberta before moving to Nova Scotia in 2017, and like many Albertans, I loved the corn out of Taber, the Corn Capital of Canada. Taber is famous for its corn due to the large amounts of sunshine the area receives. They even hold an annual “Cornfest” in the last week of August! I was so happy to discover that Valley corn is just as sweet and delicious as Taber corn.

While I’m a big fan of a classic corn boil (just 2-3 minutes in the pot, don’t overcook it!), BBQ’d corn (try it slathered with butter and hot honey) or even eating it raw, I do have three recipes I use when I’ve bought a big sack of corn.

Here are my top three favourite corn recipes:

corn fritters

corn butter farro

 

 

Let’s connect! If you’re considering buying or selling property in Nova Scotia, I’m happy to chat, with no obligation. If you’d rather call or text, you can reach me at (902) 349-1022.

keith@keithkucharski.com

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