Life in Nova Scotia Archives - Keith Kucharski, RE/MAX REALTOR®

Oct 16 No Comments

South Shore Holiday Markets 2024

Author: Keith Kucharski

Categories: Life in Nova Scotia,South Shore

Embracing the holiday spirit along the scenic South Shore begins with a visit to one of its many craft markets. These events offer a chance to find truly unique, handmade gifts while giving your support to talented local artisans and small businesses.

From intimate gatherings at community schools to expansive, multi-day showcases, you’ll uncover everything from creative decorations to mouthwatering holiday treats, all crafted with care. If you’d like to see your craft fair featured here, send me an email at keith@keithkucharski.com.

The Mom Market South Shore x Mahone Bay Centre
Sunday, November 3, 10am
Mahone Bay Centre, 45 School Street, Mahone Bay

Merry Little Christmas Market
Saturday, November 9, 10am to 3pm
44 School Street, New Germany

Island and Barrington Fire Hall Christmas Craft Market
Saturday, November 9, 10am to 2pm
Island and Barrington Passage Fire Hall, Barrington

12th Annual Artists of White Point Show & Sale
Saturday, November 9 and Sunday, November 10, 10am to 4pm
75 White Point #2 Road, Hunts Point

Christmas in Petite
Saturday, November 16 and Sunday, November 17, 10am to 4pm
5573 HWY-331, Petite Riviere

Christmas Craft & Vendor Market
Saturday, November 9, 10am to 4pm
Pinehurst Community Hall, 3485 Highway 10

2nd Annual Christmas Market & Food Drive
Saturday, November 16, 10am to 4pm
Oakhill & District Fire Department

Lockport Christmas Market
Saturday, November 16, 10am to 3pm
Lockport Fire Hall

Riverport Christmas Market
Saturday, November 16, 9am to 2pm
Riverport Community Centre, 79 Lower LaHave Road

Bridgewater Baptist Church Craft and Bake Sale
Saturday, November 16, 9am to 2pm, soup lunch starting at 11am
564 Glen Allen Drive, Bridgewater

Third Annual Country Christmas Market
Saturday, November 16
3210 Cornwall Road, Upper Cornwall

St. Margaret’s Bay Largest Christmas Sale
Saturday, November 16, 10am to 2pm
St. Luke’s United Church, 5374 St Margaret’s Bay Rd

The Mom Market South Shore x Bridgewater Best Western
Sunday, November 17, 10am
527 Highway 10, Bridgewater Best Western, Bridgewater

Brooklyn’s Holiday Market
Saturday, November 23, 10am to 2pm
3960 Lighthouse Rte, Queens

Frosty Fair Vendor Market
Saturday, November 23, 5pm to 8pm
15813 HWY-3, Hebbville

Twas the Month Before Christmas Market
Sunday, November 24, 11am to 3pm
CAMS Gym, 204 Duke Street, Chester

Christmas in the Barn in Shelburne
Sunday, November 24, 10am to 2pm
15 Anne Street, Shelburne

Santa Paws Holiday Market
Sunday, November 24, 10am
1190 Conquerall Mills Rd, Bridgewater

Liverpool Fire Dept Ladies Auxiliary Annual Christmas Craft Sale
Sunday, November 24, 10am to 2pm
520 Main Street, Liverpool Fire Hall, Liverpool

Christmas by the Sea
Friday, November 29, 5pm to 9pm and Saturday, November 30, 10am to 5pm
Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, 68 Bluenose Drive, Lunenburg

Christmas at the Barn #1
Saturday, November 30, 9am to 1pm
#57 Hwy 3, Hubbards

Hebbville Academy’s Countdown to the Holidays Vendor Market
Saturday, November 30, 10am to 2pm
16147 Highway 3, Hebbville

Christmas Sale & Food Sale
Saturday, November 30, 10am to 1pm
Milton Baptist Church, Milton

Cozy Christmas Market
Saturday, November 30, 10am to 2pm
Chester Yacht Club, Chester

Merry Mahone Bay Market
Saturday, November 30, 10am to 3pm
Mahone Bay Centre, 45 School Street, Mahone Bay

Martin’s Point Night Market #1
Saturday, November 30, 4pm to 8pm
6925 Highway 3, Chester

Christmas at the Barn #2
Saturday, November 30, 9am to 1pm
#57 Hwy 3, Hubbards

Holiday Market
Sunday, December 1, 1:30pm to 4:30pm
77 Exhibition Drive, Bridgewater

Martin’s Point Night Market #2
Saturday, December 7, 4pm to 8pm
6925 Highway 3, Chester

St. Margaret’s Bay Largest Christmas Sale
Saturday, December 7, 10am to 2pm
St. Luke’s United Church, 5374 St Margaret’s Bay Rd

Lunenburg Christmas Craft Festival
Saturday, December 7, 10am to 5pm
Sunday, December 8, 10am to 4pm
Three locations! Lunenburg Community Centre, Bluenose Academy, Curling Club

Privateer Holiday Market
Saturday, December 7, 9am to 1pm
Best Western Plus, 63 Queens Place Drive, Liverpool

Holly Jolly Christmas Market
Saturday, December 7, 4pm to 8pm
891 Barss Corner Road, Barss Corner

Happy shopping, and Happy Holidays!

Oct 07 No Comments

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!

Sep 18 No Comments

Nova Scotia’s Fall Colours

Author: Keith Kucharski

Categories: Annapolis Valley,Buying in Nova Scotia,Life in Nova Scotia

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.

Aug 06 No Comments

Eat like an East Coaster

Author: Keith Kucharski

Categories: Life in Nova Scotia

The East Coast is not only celebrated for our breathtaking landscapes and friendly locals but also for our distinctive and delicious cuisine. From hearty seafood dishes to sweet indulgences, our traditional maritime recipes offer a flavourful glimpse into our heritage. I want to share with you some beloved Nova Scotia classics you’ll find in restaurants and home kitchens throughout the province, beyond the traditional fish and chips or lobster rolls.

Hodge Podge
Hodge podge is a true Nova Scotian staple. It’s a hearty medley of fresh, local vegetables, traditionally featuring potatoes, carrots, green beans, and corn. What sets hodge podge apart is its creamy, buttery sauce made from milk or cream, which envelops the vegetables in a luscious blanket of flavor. Traditionally, hodge podge is enjoyed during the peak of the harvest season when vegetables are at their freshest. It is delicious in its simplicity and is typically found in home kitchens instead of on a restaurant menu, but the aptly named HodgePodge Eatery in Lunenburg has it on the menu in mid to late summer.

Blueberry Grunt
A dessert with roots in the early Acadian settlers’ kitchens, blueberry grunt is a sweet treat that features juicy blueberries and a soft, biscuit-like topping. The name “grunt” comes from the sound the dish makes while it cooks. This dessert is perfect for showcasing Nova Scotia’s wild blueberries, which are small, sweet, and packed with flavour.

Rappie Pie
Rappie pie, or râpure, is another Acadian dish with deep roots in the history of our French-speaking communities. This hearty casserole showcases the resourcefulness and culinary traditions of the early Acadians, using simple ingredients like grated potatoes and meat to create a dish that is both rustic and satisfying. Traditionally, the preparation begins by grating potatoes, then squeezing out the liquid and replacing it with broth, which gives the dish its unique texture. Layers of seasoned meat—often chicken or pork—are added, and the pie is baked until golden brown, forming a deliciously crispy crust over a soft, savoury filling. You can find rappie pie on some restaurant menus or in the frozen section of many NS grocery stores. In my opinion, the best place to eat a rappie pie is to attend an event at the Congrès mondial acadien 2024, or at La Cuisine Robicheau in Clare.

Oat Cakes
Nova Scotia oat cakes are a delightful, rustic treat that reflects our Scottish heritage. These simple yet deliciously crumbly square cookies are made with oats, flour, butter, and a touch of brown sugar, resulting in a hearty, slightly sweet snack that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea.

Dulse
Dulse is a nutrient-rich red seaweed harvested from the cold waters of the Bay of Fundy. While its briny flavor can be an acquired taste for some, dulse is widely available across Nova Scotia in its dried form as a salty, chewy snack. Definitely worth a try for the adventurous eater!

Donairs
No list of Nova Scotia classics is complete without mentioning the donair, a Halifax-born favourite that has become iconic across the province. This deliciously messy street food consists of spiced ground beef cooked on a rotisserie, thinly sliced, and served in a warm pita. What sets the donair apart is the signature sweet donair sauce, made from condensed milk, vinegar, and garlic powder, which perfectly complements the savoury meat. Typically topped with diced tomatoes and onions, donairs are a late-night staple, particularly in Halifax, where the dish was first created in the 1970s. You can find it at the famous King Of Donair, or at most pizza places in even the smallest towns.

May 21 No Comments

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.

Feb 22 No Comments

Making Maple Syrup in Nova Scotia

Author: Keith Kucharski

Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia,South Shore

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.

Feb 07 No Comments

Hobby Farming in Nova Scotia

Author: Keith Kucharski

Categories: Annapolis Valley,Life in Nova Scotia,Moving to Nova Scotia,South Shore

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

Dec 11 No Comments

Take a Polar Bear Dip in Nova Scotia

Author: Keith Kucharski

Categories: Life in Nova Scotia

Have you ever done a Polar Bear Dip?

Taking a dunk in a chilly lake or ocean in the winter is a rite of passage if you’ve moved to Nova Scotia, especially if you’ve moved from somewhere land-locked.

When we bought our rural Nova Scotia acreage in 2010, the former owner spent a great deal of time telling us stories about our place. Because it was formerly a campground, the property had an old restaurant, a derelict mini-putt course, and a history of having been famous for its annual New Year’s Day Polar Bear Plunge. A few years ago, the former owner dug out some of his photos to share with us, here’s one of the gems.

There are believed to be numerous health benefits to cold water swimming. For us, we cut a hole in the ice and go for a jump each January 1 (or some years just run right in if the lake hasn’t frozen over) because it’s a fun way to celebrate the new year, and it pays homage to the history of our home.

Polar Bear Dips in Nova Scotia

Want to participate in a community Polar Bear Dip? Here are a few Nova Scotia Polar Bear Dips we’ve heard are a lot of fun.

Dec 01 No Comments

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!

Posts

Category: <span>Life in Nova Scotia</span>

South Shore Holiday Markets 2024

Annapolis Valley Holiday Markets 2024

Nova Scotia’s Fall Colours

Eat like an East Coaster

Unique Things to do in the Annapolis Valley

Making Maple Syrup in Nova Scotia

Hobby Farming in Nova Scotia

Take a Polar Bear Dip in Nova Scotia

Polar Bear Dips in Nova Scotia

Little Free Libraries in the Annapolis Valley

Cut Out Sugar Cookies

Polar Bear Dips in Nova Scotia