If you are looking for a fun event to share with your friends and family this summer, I suggest you not miss the 35th annual Eastern Passage Cow Bay Summer Carnival, taking place August 1 to 8. This week-long celebration of our community takes place at various locations and features picnics, a carnival ground, a fireworks display, a blessing of the fishing fleet, a seniors’ tea, a talent show, a kitchen party and of course the always popular parade.
I’ve lived in this community for over 25 years and I’ve been participating in the carnival since the moment I arrived. Growing up in Shelburne, my family was always more than willing to help out when a float needed to be built. So when I moved here I jumped on a opportunity to build a Summer Carnival parade float for the Eastern Passage Athletic Association, a 10-foot tall paper mache sneaker, and I haven’t looked back since. As a small business owner I always made a point to include my preschool in carnival activities. And subsequent to that, I served on the carnival’s local organizing committee for many years including time as Chair. Currently I still serve in the role of past chair.
Each and every year the Eastern Passage Cow Bay Summer Carnival has been a highlight for me and my family and I don’t expect this summer to be any different. Let’s just say I’m looking forward to it.
I mention my personal history with the carnival to highlight the connection people across Nova Scotia have with the longstanding traditions that take place each and every year in our communities. These events are the backbones of villages, towns and cities because they bring neighbours together to celebrate things of shared importance. It’s why so many people are willing to invest their time and energy, not to mention some of their hard earned money on an annual basis.
The Eastern Passage Cow Bay Summer Carnival is just one of several great community events held each year in our region. Just last week the first annual McNab’s Island Picnic gave people an opportunity to experience the magnificence of the historic harbor jewel. And on Sept. 11 and 12 the people and resources of Cole Harbour will be showcased at the third annual Cole Harbour Festival – another event I’m looking forward to.
The province through the Department of Tourism Culture and Heritage and the Department of Health Promotion and Protection works closely with local organizers and municipalities to ensure the goals of communities are reached with these events. Our government recognizes that the people in our communities are the heart of Nova Scotia. The way we live and celebrate, our hospitality and our welcoming nature is not only draws tourists to our great province, it’s also what brings people who have left Nova Scotia back home.
For a full list of events taking place across Nova Scotia this summer visit www.novascotia.com.
