Nova Scotia - Where Gaelic Traditions Flourish

Nova Scotia (New Scotland) is a wonderland of Gaelic language, music and culture, and attracts people from around the world each summer and fall.

Located on the east coast in the Canadian Maritimes, Nova Scotia has its own Office of Gaelic Affairs, which promotes the Gaelic language year round through educational and community-based programs.

Director Lewis MacKinnon says, "Nova Scotia is the only place outside of Scotland where (Scottish) Gaelic is spoken, giving us a unique advantage for cultural tourism."

MacKinnon says islanders are embracing Gaelic as a way or reconnecting to the cultural, social and historical networks that also strengthen ties between generations. Over 2,000 people speak Gaelic in Nova Scotia, with several hundred children taking lessons in the school system. And three universities - St Mary's University, St. Francis Xavier University and Gaelic College, Cape Breton - have Gaelic courses in their curriculums.

In addition, you'll find plenty of great music, dancing, storytelling and songs in Nova Scotia, especially on Cape Breton, the heart of Gaelic culture in the province. See below for some upcoming festivals.

August 5, 6, 7
Festival of the Tartans
Antigonish
festivalofthetartans.ca

August 21
Festival of Cape Breton Fiddling 2010
Gaelic College of Celtic Arts and

Crafts
St.

Ann’s
capebretonﬁddlers.com

October 6-18
Celtic Colours Festival
celtic-colours.com

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