Gathering of the Clans & Canada Day 2026
75th Anniversary Celebration — Pugwash, Nova Scotia
Welcome to the 75th Gathering of the Clans
For 75 years, the Village of Pugwash has welcomed families, visitors, musicians, dancers, athletes, and heritage enthusiasts to celebrate Canada Day through the spirit of Scottish tradition.
On Wednesday, July 1, 2026, the Gathering of the Clans returns with a full day of festivities, competitions, music, food, and community pride along the beautiful Northumberland Shore.
This milestone year honours our past while building a vibrant future for our community.
Event Highlights — July 1, 2026
Main Parade
Theme 2026: “Gathering of Generations — Together in Tradition, Strong in Spirit”
➡ Register your float, group, or vehicle: Parade Registration
Pipes & Drums Competition (ACPBA Sanctioned)
Solo piping, solo drumming, and full pipe band competition.
➡ Register as a solo competitor or pipe band: Pipe & Drum Registration
Heavyweight Games
Watch athletes compete in iconic Scottish events — caber toss, stone put, hammer throw, and more.
Highland Dancing
Hosted by the Pictou County Highland Dance Association.
➡ Register as a dancer: Highland Dance Competition
Artisan & Food Market
➡ Apply to be a vendor: Vendor Application
Classic Car Parade & Show
Classic, antique, custom, and specialty vehicles join the parade and remain on display afterward.
➡ Register your vehicle: Classic Car Registration
Kids Zone
Inflatables, games, and family activities for children of all ages.
Licensed Beer Garden (19+)
Operated under Special Occasion License. ID required.
Evening Concert
Live performances at Eaton Park featuring:
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Randy Mac brings pure East Coast fire — from Johnny Cash to Neil Young and everything in between.
If you love real music, this is your moment -
Butterfly & the Mad Hatters are rolling into Pugwash with high‑energy hits and a show that gets the whole crowd dancing.
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Aaron MacDonald ECMA‑winning songwriter is bringing the heart of Cape Breton to Pugwash!
Americana, roots, country — and stories that stay with you long after the last note. -
The Irish Descendants The East Coast icons are coming to Pugwash!
Get ready for powerhouse vocals, wild energy, and true Newfoundland spirit as The Irish Descendants hit the stage on July 1.
This is the Celtic party you don’t want to miss.
Fireworks Over Pugwash Harbour
A breathtaking end to the 75th Anniversary celebration.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Support one of Nova Scotia’s most historic cultural events.
Festival Map
Parking & Road Closures
Road Closure (Approved)
Water Street and surrounding festival area 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Parking Locations
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School parking lot
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Street parking outside closure zone
Accessibility Parking
Designated accessible parking near Eaton Park.
Admitssion & Wrisbands
Contact
Christie Blackie Village Clerk & Treasurer / Events Coordinator 📞 902‑243‑2946 📧
Follow Us
Facebook Community Page: Pugwash Gathering of the Clans
