Exploring New Brunswick Weekend

New Brunswick Day, celebrated on the first Monday of August, is a great time to explore the province's natural beauty and vibrant culture. From live music and delicious food to family-friendly activities, there's something for everyone. Here's an introduction to some of the best things to do during the New Brunswick Day weekend:

- Fredericton, the host of the official celebrations, offers a range of entertainment and activities, including children's activities, Emancipation Day events, and a spectacular fireworks display over the Westmoreland Bridge.

- O'Connell Park in Sussex provides a fun-filled day with BBQ, games, face painting, and live music.

- Youghall Beach Park in Bathurst presents live performances, face painting, inflatables, and food trucks for a perfect day by the water.

- Arts and Culture Park in Quispamsis hosts live music, giant games, and a David Wallace walk and talk.

- Beresford Beach in the Chaleur Region invites visitors to join in the celebrations with ceremonies and live music by BIG BAD PARTY BAND!.

- Area 506 in Saint John showcases the best of New Brunswick music, culture, and goods on the beautiful waterfront.

- Good Friend Festival in Dalhousie offers a gigantic beach party, market days, parades, dances, and a spectacular fireworks display.

- Old Sow Theatre Festival in Saint Andrews presents sea-centric stories and celebrates the Maritime Provinces' cultural heritage.

- Tracadie Aquafest provides a 10-day festival with rock music, family activities, and fireworks.

Try some local craft beer

New Brunswick is home to a plethora of breweries, brewpubs, and taprooms, making it a great place to sample some local craft beer. Here are some places to try:

The Joyce Pub

The Joyce Pub in Fredericton claims to have the largest selection of local New Brunswick craft beer and cider in the world. With 36 taps, their ever-changing selection means that no two visits are the same. The pub offers a traditional atmosphere with comfortable seating, making it easy to settle in for the evening. Their menu features Canadian pub classics and signature dishes, as well as wine and cocktails. They also host 'Meet the Maker' nights, where a small group of brewers come to mingle, answer questions, and tell their stories, giving guests a chance to experience a brewery visit without leaving town.

Graystone Brewing

Graystone Brewing is a craft brewery located in downtown Fredericton, established in 2016. With 23 taps, they serve a variety of local beers and ciders in their atmosphere-centred taproom. Graystone is inspired by adventure and focused on quality beer and unique experiences. Their mission is to instil their spirit of adventure into everything they do and inspire those who enjoy their products.

Picaroons Brewing Company

Picaroons Brewing Company is another Fredericton-based brewery. They offer a variety of beers, including IPAs, ales, stouts, and seasonal brews. You can visit their taproom to sample their beers and learn more about their brewing process.

Big Axe Brewery

Big Axe Brewery, located in Nackawic, is a family-owned and operated craft brewery. They offer a variety of beers, including IPAs, ales, and stouts, and often have special releases and collaborations with other local breweries. You can visit their taproom to sample their beers and enjoy the atmosphere.

Tide & Boar Brewing

Tide & Boar Brewing, located in Moncton, is a popular spot for craft beer enthusiasts. They offer a wide range of beers, from IPAs and pale ales to stouts and porters. In addition to their beer, they also have a menu featuring locally-inspired dishes and a variety of events, such as live music and trivia nights.

These are just a few of the many great places to try local craft beer in New Brunswick. Whether you're looking for a traditional pub atmosphere or a modern taproom, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Learn to cook a New Brunswick dish

Brunswick Stew is a delicious, hearty dish that is perfect for a cold winter's day. It is a traditional Southern dish that is said to have originated in Brunswick County, Virginia, or Brunswick, Georgia—both locations claim to be the birthplace of this tasty treat! It typically includes a mix of tomatoes, corn, beans, and shredded meat, with chicken being the most common choice today. However, you can also use beef chuck or pork shoulder for added flavour and fat. For a more authentic experience, you could even use game meat such as squirrel or rabbit.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham bone (preferably smoked)
• 4 pounds stewing hen
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or several sprigs of fresh thyme
• 6 stems of fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 14.5 ounces of canned diced tomatoes
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 medium potatoes, cubed
• 2 cups of butter beans (baby lima beans)
• 19 ounces of canned whole kernel corn, drained
• 18 ounces of bottled sweet and smoky barbecue sauce (Kraft original recommended)
• 2 teaspoons of salt, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or 1 red chilli pepper, chopped (optional)

Method:

• Put the ham bone in a large cooking pot with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
• Add the chicken, bay leaves, thyme, parsley, celery, onions, and peppercorns. Simmer, uncovered, until the chicken is tender (approximately 1 1/2 hours).
• Remove the chicken and set it aside until it's cool enough to handle.
• Remove and discard the bones and skin from the chicken. Finely shred the meat and return it to the broth.
• Add the onion, butter beans, corn, potatoes, diced tomatoes, barbecue sauce, catsup, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add more water if needed to create a thick, soupy consistency.
• Cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the vegetables are tender.

Brunswick Stew is typically served as a side dish alongside barbecued chicken or pork. It pairs well with baked beans, potato salad, saltine crackers, or freshly baked cornbread. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Go to a festival

New Brunswick is a hub of festivals, with something for everyone to enjoy. If you're looking for a festival to attend during the New Brunswick Day long weekend, here are some options:

AREA 506 Festival

This festival takes place on the New Brunswick Day long weekend on the Saint John waterfront. It celebrates the best of New Brunswick music, culture, and goods.

SappyFest

An annual three-day festival held during the New Brunswick Day long weekend in the heart of downtown Sackville. SappyFest features music, art, poetry, and performances from regional, national, and international artists.

Bon Ami Festival

The Bon Ami Festival is the largest festival in Dalhousie, with activities over 10 days. It includes a gigantic beach party, market days, a parade, beauty pageant, dances, sporting events, restaurant specials, and a spectacular fireworks display.

Tracadie Aquafête

A 10-day festival with rock music performances, family activities, fireworks, and more.

Campobello FogFest

Campobello Island's FogFest is an annual music and arts festival. It features a range of music to suit every taste, from classical and jazz to folk, rock, and country.

Miramichi Folksong Festival

Miramichi Folksong Festival is a four-day festival featuring authentic, traditional, and contemporary music for the whole family.

Fredericton Craft Beer Festival

Although this festival takes place in the following year, it is worth mentioning. It is a celebration of craft beer with various breweries showcasing their products.

These are just a few examples of the festivals that take place in New Brunswick during the long weekend. Each festival offers a unique experience and is a great way to celebrate New Brunswick Day with family and friends.

Visit Fredericton

Fredericton, New Brunswick's riverside capital, is a small city that feels like a big one. It is rich in history and culture, with a unique blend of urban and natural attractions.

Day 1

Start your day with a visit to the Fredericton Boyce Farmers Market, one of Canada's top community markets. Open every Saturday morning, you'll find an array of local produce, crafts, sweets, and entertainment.

Afterwards, explore the Fredericton Trails, a 120km network of paths along the St. John River. These trails are perfect for walking, running, hiking, or biking, offering tranquil wooded paths, gravel trails, and paved roads with glorious scenery.

In the afternoon, step back in time at King's Landing, a living history museum with original buildings from the 1820s to 1920s. Chat with costumed characters, try your hand at the forge, and admire the historic buildings and farm animals.

Day 2

Begin your day at the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, which brings together art and community in a dynamic cultural environment. Enjoy the exhibits, take a guided tour, and browse the boutique for souvenirs.

Next, visit the Fredericton Botanic Garden, a 53-acre botanical garden with interpretive trails, flower displays, and the Woodland Fern Trail for a peaceful nature walk.

In the afternoon, head to the Fredericton Region Museum, located in the heart of downtown. This small history museum exhibits the region's history through artefacts, taxidermy, and an orientation video.

Day 3

Start your morning with a relaxing stroll through Odell Park, a 333-acre park with ancient trees and winding trails. If you're visiting during the winter, there's also an outdoor rink for skating.

Afterwards, explore the historic Garrison District, which includes the Legislative Assembly Building and Officers' Square, one of Canada's Top 10 Public Spaces. During the summer, this area hosts outdoor concerts, the Changing of the Guard ceremony, and various festivals.

In the afternoon, visit Science East, a unique science centre located in the former York County Jail. Enjoy hands-on exhibits, daily science shows, and Atlantic Canada's only outdoor science playground.

Day 4

Start your day with a Wolastoq Boat Tour, offering private and public kid-friendly tours along the St. John River. Enjoy sailing, snacks, and an open bar on board.

Afterwards, visit the New Brunswick Sports Hall of Fame, an interactive museum showcasing the province's sports history. Try out the 5-in-1 sports simulator and explore the galleries featuring exhibits and memorabilia.

In the afternoon, discover Christ Church Cathedral, a majestic Anglican cathedral consecrated in 1853 and designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1983.

Where to Stay

Fredericton offers a range of accommodation options, including:

• Radisson Kingswood Hotel & Suites: Located in the Kingswood Entertainment District, offering standard rooms and extended-stay options with modern amenities.
• Carriage House Inn: A heritage house featuring antique-inspired décor, satellite TV, and free Wi-Fi.
• Chateau Fredericton: Provides comfortable accommodations, modern amenities, and facilities like an indoor pool and fitness centre.
• By the River B&B: Less than 1 km from Old Government House, featuring a private beach area, garden, terrace, and bicycle rentals.
• Best Western Plus Fredericton Hotel: Located just off the Fredericton Bypass, with an indoor pool, hot tub, and free hot breakfast.

Go to the beach

New Brunswick is home to over 50 beaches, so you'll be spoilt for choice! Here are some of the best sandy beaches the province has to offer:

• Parlee Beach, Shediac: One of North America's finest beaches, Parlee Beach has the warmest saltwater in Canada and a Blue Flag International Eco-Certification. It's the perfect place to relax, with supervised swimming and daily sports activities.
• Kelly's Beach, Kouchibouguac: With 25km of golden sand dunes, Kelly's Beach is a haven for sand seekers. Pack a picnic, build sandcastles, or simply kick back and relax.
• Aboiteau Beach, Cap-Pelé: Follow the boardwalk down to this stretch of shoreline, where you can splash in warm saltwater and stretch out on soft sands. For nature lovers, the marshes behind the dunes are home to waterfowl and shorebirds.
• Youghall Beach, Bathurst: This supervised saltwater beach is nestled between the majestic Bathurst Harbour and the beautiful Bay of Chaleur. Stroll along the boardwalk, or settle in at a picnic table after grabbing a snack at the cantina.
• Miscou Beach, Miscou Island: This gorgeous, sandy beach is hidden away on Miscou Island. While you're there, check out the historic Miscou Lighthouse—and don't forget your binoculars, as Miscou Island is known as a birdwatcher's paradise.
• Val-Comeau Beach, Tracadie: Enjoy panoramic views at this 2km stretch of golden sand, backed by substantial dunes and washed by the constant ebb and flow of breakers from the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
• Grande-Anse Beach, Grande-Anse: This unsupervised, sandy beach is hidden between rocks that have been sculpted by the waves. Amenities include a picnic area, volleyball court, and playground for children.
• Dennis Beach, Waterside: Located in the sheltered Bay of Fundy, this beach boasts incredible views and small coves that make it feel like a personal hideaway. Enjoy rock pooling, kayaking, and swimming in clean, chilly waters. There's also a 7km trail nearby for hiking and nature spotting.

Remember to check each beach's website for up-to-date information on amenities, lifeguard services, and any applicable admission fees.

Frequently asked questions