NOVA SCOTIA – Although lobster is widely known as summertime delicacy, lobster fishing season in Nova Scotia takes place in winter when lobster fishers take advantage of the cold Atlantic Ocean waters. This February 1 through 18, the Canadian province pays homage to the tasty crustacean with the 2019 South Shore Lobster Crawl, a savory three-week celebration of lobster-themed experiences and tastings.
In February, visitors can “crawl” along the Atlantic coast from Barrington, the Lobster Capital of Canada, to Peggy’s Cove to taste a variety of dishes from lobster thermidor to lobster mac n’ cheese; tour a lobster pound; sample lobster-infused ale; discover the art, music, stories, and traditions shaped by the lobster industry; and much more. Highlights of the calendar of special events include:
- February 1 – 18: Lobster Roll Crawl – Along the South Shore, travelers can taste 13 varieties of lobster rolls at participating restaurants such as Quarterdeck Beachside Villas and Grill, Capt. Kat’s Lobster Shack, Fo’ç’ílse Tavern, Grand Banker Bar and Grill, and others. Featured on the restaurant menus daily, each lobster roll showcases its own gourmet twist, whether it’s traditionally prepared or made on a specialty bun topped with house-made aioli.
- February 1-3: Lobster Fisher for the Day – At White Point Beach Resort, guests can earn serious bragging rights by stepping into the boots of a Nova Scotia lobster fisher. The two-night Great Canadian Lobster Fishing Feast experience includes: an exclusive meet and greet with Captain Crouse and fisherwoman Sarah Allen featuring Nova Scotia’s signature wine, Tidal Bay and lobster croquettes; Lobster 101 Orientation to learn about the fishing equipment and gear; half-day sunrise lobster fishing expedition aboard a 37-foot lobster boat, helping the crew measure and band the lobsters, as they haul in dozens of traps; an executive chef-prepared ocean-side lobster feast made with the freshly caught crustaceans and wine pairing; two nights in a one-bedroom oceanfront cottage; daily breakfast; and more. Price starts at $699 CAD per person, based on double occupancy.
- February 2: Groundhog Day with Lucy the Lobster – Visitors to Barrington, the Lobster Capital of Canada, can watch as Lucy the Lobster crawls out of the Atlantic Ocean at 8:00am near Cape Sable Island Causeway in search of her shadow. Southwest Nova Scotia’s twist on Groundhog Day, Lucy the Lobster joins the likes of groundhogs such as Wiarton Willie in Ontario and fellow Nova Scotian Shubinacadie Sam as they each offer up their future forecast – when will winter end, and when will spring arrive. The town of Barrington will continue the lobster celebration all day with various activities including a lobster-themed breakfast, lobster plant tours, guided tours of the lobster sculptures, and more.
- February 9: Lobster Crawl Craft Beer Festival – Featuring an array of craft breweries and cideries, the Lobster Crawl Beer Festival in Bridgewater offers a sample of the best of Nova Scotian craft beers including a few lobster-infused variations. The event will also include food trucks, games and activities, and live music. Ticket prices range from $30 to $50 CAD. To purchase, click here.
- February 9 and 14: Lobster Season Surfing – Winter offers ideal conditions for surfing in Nova Scotia. Adventure seekers can dive in and ride the waves of the frosty Atlantic waters, where more than 40% of Canada’s lobsters are fished, with a winter surfing lesson at White Point Beach Resort. The two-hour lesson includes a winter wet suit, surf board, and guidance from the professional instructors at East Coast Surf School. Price is $90 CAD per person for hotel guests; $100 CAD per person for day guests.
Nova Scotia’s South Shore Lobster Crawl is commissioned by the South Shore Tourism Co-operative and its members and partners. For a full list of events and updates, visit www.lobstercrawl.ca.
For more information about the province, visit Nova Scotia or call 1-800-565-0000.