The best in family fun: Nova Scotia

Gathering the Clans
July 2
Party like the Scots do as the sights and sounds of piping, drumming, highland dancing and games surround you. The Grand Parade, which winds its way along town streets, has a few surprises for the kids, including clowns, horses and fire trucks.
$5; children under 5 free. Eaton Park, 135 Water St., Pugwash. 902-243-2946; pugwashvillage.com

Pictou Lobster Carnival
July 6-8
Marking the end of the area’s fishing season, this signature feast brings a music, a children’s parade, bed races and, of course, odes to the beloved crustacean, including a lobster banding competition.
Prices vary. 71 Front St. (In the CN Station), Pictou. 902-485-5150; pictoulobstercarnival.ca

Argyle Abuptic Festival
August 4-11
Immerse yourself in the heritage of several East Coast communities that lie where the river meets the sea. Dig into fried fish, take a boat tour, cheer on the crate racers, participate in the family scavenger hunt, or sign the kids up for the youth fishing tournament.
Free admission. Camp Cove Wharf, 81 Camp Cove Road, HWY #3, Argyle. 902-762-3138

Action Week Festival
August 4-12
The promise is in the name — kids can participate in 30 activity stations, such as a teddy bear picnic, princess tea party, sing-a-longs and sports tournaments.
Prices vary. On the Sydney Boardwalk, 320 Esplanade, and various other locations, Sydney. 902-563-5510; actionweek.com