Cooler mornings, warm afternoons, and fewer lineups – September is a sweet spot for exploring Atlantic Canada. If you’ve been waiting for a quieter window to road-trip, now’s your moment. Use Coastal Inns in Halifax, Moncton/Dieppe, Sackville, Digby, or Antigonish as an easy home base, then mix a little festival fun with fresh-air time and great local food.
Halifax
From waterfront stages to country-lane farm days, early fall shines around the harbour.
- Prismatic Arts Festival (Sept 26–Oct 5): A multidisciplinary celebration featuring innovative work by Indigenous artists and artists of colour across the city.
- Fall Farm Fest at Hatfield Farm (Sun, Sept 28): Vendors, food trucks, kid-friendly activities, and a relaxed country vibe.
- Wine Fair Halifax 2025 (Sat, Oct 4): An evening for curious sippers and seasoned tasters at the Halifax Convention Centre.
Tip: Pair an event with a stroll on the boardwalk and a simple seafood supper – the harbour feels extra special this time of year.
Moncton / Dieppe
Back-to-school errands pair nicely with a night away. CF Champlain is right across from Coastal Inns Moncton/Dieppe, and downtown adds local flavour.
- Downtown Moncton Shop Hop (Sept 27, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.): Specials, pop-ups, and a chance to browse local favourites like Starving Artist, Working Class, and more.
- Avenir Centre Shows: Warren Zeiders (Oct 7) and Bryan Adams (Oct 11) bring big-room energy to fall nights.
- Make a day of it: Patio lunch, a riverfront walk, then one more stop for sneakers or notebooks before you head back.
Sackville, NB
Small town, big tradition.
- 23rd Annual Sackville Fall Fair (Sept 18–21): Carnival rides, Family Day, a parade, and Friday-night fireworks.
- Add a slow Saturday at the farmers market and a golden-hour walk on the Waterfowl Park boardwalk.
Digby
Sea breezes, changing leaves, and peak-season plates.
- Whale-watching runs through September into early October – a memorable way to greet fall on the Bay of Fundy.
- Colour is popping on trails around Point Prim and in Bear River (bring the camera).
- Local restaurants lean into seasonal seafood – an easy win after a day on the water. Downtown shops are also rolling out fall stock and end-of-summer sales.
Antigonish
Live music and easy evenings.
- Music Day in Canada at Candid Brewing (Sept 27): Emerging Canadian artists, giveaways, and a friendly taproom atmosphere.
Make the Most of the Shoulder Season
Mid-week stays mean quieter venues and more flexibility, and late September often brings ideal road-trip weather. Book directly with Coastal Inns for the best rates and local tips from staff who know the hidden viewpoints, the coziest cafés, and the fastest way to the good seats.
Pack a sweater, charge the camera, and follow the colour – we’ll have your key ready.
Call us toll free: 1 800 665-STAY (7829)
