Festival & Events
Festival & Events
Of course, no Cabot Links stay is complete without enjoying the sights and sounds of the island’s rich heritage. These established Cape Breton festivals and events are wonderful opportunities to take in local culture, experience authentic Gaelic singing and dancing, and see the best of up-and-coming performers, headlining acts, and international artists. Plus, when it comes to Cape Breton, you can pretty much guarantee that every event is accompanied by stunning backdrops and the warmest of welcomes. For more information or recommendations on nearby performances, talk to our Reservations Team.
KitchenFest!
Consider this your invitation to the biggest kitchen party in Cape Breton. This island-wide, traditional music festival is a celebration of all things local, with ceilidhs, concerts, dances, and hospitality at its finest. KitchenFest! has over 150 artists performing in a variety of venues, including community halls, legions, pubs, and civic centres.
June 30 – July 8, 2023
Inverness Gathering
Inverness has a wonderful tradition of welcoming friends and family home during the summer for “Gathering Week”. It’s a fun-filled week with something for just about anyone, including boat rides, square dances, children’s games, a parade, and much more, including a road race with a kids’ run and a 5K run or walk (3.1 miles).
Broad Cove Scottish Concert
A hit with locals and visitors alike, the annual Broad Cove concert is the largest outdoor Scottish concert on the island. It highlights Cape Breton’s unique culture through tradition, music, and dance, and features a blend of up-and-coming talent and major headliners including the likes of Natalie MacMaster and Gordie Sampson.
July 30, 2023
Margaree Highland Games
Rich with tradition, this wonderful outdoor family event is hosted in the beautiful Margaree River Valley—a meeting place of Scottish, Irish, and Acadian cultures. The Games blend traditional heavy events with bagpiping and highland dancing, running races, children’s activities, and much more.
August 11 – 13, 2023
Celtic Colours International Festival
For nine days in October, Cape Breton is home to a unique celebration of music and culture, when Celtic Colours presents dozens of concerts, workshops, and community events across the island. See international performers join local artists in a festival that showcases the colourful nature of Cape Breton and its people.
October 6 – 14, 2023
Doug Fraser Art Gallery
Located on the hills between Cabot Links and Cabot Cliffs you will find renowned oil on canvas artist, Doug Fraser, working at his easel or in his sculptural garden. Born and raised in Inverness, Doug is known for his deep connection to this place, the culture, the landscape and seascape, and its light. Drop by for a conversation through art and a stroll through the sculptural garden. You may find yourself leaving with a little bit of authentic Cape Breton, either in the form of a painting, or simply an experience. Transportation to and from the gallery can be arranged through Doug himself.
Travel time: 8 minutes.
“Once your booking is finalized, you will then have until 72 hours prior to the scheduled activity to cancel or modify without penalty. Any cancellations within 72 hours of the booking will have a fee charged to your guest account at 50% of the full rate. Any bookings canceled within the 24-hour period will be charged to your guest account at full rate.”