Social for Persons with Visual Impairment
A social gathering for people with visual impairment held at the Arichat New Horizons Club at 2:30pm. Contact the venue for more details about activities and accessibility.
Strait Area, Cape Breton: What's On July 20–26, 2026
The Strait Area turns up the volume this week as three-time Juno winner Ashley MacIsaac Concert Series — Richmond County brings his electrifying Celtic fiddling to Richmond County, while Tuesday evening fills with live Acadian music at the Tuesday Island Tunes - Daniel Leblanc concert on Isle Madame.
🎵 Live this week
Tuesday Island Tunes - Daniel Leblanc
Live music series held Tuesday evenings at 6:30 pm at the St. John's Centre for the Arts in Arichat, on Isle Madame. Daniel LeBlanc, an Acadian multi-instrumentalist, performs fiddle, mandolin, and guitar blending rock, Cajun, Celtic, bluegrass, and traditional music. Admission is by donation at the door, and refreshments are served.
Kitchen Party in Arichat
Live music and dancing event held at the New Horizon Center in Arichat. Check the venue's website or call ahead for current dates, times, and admission details.
Port Hawkesbury Ceilidh at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre
Live traditional music and dancing happens Tuesday nights at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre, featuring fiddle, piano, bagpipes, and local performers. Shows run 7:30-9pm and cost $20 per person. All ages welcome.
Morning Coffee in St. George's Channel Hall
A casual gathering over coffee at St George's Channel Hall. Come for conversation and to meet others in the community.
Tea in the Museum
Light refreshments and informal gatherings happen regularly at the museum's café space. Check ahead for specific dates and times, as hours vary by season.
Ashley MacIsaac Concert Series — Richmond County
Cape Breton-born fiddler Ashley MacIsaac comes home to Richmond County for a multi-day concert series running July 22–27. A three-time Juno Award winner, MacIsaac broke into the international spotlight in 1995 with the double-platinum album Hi™ How Are You Today? and its breakout hit "Sleepy Maggie," featuring Gaelic vocals by Cape Breton singer Mary Jane Lamond. Since then his repertoire — rooted in the centuries-old fiddle traditions of his native Creignish and the Cape Breton Gaelic style — has carried him to stages across Canada and around the world. Local audiences will recognize the high-energy bowing and step-dance flair that made him one of the island's most internationally celebrated musical exports.
📍 Suggested itinerary
A summer week in the Strait Area rewards those who pace themselves. Start Tuesday afternoon with the warm community spirit of the Social for Persons with Visual Impairment at the Arichat New Horizons Club at 2:30 p.m., then make your way to the St. John's Centre for the Arts in Arichat for Tuesday Island Tunes - Daniel Leblanc at 6:30 p.m., where Acadian multi-instrumentalist Daniel LeBlanc performs fiddle, mandolin, and more. Round out the evening at the Kitchen Party in Arichat at the New Horizon Center at 7:00 p.m., or head up to Port Hawkesbury for the weekly Port Hawkesbury Ceilidh at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre at 7:30 p.m., where local musicians fill the room with fiddle, bagpipes, and step dancing.
Wednesday morning offers a gentler pace. Drop in to the Morning Coffee in St. George's Channel Hall at 10:00 a.m. for coffee and easy conversation with locals — a fine way to get the inside word on the area. In the afternoon, Tea in the Museum at 2:00 p.m. pairs tea, coffee, and treats with a dose of local heritage. After that, lace up your boots and head to the Ceilidh Coastal Trail (part of Celtic Shores Coastal Trail), a 22-kilometre linear trail running from the Canso Canal to Long Point — ideal for a late-afternoon walk with sea air and coastal views. Wednesday evening belongs to Ashley MacIsaac Concert Series — Richmond County at 7:00 p.m., a highlight of any Cape Breton summer.
Thursday afternoon brings another chance to catch Ashley MacIsaac at the Ashley MacIsaac Concert Series — Richmond County at 3:00 p.m. Before the show, consider a short detour to Embree's Brook Falls, an easy 1.7-kilometre hike to a six-metre waterfall — the kind of refreshing stop that makes a hot July afternoon memorable. For a longer outing with open water and golden light, Ghost Beach offers a 7.5-kilometre return trail through natural terrain to a remote shoreline.
For dining in Port Hawkesbury, Miller's Seafood & Chophouse serves fresh local seafood and steaks on a summer patio overlooking the Strait — well suited to a celebratory evening after a concert. Papa's Pub and Eatery is the spot for craft pizzas and Canadian cuisine with a relaxed pub atmosphere. Visitors staying the week will find comfortable rooms at the Maritime Inn Port Hawkesbury right in town, while Dundee Resort & Golf Club in West Bay offers lakeside kayaking, paddle boats, and championship golf for those who want a full resort experience. Campers can pitch a tent at Battery Provincial Park Campground in Saint Peter's, with 53 sites, hiking trails, and a saltwater beach overlooking St. Peter's Bay. For a unique perspective on the region's waters, Bras d'Or Lake Boat Tours out of St. Peter's cruises the UNESCO Biosphere lake — one of the most scenic outings in all of Cape Breton.
History seekers can add the Jerome Point Lighthouse to their itinerary — originally constructed in 1883, the rebuilt lighthouse stands as a quiet testament to the Strait Area's seafaring past and makes for a scenic stop along the coastline.
🥾 Worth the drive
Ceilidh Coastal Trail (part of Celtic Shores Coastal Trail)
This 22-km trail runs from the Canso Canal to Chisholm's Brook along the eastern shore, with surfaces ranging from gravel to hard-packed beach. Cell service is available, and dogs are permitted on leash. The route passes through tide-washed sections, abandoned rail bed, and coastal views with interpretive panels about local history and culture.
Ghost Beach
A 7.5 km crushed stone and natural surface trail along the Strait of Canso with interpretive panels about the historic Inverness and Richmond Railway (1901-1980s). The narrow route between the causeway and water can feel exposed when wind and waves are heavy. Dogs are permitted off-leash.
Embree’s Brook Falls
A 6-meter waterfall accessible via a 1.7 km easy hike from Port Hawkesbury. The trail crosses a brook on a sturdy bridge and wooden stairs before reaching a viewing deck overlooking a ravine, then continues to the main fall carved into shale. The waterfall flows best after heavy rain or during spring melt; watch for a worn side path on your left near the trail intersection to reach the overlook.
Jerome Point Lighthouse
This square wooden lighthouse was built in 1883 and rebuilt in 1956 without its original attached dwelling. It marks the entrance to St. Peter's Canal National Historic Site, where tidal locks connect the Atlantic Ocean to Bras d'Or Lake. The lighthouse sits at Battery Provincial Park on Highway 4 near the St. Peter's swing bridge.
🍽️ Where to eat & stay
Miller’s Seafood & Chophouse
Casual dining with a professional touch. Adjoining Maritime Inn Port Hawkesbury, Miller’s offers a casual relaxed atmosphere, with summertime patio dining. Our menu features a variety of local flavours. Start with a delicious seafood appetizer, such as our homemade seafood chowder or crab cakes. Then choose from the wide variety of dishes on our main menu – from steaks and ribs to salmon and mussels – or opt for the nightly feature, carefully chosen and prepared by our culinary team. Port Hawkesbury is a perfect base from which to start your Cape Breton vacation, and Miller’s offers meals for every taste along with the professional, friendly service you will come to expect in Nova Scotia.
Dundee Resort & Golf Club
Dundee Resort & Golf Club is located in West Bay, Cape Breton Island where you are surrounded by rich forests, lush lawns, a championship golf course and the brilliant Bras d’Or Lakes. Spend the day golfing at our world-class course or visit our onsite Lakeside Adventure Centre and enjoy paddle boats, kayaks, canoes, tennis, volleyball and beach swimming. We are just a short drive from the legendary Cabot Trail and the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, a preserved and recreated French fortification dating back 300 years. Our accommodations include 61 hotel rooms (Queen, King) with balcony (view of golf course or the Bras d’Or Lakes), some with fireplace or jacuzzi; 38 one- and two-bedroom cottage units (Twin, Double; light housekeeping facilities) with a large deck, lake view; and all with 4-piece bath. No cribs; however, we do have playpens. Cots are available for rooms in the hotel only. Air conditioning and Wi-Fi (in hotel rooms only). Enjoy complimentary scheduled summer recreation activities (July – August) including canoeing and kayaking from our lakeside adventure centre. Guest features include dining room and pub; pro shop; banquet and conference facilities; 18-hole golf course; indoor and outdoor pools; sauna; walking trail; canoe, kayak, and paddleboats; and barbecues. Small pets are permitted in the cottages at a minimal charge. Check out our golf, family and all-inclusive packages! All major credit cards are accepted.
Maritime Inn Port Hawkesbury
4-star property in Port Hawkesbury with a guest rating of 4.2/10 (927 reviews).
Amenities include Wheelchair accessible, Conference space, Cross-country skiing nearby, Hiking/biking trails nearby, Breakfast available (surcharge), Laundry facilities, Garden, Free newspapers in lobby.
Bookable directly through CapeBretonFirst.
Battery Provincial Park Campground
Battery Provincial Park is situated on a hillside overlooking St. Peter’s Bay adjacent to the St. Peter’s Canal National Historic Site. The park entrance is on the east side of the bridge at the canal. Battery features a small saltwater beach (unsupervised), an interpretive display, picnic area with ocean frontage, and 3.4 km / 2.1 mi of hiking trails. Jerome Point Lighthouse is located on the entrance road to Battery Provincial Park. Nearby: Point Michaud Beach Provincial Park, Nicolas Denys Museum (St. Peters), and LeNoir Forge Museum (Arichat). Campground accommodations include: 53 open and wooded overnight sites (4 with electrical service, 3 with electrical and water, 46 unserviced). Park amenities include: flush toilets, showers, disposal station, fire grills, wood, and ice. Boat launch nearby. Wireless Internet access available at the administration building. This is a Campground Host park. Leashed pets permitted. Detailed Information: Outdoor activities: Fishing, Hiking, Kayaking, SnowshoeingDirections: On east side of Canal Bridge.
Bras d'Or Lake Boat Tours
Cruise the UNESCO-designated Bras d'Or Lake Biosphere from the historic St. Peter's Canal. A relaxed, narrated tour through one of the largest inland seas in North America, with eagles, seals, and history at every turn.
What to expect
- Covered and open-air seating on a stable mid-size tour boat
- Guide commentary on the canal, lock, and Mi'kmaq history of the lake
- Snacks and drinks usually available on board
- Family-friendly pace — kids stay engaged
Don't miss
- Watching the lock cycle as you enter or leave the canal
- Bald eagles patrolling the shoreline — almost guaranteed
- The view back toward Battery Provincial Park
Good to know
- Seasonal operation, typically June through early October
- Reservations recommended in summer
- Restrooms on board; bring sunscreen and a windbreaker
- Free parking near the canal
Pair it with
- A walk across the historic St. Peter's Canal lock
- The Nicolas Denys Museum in town
- A stop at Battery Provincial Park for a swim and picnic
Papa’s Pub and Eatery
Our restaurant offers a unique dining experience that will leave your taste buds tantalized. Our cuisine is inspired by the best of both worlds – traditional Canadian dishes with a modern flare. Our cuisine is sure to leave you wanting more. Our chefs have crafted a unique menu that includes everything from Starters, Main Course to Dessert. Our wine list is extensive and includes both local and international wines. Our Papa’s Pub and Pizzeria is located in a beautiful town of Port Hawkesbury. Our wait staff is attentive and polite and our atmosphere is warm and inviting. We look forward to serving you and making your dining experience a memorable one.
From Acadian fiddle sessions on Isle Madame to the crackling energy of an Ashley MacIsaac performance, the Strait Area delivers a full week of Cape Breton culture, coast, and community. Come for a night, stay for the week — there's always more to discover.