Halifax 
Often called the Heart of the Annapolis Valley, Kentville is a breath of fresh air.
Close by to New Minas, Wolfville, and many other small communities, Kentville is a good base to explore the Valley. Kentville also has lots of activities that visitors can do in the town. Check out the 10 reasons to visit Kentville during October listed below.
1. Pumpkin People
Fall truly starts once the Pumpkin People arrive in Kentville. You can find displays around Kentville at many of the local businesses. Over 300 pumpkins are used to create these iconic fall displays. Don’t forget to pick up the book that started it all while you are in Kentville.
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2. Spend the Day on the Farm
Apples, pumpkins, and gourds, oh my. The Annapolis Valley is packed with U-Picks. While Kentville isn’t home to any, they are just a short drive away. Stirling Farm, Elderkin’s Farm, and Noggins Corner are the most popular u-picks. If you are looking for a less busy spot, head to Willowbank U-Pick or Gates U-Pick in Port Williams.
3. Hiking
Leaf peeking is a fall must, and Kentville trails offer a wonderful option to take in the spectacular fall views. Miner’s Marsh is a popular option because it is not a challenging hike and takes visitors by the stunningly beautiful wetland. The trail is made up of 1.7km of looped trails. If you are looking for something more challenging, then a hike around The Gorge is for you. It was initially built for mountain biking, but you can still hike the challenging trails. If you like waterfalls, head to Kentville Ravine Trail.
4. Apple Cider
While the rest of the world is going nuts for Pumpkin Spice, Kentville is enjoying freshly made Apple Cider. Everything from regular apple cider, hard cider, to apple cider-flavoured cookies, this popular flavour is everywhere. Kentville is home to Maritime Express, which offers premium ciders and serves up amazing local food.
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325 Main Street, Kentville
5. Charming Places to Stay
Kentville and the Annapolis Valley are best experienced over more than one day. Spend the night relaxing at one of the two Bed and Breakfasts right on Main Street, Kentville. There are a handful of motels and hotels nearby in New Minas and Wolfville.
The Wickwire House, 183 Main Street, Kentville
The Grand Street Inn, 160 Main Street, Kentville
6. Warmer Weather
Being surrounded by mountains has its benefits, including warmer weather. During October, temperatures can be as warm as 20 degrees Celsius during the day. This warmer weather means leaves take longer to fully change colours, so you have more time to enjoy them. The best part of the warmer weather in Kentville is that you don’t need to break out winter clothing before Halloween.
7. Cozy Cafes
Sit back, relax, and enjoy a warm drink and a scrumptious snack at one of the cozy cafes in Kentville. You may have heard of TAN Coffee since it is a popular local roaster in Nova Scotia. It has three locations in the Valley, with one of them being right in Kentville.
Serving up North Mountain coffee and freshly baked treats, the Half Acre Cafe is another popular spot in Kentville.
8. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
Sable Shortbread sells delicious wares made from recipes that have been handed down for generations. Right on Main Street, the bright colours and the smell will have you walking into the store in no time. Once inside, you will be greeted with the view of freshly baked, handmade artisan shortbread. Their pumpkin pie tarts are amazing. They also carry high-quality chocolate and candies.
437 Main Street, Kentville
9. Come for Some Scares
It wouldn’t be October without some scares. Phantom Effects is bringing the screams to Kentville this year. Each weekend in October, the Haunted House will be open if you dare to enter the Freakshow. Be warned, Phantom Effects has over 20 years of experience, so this haunted house is only for the bravest souls.
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325 Main Street, Kentville
10. Farmers Market
Harvest season is in full swing in October, and the farmers markets are packed with freshly picked fruits and vegetables. Kentville Farmers Market continues outside at Center Square until mid-October, then moves inside and continues until Christmas.
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