50 Things to Do this Summer in and around Moncton

Located near the border of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Moncton is the largest city in New Brunswick.

Whether you are visiting the area or enjoying a staycation, there are plenty of great summer activities in the area, from watching the world’s highest tides to fantastic summer festivals. Moncton offers something unique for all ages with its rich cultural and art scenes.

Here are 50 summer activities in and around Moncton from fun festivals to thrilling tours

1. Riverview SUNFEST

Kickoff summer fun in Riverview.  Lively outdoor events, family fun, and a grand Canada Day celebration! June 27 to July 1, 2025. Sunfest

2. Shediac Lobster Festival

Each year, nine days are set aside in the summer to celebrate lobsters and the amazing dishes that can be made from them. It has been happening for the last 75 years and offers an all-you-can-eat lobster experience, so you may want to pack your lobster bib when you go to this festival. The festival also has entertainment for both kids and adults with a Midway, magicians, musicians, beach games, and contests. – Shediac from July 5 – 13, 2025

3. Rotary RibFest Moncton

Round up the whole family and head to the annual Rotary Ribfest Moncton. Entrance to the event is free, and you can buy the food and drinks that you want. Each ribber has their own menu and their own take on ribs, so you should be sure to look around before deciding what type of ribs you would like to eat. There is also live east coast music and kids’ activities for the whole family to enjoy. Rotary RibFest Moncton – Moncton from June 19 – 22, 2025

4. Magic Mountain Water Park – Moncton

If you love waterslides, you should plan a visit to Magic Mountain Water Park. There are water activities for the whole family. Young kids can splash at the splash pad. If you are daring, head to the Torpedo Drop Capsule. You should be sure to remember to apply sunscreen because you will want to spend the whole day here. Magic Mountain Water Park

5. Open Air Cinemas – Dieppe

Join the community at Place 1604 starting at dusk for a movie night under the stars. Enjoy the latest blockbuster films projected onto a giant inflatable screen. Don’t forget to bring chairs and blankets; popcorn will be provided! Open Air Cinemas

6. The Homestead Restaurant – Riverview

A local favorite and a well-kept secret, the Homestead Restaurant serves up generous platters of home-cooked food along with delicious home-baked breads and pie. It has been open since 1991, so drop in for a superb meal, eat well but keep the secret. The Homestead Restaurant 

7. Hopewell Rocks – Hopewell Cape

Just an hour outside of Moncton is the Hopewell Rocks. These unique rocks are formed by the Bay of Fundy’s tides. During low tides you can walk on the beach and explore the 2km of beach and coves. If you visit during high tides, you can kayak around the Hopewell Rocks.

8. Parlee Beach – Shediac

This lovely beach is just a short drive from Moncton and is known as Canada’s warmest saltwater beach. Along with the supervised beach, there are also places to play volleyball, ultimate Frisbee, and a campground where you can stay. The on-site campground has changed houses, showers, washrooms, a playground, a picnic area, an amphitheatre, a camper’s store, and plenty of free parking. Parlee Beach 

9. Pride Festival – Moncton

Moncton’s Pride Festival celebrates unity, love, diversity, and acceptance with exciting events. Enjoy the Riverfront market, dance in the Pride Parade, savor the family BBQ, experience drag shows, and enjoy live music and safe space activities. Join the festivities and support inclusivity and love. Pride Festival – August 1 – 10, 2025

10. Shediac Bay Cruises – Lobster Tales – Shediac

The Shediac Bay Cruises, also known as Lobster Tales, will teach you about the lobster industry and how to cook lobsters the Acadian way perfectly. The tour is about 2 ½ hours long and will take you around the Shediac Bay. Shediac Bay Cruises

11. Magnetic Hill Zoo – Moncton

The largest zoo in Atlantic Canada, the Magnetic Hill Zoo is home to over 500 animals from around 80 species. This zoo houses a diverse collection of animals from around the world, including Amur tigers, lions, leopards, zebras, Gibbon apes, cotton-top tamarins, and lemurs from Madagascar. The zoo was designed from the ground up to be comfortable for all the animals that call it their home. Magnetic Hill Zoo

12. Festival by the Marsh – Sackville

Sackville’s oldest summer festival celebrates music, theatre, literature, and fine arts. Highlights include “Whimsy State: or The Principality of Outer Baldonia” from July 17-20, and “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)” from July 23 to 27. Festival by the Marsh – July 12 – 27, 2025

13. DIY Studio – Moncton

The DIY Studio offers the largest selection of paint-your-own pottery in Moncton, so there is something for everyone. They have 250 pieces of pottery and over 75 paint colors to pick from. If you need some help, they also have stencils, silkscreens, and stamps that you can use to decorate your pottery. DIY Studio – Moncton

14. Mystery Moncton Escape Rooms – Moncton

Can you beat the clock and escape? The Mystery Moncton Escape Rooms will challenge your problem-solving and teamwork skills. So, just pick your story, grab your friends, and head on in. Mystery Moncton Escape Rooms

15. Fit Rocks Climbing Gym – Moncton

Fit Rocks Climbing Gym is a great place to go indoor rock climbing because it is the largest indoor rock climbing facility in Atlantic Canada. They have new climbing routes all the time, a virtual bouldering game wall, and a kid’s wall for the younger climbers. They also have a full training area for general fitness for people who are not climbers. Fit Rocks Climbing Gym 

16. Resurgo Transportation Discovery Centre – Moncton

One of Moncton’s newest family attractions, it may be small but is a fun interactive museum. Kids can launch a rocket, fly a plane, build a truck, and test their crafts in a wind tunnel. This science museum makes learning fun with its array of interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for all ages. Resurgo Transportation Discovery Centre 

17. Mosaiq Multicultural Festival – Moncton

Downtown Moncton is filled with the sounds, sights, smells, and tastes of the world during the Mosaiq Multicultural Festival. This is the time when you can connect with your roots and learn about new cultures. Mosaiq Multicultural Festival – April 12 – December 13, 2025.

18. Festival Acadie Rock – Moncton

Explore Acadian culture through music, performing arts, visual arts, and food at the annual Festival Acadie Rock. The week is packed with activities and there are live shows just about every night. So, get ready to party and make new friends.  Festival Acadie Rock –  August 14- 17, 2025

19. Little Louis – Moncton

Serving up dishes that are amazing to look at and ready for Instagram photos, Little Louis offers a truly unique dining experience. Little Louis has been awarded a Four Diamond Restaurant status by the AAA/CAA along with the Wine Spectator Award.  Little Louis – Moncton

20. Enjoy a vegetarian meal at Calactus – Moncton

With a menu inspired by food from across the globe, Calactus offers its customers the freedom to order anything for vegetarians. Their food is also enjoyed by many meat eaters who may be looking to try something new. You should be sure to finish your meal with one of their amazing homemade vegan desserts.  Calactus 

21. Capitol Theatre – Moncton

Capitol Theatre is one of a handful of fully restored vaudeville theatres in Canada and it welcomes over 80,000 guests every year. This theatre is the heart of the region’s performing arts, so there is something for everyone to enjoy in both English and French. Guided tours are also available.  Capitol Theatre – Moncton

22. Magnetic Hill Winery – Moncton

Located just off of the Trans-Canada Highway is the lovely Magnetic Hill Winery. You can do a tasting of their award-winning wines, or have a picnic on the patio of the farmhouse. The gift boutique offers over 100 unique Maritime handicrafts and local products for souvenirs that you can choose from. Magnetic Hill Winery

23. Tidal Bore

Created by the Bay of Fundy tides, the Tidal Bore happens twice a day. Watch the water in the Petitcodiac River roll back upstream in one wave, which can be up to 60 cm tall. If you are planning on seeing the Tidal Bore, arrive about 30 minutes before the scheduled time because there are several factors that affect the river.  Tidal Bore

24. Fundy National Park

Along with having the experience of seeing the world highest tides, the Fundy National Park also has pristine forests and campgrounds. There over 120kms of trails to explore and 3 campgrounds that you can stay at. You can connect with nature by camping or just enjoy the beach for the day. Fundy National Park

25. Tide & Boar Gastropub – Moncton

A play on “Tidal Bore”, the Tide & Boar Gastropub was named one of Canada’s Top 50 Restaurant by McLean’s Magazine, and was featured on “You Gotta Eat Here”. So, stop in and enjoy scrumptious, local dishes along with great local beers and wines. The restaurant also features great local musicians.  Tide & Boar Gastropub

26. Campbell Carriage Factory Museum – Sackville

Explore this 1855 carriage factory that was operational until 1949, and was restored in 1999. It is the only existing carriage factory in Canada. The barn is used to display several exhibits. You can also explore the blacksmith shop and the main two-storey building.  Campbell Carriage Factory Museum

27. Tantramar Wetlands Centre – Sackville

Spend an afternoon learning about the importance of wetlands and the animals who call these areas home at the Tantramar Wetlands Centre. They offer programs for all ages, and they welcome over 4,000 visitors each year.  Tantramar Wetlands Centre

28. Tubing with Gallan’s Miramichi River Tubing – Doyles Brook

Join the Gallan’s Miramichi River Tubing staff for another season and tube down the lovely Miramichi River. There are two tubing runs that you can pick from, a 1 ½ to 2 ½ hour run and a 3 to 5-hour run. There are campgrounds nearby if you are looking to stay on the Miramichi River.  Gallan’s Miramichi River Tubing

 

29. Art in the Park – Riverview

The Caseley Park bandstand will showcase artists with a variety of musical backgrounds all summer long. Join the Town of Riverview every Wednesday from 7 p.m.- 8:30 p.m. for a great summer line-up of free concerts, local art on display and the Lady Boss Collective’s Chocolate River Market.  Art in the Park – June 25 – August 13, 2025

30. Marche Moncton Market – Moncton

Over 130 vendors head to the Marche Moncton Market every Saturday to sell their locally produced goods. There is something for everyone at this market, so it is great for the whole family. The food court is the perfect place to pick up breakfast and lunch. Marche Moncton Market

31. Kouchibouguac National Park

Along the Acadian Coastal Drive is the Kouchibouguac National Park and some of the warmest saltwater in New Brunswick. This is a great place to go camping and explore the endless sand dunes. This beautiful area offers a unique blend of Acadian and Mi’kmaq cultures. Kouchibouguac National Park

32. Sackville Waterfowl Park – Sackville

Winner of Environment Canada’s National Award for Environmental Achievement, the Sackville Waterfowl Park lets you get up close to the local wildlife while it protects the environment. The 3.5 kilometre trail allows you to spot over 160 bird species and 200 plant species. From mid-May to late August, guided tours are available for tourists and locals alike. Sackville Waterfowl Park

33. Le Pays de la Sagouine – Bouctouche

Travel back in time and experience what life was like for Acadian’s. Located on a tiny island in Bouctouche, Le Pays de la Sagouine is a reproduction of an Acadian village based on Antonine Maillet’s character, La Sagouine. During the summer, there is live theatre, music, and comedy shows for visitors to enjoy. Le Pays de la Sagouine

34. Sappyfest – Sackville

Sappyfest is the annual independent arts and festival that takes place the first weekend in August. The streets of downtown Sackville become filled with music the whole weekend. If you need a break from the music, there are many street vendors and businesses open during the fest. Sappyfest – August 1 – 3, 2025

35. Irishtown Nature Park

Explore the old Acadian forests and wetlands at the Irishtown Nature Park. The park has 2,200 acres of forest and 250 acres of water, with trails to take you to different parts of the park. The Tankville School is at the start of the trail and has been fully restored. The schoolhouse is used for several outdoor educational programs and is available to rent for events. Irishtown Nature Park

36. Riverfront Park – Moncton

Along with being a great place to watch the Tidal Bore, the Riverfront Park has 5 km of multi-use trails that you can hike. Relax on one of the beaches or stop and smell the flowers at one of the many floral displays. The park is located conveniently downtown, so it is close to many shops and cafes. Riverfront Park – Moncton

37. Marche De Dieppe Market – Dieppe

On Saturdays, the Marche De Dieppe Market is a busy place and is the perfect place to learn about what is grown and produce around Dieppe. Spend some time exploring the two floors of vendors, and trying some of the amazing handmade treats. Shopping local has never been easier. Marche De Dieppe Market

38. Musée Acadien de l’Université de Moncton – Moncton

There are over 42,000 objects and photographs on display at the Musée Acadien de l’Université de Moncton in the permanent exhibition “L’Aventure Acadienne”. Along with the permanent exhibition, the museum brings in temporary exhibits that explore global history. You can take a guided tour or explore the museum on your own. Musée Acadien de l’Université de Moncton

39. Sky Zone – Dieppe

Spend an afternoon bouncing off the walls at the Sky Zone indoor trampoline park. The team members will make sure that you are having fun while being safe. If bouncing is not your thing, you can relax at the Fuel Zone Café and have a cold drink and a snack. Sky Zone

40. Wild Blueberry Harvest Festival – Amherst to Truro

Spend some time celebrating wild blueberries across central Nova Scotia. There are a huge number of events in each town and communities to enjoy. You can also try u-picks or sample amazing dishes made with fresh wild blueberries. Wild Blueberry Harvest Festival – 2025 dates TBA; August 17 – September 2, 2024

41. East Coast Karting – Dieppe

Hit the track at East Coast Karting, and race your friends or family. You can travel up to 65 km per hour in the karts around the track. There are also mini Grand Prix races that you can take part in or that you can just watch. East Coast Karting 

42. Fort Beauséjour – Fort Cumberland National Historic Site

Explore this historic fort where the future of Acadians and North America was decided. It is on the border of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia and is where France and Britain fought for Atlantic Canada. You can either take a guided tour or explore the fort yourself. Fort Beauséjour – Fort Cumberland National Historic Site 

43. The Music Barn – Sackville

This over 150-year-old barn was made into a unique music venue in 2007. It is the perfect place to enjoy country or bluegrass music. The Music Barn

44. Clementine Café – Moncton

Serving up a whole lot of cheer and delicious coffee, the Clementine Café has become a local favorite. So, drop in and enjoy a cup of coffee or a local tea blend. Along with your coffee or tea and snack, you can play an exciting game of Foosball in their games and lounge area. Clementine Café

45.  Magnetic Hill – Moncton

One of Canada’s most visited natural wonders, Magnetic Hill fascinates every visitor with the ability to pull cars uphill. Once you are on the hill, you just put your car in neutral and release the brake, then your car will be drawn up the hill. A visit to Magnetic Hill encourages you to open your mind, have fun, and enjoy one of nature’s wonders!  Magnetic Hill

46. hop! sip! jump! Indoor Play Space Moncton

Labeled as New Brunswick’s largest indoor play space, hop! sip! jump! Indoor Play Space Moncton is a great location to head to on a rainy day. The activities vary from laser mazes to virtual reality, wall climbing to toddler-only activities. Truly, this is where kids come to play! hop skip jump

47. Atlantic Nationals Automotive Extravaganza – Moncton

The Atlantic Nationals Automotive Extravaganza in Moncton features vintage classics to modern marvels. Enjoy free events like the Friday Night Main Street Party and Saturday’s Maritime Kitchen Party. Admire show cars at Centennial Park ($15/person, free for kids under 13) and enjoy live music and automotive artistry. Multi-award-winning Canadian icons Lighthouse will headline Friday Night. Atlantic Nationals – July 9 – 13, 2025

48. Downtown Moncton Patio Fest – Moncton

Join us all summer long for weekly events and a celebration of summer during Patio Fest! Events will be hosted throughout Downtown Moncton starting from June 5th until August 28th. Patio Fest – June 5 – August 28, 2025

49. Moncton Buskers Festival – Moncton

The Moncton Buskers Festival returns with jaw-dropping, gravity-defying acts. Enjoy street performers, musicians, acrobats, and local talent at Riverfront Park. Fuel up on treats from local food vendors and enjoy a weekend of dazzling performances. Buskers Festival – July 18 – 20, 2025

50. Downtown Moncton Centre-ville Arts – Moncton

Downtown Moncton Centre-ville Arts is a free celebration of music, visual art & performance in the City. Downtown Moncton Centre-ville Arts – June 27, 2025

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