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Photo Credit: Fredericton Tourism
Located on the St. John River, the capital of New Brunswick, comes alive in summer with fun festivals. Whether you want to join for celebrations that extol the local culture or go on tipple tours, you will find plenty to do in Fredericton.
Known for its culture and historical district, Fredericton is a great place for those who are looking to head outside and explore the wilderness this summer.
Here are 45 things to do in and around Fredericton this summer of 2018 from summer festivals to walk in the woods to ideas for a rainy day!
1. Cultural Expressions Festival – Fredericton
You can take part in Canadian Multiculturalism Day by trying new food, watch a parade, take in dance and music performances, and enjoy many other family activities at the Cultural Expressions Festival. These two exciting days are full of entertainment from across of the globe. June 22 – 23, 2018
2. Animaritime – Fredericton
You can celebrate all things gaming, anime and manga with over a thousand fans at Animaritime. Along with bringing fans and vendors together at the Fredericton Convention Centre and Crowne Plaza, there are also discussion panels, workshops, and tournaments at this popular convention. June 29 – July 1, 2018
3. Under the Stars Film Series– Fredericton
On Saturdays and Sundays at dusk, Officers’ Square turns into an outdoor movie theatre. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, grab some snacks and head to the square to watch new, modern movies on Saturday nights. You can enjoy the old classics that are part of the Under the Stars Film Series on Sunday nights. July 8 – September 2, 2018
4. Frog Walks– Fredericton
Learn about the 7 frog and toad species that call the Hyla Park Nature Preserve their home. The Nature Trust of New Brunswick offers free tours called Frog Walks, which take place every Thursday from mid-July to the end of August.When you take a tour of this protected park, you will be able to spot frogs and toads in Canada’s First Amphibian Sanctuary.
5. Fredericton Outdoor Summer Theatre– Fredericton
Daily at the Officers’ Square, humorous and historical shows are hosted all summer long by the Fredericton Outdoor Summer Theatre. The professional theatre troupe of performers, musicians and heritage interpreters, also known as the Calithumpians, have put on these shows for over 30 years. They bring dynamic, family-oriented, and educational entertainment to downtown Fredericton by performing four shows that are rotated throughout the summer.
6. Fredericton Boyce Farmers Market– Fredericton
Recognized as one of the top community markets in Canada, the Fredericton Boyce Farmers Market is a Saturday staple. There are over 250 vendors at this weekly farmer’s market, which makes it the perfect place to discover local and seasonal products, delicious food, quirky hand-made gifts, New Brunswick wines, artisan chocolates and so much more.
7. Future Forest Festival – Fredericton
Future Forest is one of New Brunswick’s premiere electronic music and dance festivals. It draws thousands of people from all across the country and North America more broadly to enjoy song, dance and good company. If you’re looking for an ethereal experience at one of New Brunswick’s EDM festivals, then pay a visit to Future Forest at the end of July held in the outskirts of Fredericton. July 27th – 30th, 2018
8. The Fredericton Geocaching Tour– Fredericton
This tour is the perfect way of exploring the paths less traveled in and around Fredericton. The Fredericton Geocaching Tour is made up of 24 special caches that you can hunt for from 3 specific themes: heritage, nature, and culture. All you need is a GPS (global positioning) unit, a map and sense of adventure to get started.
9. Guided Heritage Walking Tours– Fredericton
Guided Heritage Walking Tours are lovely tours of Fredericton that you can take part in with a historically-dressed guide leading the way. The tour will take you around downtown Fredericton to popular historic sites. There are two different tours offered daily.
10. Killarney Lake Park– Fredericton
This beautiful freshwater lake and its sandy beach is a local favourite. During the summer months, the beach is supervised. There is also 20km of well-groomed walking trails for you to explore at Killarney Lake Park. The trails at Killarney are easy to navigate and the beach is family and dog friendly.
11. Fredericton Disc Golf – Fredericton
Disc golf is very similar to regular golf, but instead of hitting a golf ball into the hall, you throw a disc into a metal basket. There are no fees, you just need a Frisbee and head to the play for a fun game of disc golf. The Odell Disc Golf Course, where many Frederictonians play this fairly young sport, is located on the bottom half of Fredericton’s Odell Park. The 1st tee is located in the Northwest corner of the main parking lot off Waggoners Lane.
12. Falls Brook Festival – Fredericton
Head to the Falls Brook Festival for a weekend filled with fun workshops. This popular weekend festival focuses on communal and participatory learning concept that encourages everyone to adopt the role of both teacher and student. In between workshops, you can enjoy live music by local bands. There are also local artists and vendors on-site who will be showcasing their work. July 13 – 15, 2018
13. Down East Brew Fest– Fredericton
Kicking off the summer on Carleton Street, The Down East Brew Fest brings together dozens of breweries, cideries and meaderies. Come and sample some or all the products being showcased. There will be plenty of local food suppliers on-site if you get hungry. on August 4, 2018
14. Harvey Community Days – Harvey Station
Head to this little village to take part in an annual festival that has a jam-packed calendar of events during Harvey Community Days. Bring the family and have memorable time during this week. August 7 -12, 2018
15. Life at the Lakes – Cambridge Narrows
Life at the Lakes is an annual arts, culture, and nature festival that has a little bit of everything, including a quilt show, car shows, beer gardens, and much more. This two day event celebrates the community by offering open visits and activities at various venue sites. There is something for everyone and you never sure what you are going to find of the festival. August 11 – 12, 2018
16. Acadian Day Celebrations– Fredericton
You should bring the family to explore and celebrate Acadian culture, language, and joie de vivre at the Acadian Day Celebrations. Watch the flag raising ceremony and the tintamarre (parade). There is also games for the kids and full day of events. August 15, 2018
17. Stanley Fair – Stanley
The Stanley Fair is the longest-running agricultural fair in Canada, which proves that this family-friendly event has something for everyone. You can get up close to farm animals or watch the woodsmen complete to see who is the best and the fastest. August 17 – 19, 2018
18. Main Street Summer Concert Series- Fredericton
Spend your summer evening enjoying free outdoor concerts have become a wonderful way that feature talented, local musicians. 7pm every Wednesday from June 6 to 29, 2018.
19. Kings Landing Loyalist Village
One of New Brunswick’s best sites is a re-creation of a 19th century Loyalist village, located just 36km west of Fredericton. You can travel back in time at the Kings Landing Loyalist Village by role-playing in the school, church, store, and houses. Horse-drawn carts will take you around the town and to events and demonstrations.
20. New Brunswick Highland Games Festival– Fredericton
Celebrate kilts, clans and all things Celtic at the New Brunswick Highland Games Festival, which is held at the Government House grounds. The festival is divided into two important halves – the Scottish Festival and the Highland Games. Hundreds of performers and competitors travel from Atlantic Canada, and Ontario every year to participate in events at this popular festival. from July 27 – 29, 2018
21. Kingswood Entertainment Centre – Hanwell
Atlantic Canada’s Largest Family Entertainment Centre, the Kingswood Entertainment Centre is a great place to spend time with the family indoors on a rainy day. The indoor playzone features a 45-foot long inflatable obstacle course, a balloon room, bowling, Lazer tag and much more.
22. The Cultural Market– Fredericton
There is nowhere else like The Cultural Market in Fredericton. From international crafts, local delicacies to tasty meals, there is something for everyone at this market. This popular market allows visitors to experience a variety of cultures under one roof.
23. Carman Creek Mini Golf – Fredericton
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Saint John River, while you play a rousing round of mini golf at Carman Creek Mini Golf. There are also golfing lessons if you want to learn how to play regular golf. If you love golf, this course is a must play.
24. Nashwaak Tubing– Durham Bridge
Cool off on a hot day by tubing down the Nashwaak River on an inflatable tube from Nashwaak Tubing. You can choose between the Sterling’s Wharf package (between 1 – 1.5 hour long) and the Gilligan’s Ride package (around 3 hours long). This lazy river float is relaxing and is a great way of spending a day with friends and family.
25. Charlotte Street Arts Centre– Fredericton
One of Fredericton’s most cherished cultural locations, the Charlotte Street Arts Centre houses various workspaces for local artists. The centre also houses the Charlotte Glencross Gallery and a performing arts stage. You can choose to watch a performance or make your own art at one of the many workshops.
26. Experience a Day in a Soldier’s Life– Historic Garrison District
The Historic Garrison District allows you to step back in time and spend a day experiencing the life of a solder in the early 1800s. You will be able to dress in the eye-catching red tunics of the British regiment, and other ‘re-enactors’ will guide you through the Guard House, restored Barracks and prisoner cell block. A souvenir photo is taken at the end of Experience a Day in a Soldier’s Life.
27. Science East Science Centre– Fredericton
The only outdoor science playground in Atlantic Provinces, the Science East Science Centre has over 150 hands-on science exhibits. During the summer, there are science shows daily at 11am and 2pm.
28. John’s Village Toobing– Naskwaak Village
Sit back and relax, while you float down the Naskwaak River starting from John’s Village Toobing. You can pick either a 2.5km or a 4.5km run and cool off on your way down the river. So, bring the whole family and float a lazy summer day away.
29. Capital City Paintball– Fredericton
Blast your way to victory at Capital City Paintball. If you are over 12, you are good to go, so grab your gear and head outside. Don’t worry if you have never played paintball before, Capital City Paintball encourages everyone to try out paintball.
30. No Escape by Unplugged Games Café – Fredericton
Test your skills at No Escape by Unplugged Games Café in one of their three unique rooms. Work together with your friends and family and reach the goal within the time limit, or its game over. If you are having problems, you can ask for a clue. You are sure to have a great time and get your adrenaline pumping at No Escape.
31. Quartermain Earth Science Centre– Fredericton
Located at the University of New Brunswick in the historic Forestry & Geology building, the Quartermain Earth Science Centre explores the beauty and excitement of geology with displays, programs, exhibits, and events. You can take a geological journey through Earth’s evolution and learn what New Brunswick looked like millions ago and what it may look like in a million years from now.
32. Explore the Guard House and Soldiers’ Barracks– Fredericton
If you visit the Historic Garrison District, make sure that you explore the Guard House and Soldiers’ Barracks. Each building has been furnished to show what it would have been like when it was in use. You can take an English or French tour, which are offered in July and August. The tour of the Guard House includes a visit to a restored Orderly Room, a Guard Room, and a Cell Block as they would have looked in the 1800s, so you would see old muskets, uniforms and equipment on display.
33. Lighthouse on the Green– Fredericton
From the observation deck of Lighthouse on the Green you can see the breathtaking views of the Saint John River. There is also the interactive Saint John River Play & Learn Exhibit that you can have fun at while learning about the river and the city. There is also a BBQ pit restaurant that also serves icecream if you get hungry.
34. Woolastook Family Park – Upper Kingsclear
Located just 30km south-west of Fredericton is nature at its best, so pack the car and take the family to Woolastook Family Park. You can spend a day relaxing at the Woolastook Park’s beach, or hike or bike the trails around the park. The park also has a 9-hole pitch and putt, along with canoe and kayak rentals available.
35. King’s Landing – Prince William
This historical experience aims to push the boundaries about how history is told. The King’s Landing is a 300-acre living museum, which offers over 40 exhibits and 70,000 artifacts for visitors to view. The 19th century village comes to life in the summer with fully costumed characters and farm animals.
36. Hartt Island– Fredericton
Go camping without having to leave Fredericton at Hartt Island. You can stay at one of the 120 camping sites with electricity, water, picnic tables, fire pits and free Wi-Fi. During the day, take a dip at the Hartt’s Water Park and slide down the water slides. You can also challenge your family to a rousing round of mini golf to help pass the time.
37. Fredericton Botanic Garden– Fredericton
Fredericton Botanic Garden opened to the public in 1990. Today, you can walk through the garden and see a good variety of foliage and plants. The garden hosts garden parties, plant sales, and more. There are tours available or you can explore the park on your own.
38. School Day Museum – Fredericton
While you may not want to think about school in the summer, the School Day Museum is a great place to learn about how school was back in the 19th and 20th century, up to the 1950s. The museum has re-enactments that take place every Wednesday during the summer.
39. Chess Piece Patisserie & Café – Fredericton
The only true Parisian style café in Fredericton that offers amazing desserts, savoury pastries, macarons and other delectable offerings. Chess Piece Patisserie & Café was featured on The Baker Sisters on Food Network Canada. Sweet for both the taste buds and the eyes, Chess Piece Patisserie & Café is the perfect place for a date or to just take a break from doing other activities.
40. Delish Gourmet Rolled Ice Cream– Fredericton
You can enjoy over 20 flavours of ice cream at the Delish Gourmet Rolled Ice Cream in Downtown Fredericton. Each flavour of ice cream is hand rolled right in front of you, so it makes a great social media video. Along with amazing ice cream, they also make yummy dessert waffles for you to enjoy.
41. The Abbey Café & Gallery – Fredericton
While you are in Fredericton, you can enjoy a quick, fresh and healthy meal at The Abbey Café & Gallery. They specialize in vegetarian and vegan meals that even meat lovers enjoy. After your delicious meal, you can enjoy a cup of smooth Whitney coffee along with a delectable vegan dessert. The café overlooks the Officers’ Square and you can enjoy concerts from the café.
42. Freddy’s Waffle Station– Fredericton
Waffles don’t just have to be a breakfast option. Freddy’s Waffle Station makes a tasty variety of waffles that can be enjoyed as breakfast, lunch, and snacks. No matter if you prefer sweet or savory, there is a waffle for you at Freddy’s.
43. TreeGo Mactaquac – Mactaquac
Climb high into the trees at TreeGo Mactaquac, which is located in the Mactaquac Provincial Park. You can zip, climb and swing from tree to tree on this rope skills course. So, take a chance and go at your pace and test your skills.
44. Unplugged A Board Games Café- Fredericton
You can head inside and play some board games while you get some coffee. Unplugged A Board Games Café offers unlimited gameplay time for their over 700 games that you can pick from. If you get hungry during your game, you should try their gourmet grilled cheese or the bacon BBQ dog because they are amazing.
45. Explore Saint John River
Do not let the summer go by without seeing Fredericton via Saint John River. Contact Second Nature Outdoors for kayak, canoe rentals or guided tours. They offer fun themed tours like Pint & Paddle, SUP Tours. If you are traveling with kids, then there is the Voyageur Canoe Tours that will take you on a journey down the Wolastoq (Saint John River) taking time to stop at one of the many islands along the way.
46. NB Sports Hall of Fame- Fredericton
You can learn what it takes to be a sports legend at the NB Sports Hall of Fame. Test your skills on the 5-in-1 interactive virtual sports system, which is one of a kind in New Brunswick. The NB Sports Hall of Fame is a fun and educational place for all ages to enjoy.
47. Connexion ARC – Fredericton
This artist-run centre, Connexion ARC, promotes experimental visual arts practices including video, performance, installations and much more. The centre operates without a fixed location to present permanent and temporary projects sited in spaces outside of traditional gallery settings, generating new venues for artists to discuss their practices. You can see the latest work of local artists for free.
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