Canada's insider blog

When a fleet of tall ships sails into Halifax, Nova Scotia this summer a 10-day festival (July 19-29) begins which celebrates the maritime heritage of Canada.

Six ports will feature the best of local food and entertainment during the festival, which is also the climax of the Tall Ships Challenge – a race that began in Savannah, Ga. The challenge is known for the youth education it provides for those on board as well as for the thrill it gives visitors who come from miles around to see the spectacle.

This year marks the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812, which will be commemorated in Halifax with musket and cannon firings, displays of naval discipline, walking tours of the 1812 sites and a sunset military tattoo.

Taste of Nova Scotia will offer lobster rolls, seafood, gourmet burgers and local beverages in its culinary pavilion on the Sands at Salter.

The Tall Ships event, organized by Waterfront Development, will take place in Halifax July 19-23.  The ships will then sail to Lunenburg (July 25-26) Shelburne (July 28-29), Port Hawkesbury (July 25-27), Pictou (July 28-29) and Pugwash (July 28-29).

Follow us on Twitter @ctccct / Suggested Tweet: Tall Ships set sail for Nova Scotia, July 19-29

Photo credit : Destination Halifax