annual conference and Exhibition
2010 Annual Conference
& Exhibition
September 26-29
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Adjusting to New Realities
a great companion program
Along with the social events offered to both delegates and companions (Halifax city tour, Welcoming Reception, Down East Lobster Ceilidh and Annual Banquet), organizers have planned a special program of activities for companions.
Monday, September 27
Brunch and Halifax Harbour Cruise
Photo: Nova Scotia Transportation
and Infrastructure Renewal
Enjoy brunch in the 44 North Restaurant with its floor to ceiling windows overlooking magnificent Halifax harbour. Watch the ships glide past while you chat with acquaintances and make new friends. You will also be given useful information on upcoming companion events.
Brunch will be followed in early afternoon by a Halifax harbour cruise on a Mississippi-style sternwheeler with an enclosed lower deck and a roofed upper deck open to the air. During the two-hour scenic tour, you will experience the rich and dramatic history of the Port of Halifax, from its settlement through to the Halifax Explosion and today’s Canadian naval vessels.
Tuesday, September 28
Day Trip to Nova Scotia’s South Shore
Today, you’re off to Nova Scotia’s south shore for the day.
The first stop will be Peggy’s Cove – an artist’s and explorer’s paradise. This village stands on solid rock above the crashing surf. The coastline is famous for pirates, shipwrecks, rum running and sunsets. Your guide will take you on a walking tour of the moody cove and village, featuring weather-worn fishing shacks (complete with colourful buoys and lobster traps) still used by local fishermen, as well as awe-inspiring rock formations that have been carved out by the glaciers of the last Ice Age.
Photo: Destination Halifax / W. Hayes
Then it’s on to Lunenburg, often called the prettiest town in Canada and birthplace of the world-famous Bluenose schooner. Established in 1753, Lunenburg is the best surviving example of a planned British colonial settlement in North America. In 1995, “Old Town” Lunenburg was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List. While in Lunenburg, you can have lunch at a restaurant of your choice (not included as part of the tour). Afterwards, you may wish to visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic or perhaps just wander through the town to do some sightseeing or shopping.
On the return trip to Halifax, a brief photo stop will be made in Mahone Bay, famous for its picturesque scene of three waterfront churches. This postcard-perfect maritime venue was named one of Canada’s best small-town downtowns.
OR
Shopping Trip to Dartmouth Crossing and Mic Mac Mall
Your Halifax area shopping expedition will take you to Dartmouth Crossing, which has a variety of fashion, shoe, specialty and home decorating stores, as well as to Mic Mac Mall, one of Nova Scotia’s largest shopping centres with its 160 stores and services (mid-morning departure; late-afternoon return).
Wednesday, September 29
Day Trip to Grand Pre
Grand Pre in the Annapolis Valley is your destination today.At the Grand Pre Winery, you will be given a tour of the vineyards, learn about grape varieties that are unique to Nova Scotia, taste test in the wine boutique and enjoy a special meal at the establishment’s fine-dining restaurant.
Next will be a visit of Grand Pré National Historic Site of Canada. There, you’ll hear Longfellow’s stirring tale of Evangeline’s lifelong search for her lover Gabriel. Perhaps you’ll be jostled by the ghosts of deported Acadians or meet flesh and blood descendants.
You will then be taken to the Tangled Garden where herbs and fruit are transformed into jewel-like jellies and flavourful vinegars to enhance simple fare or gourmet meals. This establishment also produces jams, chutneys, mustards, vinegars and liqueurs. All are made using fresh herbs from the owner’s garden and fruit from the fertile Annapolis Valley. The property features the herb garden, a labyrinth, a gallery and a production kitchen.
OR
Shopping Trip to Spring Garden Area
Located in the heart of Halifax, the Spring Garden area features over 200 mostly independently owned stores. This charming and vibrant area is a shopper’s paradise: brand name fashions, Nova Scotian giftware and hair salons rub shoulders with excellent restaurants, coffee houses and bars (mid-morning departure; mid-afternoon return).
Companions should note that they will be requested to make their activity selections prior to the conference on a first-come, first-served basis.
Some program details may be subject to change, pending completion of final arrangements with the tour operators and venues.