August on Cape Breton Island: A Month of Music, Culture, and Celebration

Cape Breton Island is turning up the volume this August with a jam-packed calendar of events that celebrate the Island’s music, heritage, and community spirit. Whether you're chasing the soulful sounds of a summer concert, clapping along to traditional fiddle tunes, cheering on Highland athletes or laughing the night away with world-class comedy, there's something happening in every corner of the Island. From the banks of the Margaree to the waterfront stages of Sydney, from Acadian parades to art installations, August invites you to explore Cape Breton’s cultural heartbeat like never before. Ready to dive in? Here’s a roundup of the can’t-miss events lighting up the Island this month.

Red Farm Field Trip

August 3-4

This 19+ outdoor festival near Sydney features Sloan, Bahamas, Gordie Sampson, Amelie Sampson, Morgan Toney and a Songwriters’ Circle. Set on a scenic 400-acre property, it promises nostalgic vibes and great music under the stars.
Tickets: $49 GA ($69 after June 30) | $149 VIP ($199 after June 30) | 7pm start

Margaree Highland Games

August 9–10

Celebrate Cape Breton culture with two days of athletics, music and family fun in East Margaree. Events include bingo, Acadian fricot, a family square dance, and traditional heavy events. This year’s competition features top athletes from Canada and France.

Rock the Fiddle – Sydney Waterfront

August 14–16

Cape Breton’s biggest summer party returns with local and national acts. The exclusive VIP night at the C200 concourse features Rankin MacInnis and the Broken Reeds, The Matt Minglewood Band and Jimmy Rankin with special guests! Weekend VIP passes available.

Acadian Day at the Fortress of Louisbourg

August 15

Celebrate Acadian culture with a lively Tintamarre procession, noon cannon firing and guided Acadian history tours. All events included with general admission.
11:40am–4pm

Cape Breton Comedy Fest at the HAT

August 20

Scott Thompson (Kids in the Hall) headlines this year’s festival as his iconic character Buddy Cole. A must-see for comedy lovers. Ages 18+ recommended.

Outdoor Concert Series – La Place du Pêcheur, Chéticamp

Thursdays until August 21

Enjoy live local music every Thursday evening from 7pm–8:30pm in the heart of Chéticamp. In case of rain, concerts move to Doryman Pub & Grill from 6pm–7:30pm.

Come from Away at the Savoy

August 25 & 30

This powerful musical tells the true story of 7,000 stranded passengers welcomed by the people of Gander, Newfoundland after 9/11. A moving and unforgettable show.

Sunset Series – Inverness County Centre for the Arts

August 30

Soak in live music, ocean views and community spirit at one of Cape Breton’s most scenic summer events.

Acoustic Roots Festival at Two Rivers Wildlife Park

August 29–31

This beloved festival returns to the 500-acre Two Rivers Wildlife Park with a weekend of East Coast folk, country, Celtic, blues and bluegrass. Music begins Friday evening with performances and workshops running all weekend, including a traditional square dance workshop Saturday morning.

Joan Jonas: We come from the sea

August 10 – October 12

Experience a multisensory exhibition by acclaimed artist Joan Jonas, on display at both Eltuek Arts Centre in Sydney and Inverness County Centre for the Arts. The installation explores the beauty and fragility of the ocean through video, performance and sound.