About Lunenburg UNESCO World Heritage Site

Established in 1753 by German, Swiss and French Protestant sailors, Lunenburg is situated on a hill, in a beautiful cove on the South Shore of Nova Scotia. Originally Lunenburg was knows as "Malegash", derived from the Indian word "Mirligueche", which means "Milky Bay". This is thought to refer to the harbour in stormy conditions.
Lunenburg's many visitors are enthralled by the atmosphere that exists along the waterfront and through the hillside streets. Lunenburg has been long known for its shipbuilding heritage-the original Bluenose, Bluenose II, HMCS Rose, HMCS Bounty-seafaring expertise, natural beauty, architectural gems and down home hospitality. In 1995, Lunenburg was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. During the time of the salt cod-rum Running era, a saying of "Iron Men and Wooden Ships" was derived.

There's Lots to Do in Lunenburg During your Visit

While staying in Lunenburg there are many things to do during your visit:

Have lunch at the Rum Runner restaurant and spend the afternoon exploring and learning about the fishing heritage-industry at the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic.
Enjoy an afternoon on the water sailing, boating, whale watching or scuba diving.
Deep sea fishing charters leave port daily.
Sail on the Bluenose II when in port.
Browse the craft stores and galleries throughout the town and the South Shore.
Take a walking tour of Lunenburg, view majestic churches, Victorian mansions, the Academy.
View Lunenburg by Horse-drawn carriage.
Enjoy Lunenburg's walking trail (former CN rail line), this picturesque trail leads you along the backside of the famous town, offering rest areas along the way with information about the town provided at the rest areas. bringing you back to where you started upon completion. The trail is approx. 6 km long.
Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the sounds of nature from one of our parks or beaches, rent a bike for a day of sightseeing that can lead you from Lunenburg to Blue Rocks a small fishing community that sits at the mouth of Lunenburg Harbour.
While staying in Lunenburg explore our coastline by driving the Lighthouse Route, going through different communities along the way. Visit Peggy's Cove and send a postcard from North America's only post office located in a lighthouse.

Festivals and Shows

Lunenburg is very proud to be home to internationally recognized festivals

July—August

Each Thursday evening during the summer months a concert is held at the Heritage Bandstand for the public to enjoy. A showcase of local and visiting talent.

July—Annual

Lunenburg Craft Festival showcases the talents of Atlantic Canada's craftspeople and artisans. Local merchants hold a street fest on Lincoln Street, during the weekend. The craft festival is located at the Community Center Grounds.

The Boxwood Festival features music, concerts, dances, classes, and informal sessions.

July

Paint Sea on Site, features local artisans painting throughout the town, at the end of each day (2 day event) the artists then take their wares and sell them at the local fire hall.

August

Nova Scotia Folk Art Festival, this festival showcases the talents of maritime artisans in a day long event at the Lunenburg Community Center.

Lunenburg Fork Harbour Festival, located on the waterfront and throughout the town is a gathering of maritime musicians highlighting traditional folklore and music.

Lunenburg Seafood Festival, located on the waterfront features traditional favorites such as scallop shucking, fish filleting, net mending, wire-rope splicing and the ever popular International Dory Races.

October

Oktoberfest, a time when Lunenburg and its citizens celebrate their German heritage. A must be for anyone who is of German decent. This festival has different venues throughout the town.

November

Newfie Days, is a celebration of the heritage of Newfoundland, many of whom have made Lunenburg their home. A parade, variety show, dance and more highlight the weekends activities, featured at various locations throughout the town.

December

Once Upon a Lunenburg Christmas, experience Christmas in Lunenburg, with the lighting of many Christmas trees by the Heritage bandstand, a Christkindlmarket and more.

Historic Buildings

Lunenburg architectural gems are often seen in films, magazines, on television as backdrop to stories, or as a feature in themselves. To appreciate these historic buildings and stately homes you can take a relaxing horse drawn carriage or walking tour of the town.

Along the way you will note the Lunenburg Academy, an excellent example of "gingerbread ornamentation", enchanting Victorian mansions and numerous churches all add to the unique charm of Lunenburgs beautiful, tree-lined streets.