“To any of your readers thinking of opening a hotel, motel, or inn please come to Pictou County. We need more.” Ninety years into this carnival celebrating Pictou’s fishermen, it’s still a community cornerstone. This year the Pictou Lobster Carnival reflects on its histo- ry, while also planning for an even bigger and bet- ter future for the next ninety years of North America’s Longest Running Lobster Festival and Celebration. Canada or even here in the Maritimes. There are sev- eral accommodation options, including several local inns and bed & breakfasts, cottage rentals, and even camping. Glen was quick to add, “To any of your readers thinking of opening a hotel, motel, or inn please come to Pictou County. We need more.” The ultimate goal for the volunteer team at the Pictou Lobster Carnival is that with growing interest, the carnival and town can grow alongside it, with big- ger stages, extra accommodations, and more. In the meantime, though, the Pictou Lobster Carnival has something for every budget and everybody. “Even if you’re not into seafood, God forbid, there’s still lots to do,” Glen sums up with a laugh.
the fishermen, the volunteers, and the support of local businesses. As of last year, the carnival had 70 volunteers, some of whom have been working with the carnival for decades. They hope to recruit and increase the volunteer pool, with a goal of 100 volunteers this year. Considering the population of Pictou can inflate from 3,500 to 14,000 or more throughout the weekend, pulling off the carnival with 70 volunteers is an incredible feat. It truly shows the passion for the event and the town itself and why this is North America’s Longest Running Lobster Festival. The tremendous support of local businesses and volunteers helps keep the carnival affordable for locals and visitors to Pictou. “Everything is costing more these days, not only here but all across the country,” Glen acknowledges. In years past, even the main stage of the Lobster Carnival was free. In recent years, to cover expenses and bring in quality entertainment, they had to start charging for the main stage headlining shows. That said, the Pictou Lobster Carnival is still a highly affordable option when looking at other festivals and events across
74 SPOTLIGHT MAGAZINE ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • VOL 24 ISSUE 3
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