The Nova Scotia Schooner Association (NSSA) celebrates Schooner Race Week’s 65th anniversary in Hubbards Cove from August 3rd through 8th, 2026.
Competitive schooner racing with a dozen vessels runs throughout the week, with a daily 12:30 pm start horn at the mouth of the cove.
NSSA secretary Lisa Cochrane, owner of Rencontre, the 30-foot schooner moored in Deep Cove, says, “We have doubled the number of schooners who participated in last year’s races in Lunenburg. We’re focused on bringing in new boats and inviting new members to the organization.” Cochrane adds, “We have an American boat racing with us this year, for some fun international rivalry.”
Schooner Family Day on Sunday, August 2nd from 1 to 5 pm launches the week on the public wharf at 20 Yacht Club Road. The public is invited to meet the beautiful schooners, their salty captains, and enthusiastic race crews. With food, beverages, music, and schooner information, you will love immersing yourself in our colourful marine heritage. Fun for all ages!
As part of the festivities, award-winning singer-songwriter Lennie Gallant will perform with his band at the Shore Club for the first time ever on Tuesday, August 4th at 7:30 pm. Seating is limited, so arrive early. Tickets are $45 at https://Lennie-Gallant-Shore-Club-Aug-4-2026.eventbrite.ca.
On Thursday, August 6th from 7 to 10 pm, Women at the Helm will shake up the Black Harbour Distillers, at a free social for women interested in learning more about adult sailing skills and racing opportunities.
The Moonshine TV location on Hubbards Beach will host the Sable Pipeline Surf n’ Ska band on Friday, August 7th from 8 to 11 pm. The event is 19+, with tickets being sold for $15 at https://sable-Pipeline-Surf-N-Ska-Aug-7.eventbrite.ca.
Schooner Race Week is generously funded by HRM, the Aspotogan Heritage Trust, and the Municipality of the District of Chester. It has been sponsored by their hosts, the Hubbards Community Waterfront Association, Black Harbour Distillers, Propeller Brewing Company, Hubbards Beach Campground & Cottages, Tuna Blue Inn & Restaurant, Cove FM Radio, Dream Imagine Believe Photography, East River Shipyard, and the Binnacle.
ly funded by HRM, the Aspotogan
Heritage Trust, and the Munici-
pality of the District of Chester.
Story by Lisa Cochrane