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Culture

Music, particularly, stands as a cornerstone of this region’s identity, with deep roots in Celtic and Acadian heritage that echo through the hills and coastal communities. The area is renowned for its lively ceilidhs, folk festivals, and the iconic Cape Breton fiddle style that has gained international acclaim. These musical gatherings are not just entertainment; they’re a living bridge connecting generations, preserving the Gaelic and French languages, and fostering a strong sense of community and belonging among residents and visitors alike.

Sports and outdoor activities also play a pivotal role in the fabric of the area, embodying the rugged and adventurous spirit of its people. From the seaside hiking and bike trails to rinks, golf courses and remarkable fishing spots, the region attracts enthusiasts from around the world. Community sports, including hockey, baseball, and sailing, further highlight the importance of physical activity and teamwork in local culture. Together, music, sports, and the beauty of the natural landscape create a distinctive cultural identity for the West side of Cape Breton, celebrating the harmony between tradition and the great outdoors.

Celtic Music Interpretive Centre

The Celtic Music Interpretive Centre is a not-for-profit society and a one-of-a-kind facility located in the tiny village of Judique, Cape Breton Island. The mission of the Celtic Music Interpretive Centre is to celebrate and foster the Celtic Music and Heritage of Cape Breton Island as a living tradition, through Archival Preservation, Education and Performance.

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Celtic Shores Coastal Trail

The Celtic Shores Coastal Trail is a 92-km (57 mi) multi-use trail stretching from Port Hastings to the Town of Inverness on the west coast of the spectacular Cape Breton Island. Great for off-road cycling or long distance trekking, the easy, flat trail meanders along the coastline, through picturesque wilderness, skirts streams, and connects several communities and attractions.

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Chestico Museum & Historical Society

Chestico Place is operated by the Chestico Museum & Historical Society of Port Hood, Nova Scotia. The museum and archives are currently based at the Harbourview School House just south of the seaside village of Port Hood, Inverness County, Nova Scotia.

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