Discover the rich Acadian Culture of Cumberland

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Nova Scotia, Cumberland County is home to a vibrant and resilient Acadian culture that has flourished over centuries. As you explore this charming region, you’ll find a unique blend of history, music, language, and cuisine that showcases the rich heritage of the Acadian people. Let’s take a journey through the heart of Acadian culture in Cumberland County.

A Brief History of the Acadians

The Acadians are descendants of French settlers who arrived in the Maritimes during the 17th century. Despite facing hardships such as the Great Expulsion of 1755, when thousands were forcibly removed from their lands by the British, the Acadians demonstrated remarkable resilience and eventually resettled in regions like Cumberland County. Today, their culture continues to thrive, and their legacy is celebrated throughout the region.

Beaubassin: Located near the modern-day border between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, Beaubassin was one of the first major Acadian settlements in the area and was designated a national historic site of Canada in 2005. Beaubassin is at the heart of Siknikt, one of the seven traditional Mi’kmaq districts. There was already an important Mi’kmaq community here when Acadians from Port Royal came in the 1670s to trade and to farm. The site is now an archaeological area where you can learn about the early Acadian way of life and their interactions with the Mi’kmaq and French settlers.

Minudie: Situated along the Chignecto Bay, Minudie is another historically significant Acadian area. After the expulsion, many Acadians returned to this region to reestablish their communities. Today, Minudie is known for its beautiful landscapes, dykes built by the Acadians still visible today and historical sites, including the Amos Seaman School Museum.

Celebrating Acadian Culture

Cumberland County hosts several events and festivals celebrating Acadian culture. These gatherings are a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local traditions and meet the people who keep this vibrant culture alive. Acadian traditions are deeply rooted in family and community. From kitchen parties filled with lively fiddle music and dancing to storytelling sessions that pass down tales from one generation to the next, there’s a strong sense of togetherness and pride in their cultural practices.

Tintamarre Acadian Festival – hosted by the Société acadienne de Cumberland featuring live Acadian music, family entertainment and a traditional Tintamarre – this lively and colorful parade involves participants wearing traditional Acadian attire, waving flags, playing musical instruments, and making noise through various means like pots, pans, and bells. The Tintamarre is a symbol of unity, resilience, and cultural pride.  Join the Cumberland Acadian Society in downtown Amherst on August 8, 3 – 8 p.m.

The Blessing of the Crops Mass will be held August 4 at 3 pm at the St. Denis Church in Minudie with a reception to follow in the Minudie Community Centre. During this annual blessing, parishioners bring baskets of vegetables and fruit for the priest to accept and bless them symbolically.

The Minude Heritage Association presents Acadian Day 2024 Celebrations on August 11 from noon to 4 p.m. in Minudie. Enjoy a traditional Tintamarre, BBQ, vendors, quilt show and live Acadian entertainment by Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame artist, Ray Legere with Frank Doody and Louis Cormier along with Purdy Fiddles.

A common Acadian expression is “Au fricot!”, meaning “let’s eat!”. Discover these delicious recipes that make Acadian fare so distinct – try a scrumptious home-cooked meal that is chock-full of tradition like a classic meat pie (pâté à la viande) or hearty chicken fricot.

Exploring Acadian culture in Cumberland County is a journey filled with warmth, history, and a strong sense of community. From lively music and rich traditions, there’s so much to discover and appreciate. So next time you find yourself in Nova Scotia, take the time to experience the unique and enduring culture of the Acadians in Cumberland County – you won’t be disappointed!

August 15 is National Acadian Day. Bonne fête de L’Acadie à tous! Happy Acadian Day everyone!