1. Paddlefest Music & Nature Festival

Paddlefest is where music meets nature — and the result is a four-day celebration that turns St. Andrews into a hub of creativity and connection. Expect live music, art, outdoor adventures, and environmental events set against a stunning seaside backdrop. Whether you’re into paddleboarding or punk rock, Paddlefest is a must for your long-weekend itinerary.

Date: May 14 - May 17
Price: $95+
Location: 211 Water Street, St. Andrews, NB

2. Waterfront Concert Series: Matt Mays

AREA 506 kicks off its 2025 Waterfront Concert Series with Canadian indie-rock singer Matt Mays. Bring your friends, soak in the waterfront views, and dance the night away. It’s a perfect way to celebrate with live music and high energy.

Date: May 16 • 7:00pm to 11:00pm
Price: $40
Location: 85 Water Street Saint John, NB

3. Visit a Provincial Park

With the forests turning lush and trails drying out, it’s the perfect time to hike, camp, or simply reconnect with nature in one of NB’s beautiful provincial parks. Whether it’s Mount Carleton, Mactaquac, or Fundy, you’ll find plenty of adventure and tranquillity.

Want to save some money, but not sacrifice exploring? New Brunswick Library Card holders can stop by their local library between May 15 and October 11 with their library card and check out a provincial park pass!

Some important details:
- One pass per library card
- 500 passes available per day
- Each pass is valid for three days from the date of check-out

To find your nearest public library, visit the New Brunswick Public Libraries site.

4. Weekend Get-Away

Treat yourself to a staycation or a scenic escape. Think cozy B&Bs, beachside resorts, or remote cabins tucked into the woods. Top spots include St. Martins, Rexton, Shediac, or the Restigouche River Valley. Whatever your pace, New Brunswick has a getaway to match.

Looking for ideas? Check out our Navigate NB page for great ideas for places to stay, eat, shop and explore around the province!

5. Get on the Water

Rent a kayak, take a guided paddle, or launch your canoe into one of the many lakes, rivers, or coastlines. The Saint John River, Miramichi, and Magaguadavic Lake all offer great paddling for beginners and experts alike.

6. Foodie on the Hunt

From seafood shacks to farmers’ markets, take yourself on a culinary quest. Grab fresh oysters in Bouctouche, sip craft beer in Fredericton, or hunt down the best lobster roll along the Acadian coast. Don’t forget to visit local bakeries and roadside produce stands!

Looking for local favourites? Check out the 2025 People's Choice Winners to find your next favourite bite!

7. Small Town Wandering

Galleries, murals, gift shops, boardwalks, antique stores, and covered bridges are a few of the things to keep an eye out for when exploring small town New Brunswick. Wander through charming towns like St. Andrews, Sussex, Woodstock, or Sackville to discover the unique charm for every town.

8. Visit the Islands of New Brunswick

Hop on a ferry to Grand Manan, Campobello, or Deer Island for a peaceful island adventure. Think lighthouse views, puffin spotting, and cliffside hikes — or just quiet beachcombing far from the crowds.

9. Sea Glass Scavenging

Head to St. Martins, Alma, or Mispec Beach for a relaxing beach stroll with a mission: find beautiful sea glass treasures to take home. Make it a game with friends or a peaceful solo moment by the surf.

10. The Start of Market Season

May sees the return of bustling farmers’ and craft markets across the province. Visit the Saint John Queen's Square Farmer's Market, Fredericton Thursday Night Market, Dieppe Market, or pop-up village markets for local food, handmade crafts, and that first whiff of summer in the air.

Reminder: Market schedules and locations can change, so always double-check details before you head out to visit.

Explore the Beauty of New Brunswick

No matter how you spend it, the Victoria Day long weekend is the perfect excuse to get out and explore everything New Brunswick has to offer. From coastal adventures to small-town charm, this is your sign to make the most of the first long weekend of summer.