LINE UP
THE MCMILLAN’S CAMP BOYS
THE GATHERING GROUNDS
THURSDAY & SATURDAY
The McMillan’s Camp Boys have spent the last several years constantly on the road, bringing their vast repertoire of traditional country, bluegrass, and old-time music to audiences all across Canada. From the dirt roads of Dawson City, Yukon, to the rocky shores of St. John’s, Newfoundland, the duo has honed their sound; tight vocal harmonies accompanied by banjo, fiddle, mandolin, and guitar. Their latest album, “Runty in the Tallgrass” is out now on Dartmouth’s Big Turnip Records.
SHENOVA
THE GATHERING GROUNDS
FRIDAY & SATURDAY
SheNova brings together accomplished Nova Scotia musicians for a spirited blend of traditional music, old-time fiddling and vocals. Drawing on extensive individual performing and recording careers, the group moves easily from high-energy jigs and reels to ballads, original compositions and storytelling.
HALIFAX PIER
THE GATHERING GROUNDS
THURSDAY
Halifax Pier brings together some of Nova Scotia’s most seasoned musicians for a high-energy mix of traditional East Coast favourites, Celtic music, classic hits and contemporary crowd-pleasers. Their dynamic, crowd-engaging performance celebrates the region’s rich musical heritage.
AISLING HIGHLAND DANCERS
THE GATHERING GROUNDS
SATURDAY
Based in Halifax, Nova Scotia, the Aisling Dancers is a group of Highland dancers who are grounded in tradition but inspired by a more modern and contemporary style of performance. On stage you’ll see the strength and elegance of Highland dance blended with a fresh and upbeat energy that will leave you wanting more.
BELL MEDIA HOSTS?
THE GATHERING GROUNDS
SATURDAY
BELL MEDIA BIO?
RACHEL DAVIS &
DARREN MCMULLEN
THE GATHERING GROUNDS
FRIDAY
Rachel Davis & Darren McMullen are an acclaimed East Coast duo blending traditional music with contemporary songwriting and arrangements. Their debut album Home won the 2024 Music Nova Scotia Award for Traditional Recording of the Year and earned nominations at both the Canadian Folk Music Awards and East Coast Music Awards.
MERIMAC
HARBOUR STEIN PARTY AT THE LOWER DECK
SATURDAY
Merimac is a Halifax-based live band known for creating an energetic, all-ages party atmosphere. Performing full-time since 2001, the group covers everything from Maritime and Celtic music to current pop, classic rock, country, R&B and dance favourites.
LAURIE MACDOUGALL SOOKRAJ
THE GATHERING GROUNDS
SATURDAY
Laurie MacDougall Sookraj is a Toronto-based strongwoman who, in August 2026, became the first Canadian woman to lift the 733-pound Dinnie Stones at the Aboyne Highland Games, Scotland.