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.