10 Things to Know About Lobster Crawl in Nova Scotia’s South Shore
Published February 9th, 2024
Photography by Jay Kana
In a few short years, Nova Scotia’s Lobster Crawl has become a popular attraction and event for both locals and visitors. There’s more to this than lobster; it’s a month-long celebration across various communities, delicious dishes and a fantastic reason experience Nova Scotia in winter.
Let’s dig into 10 cool things to know about this fantastic February festival!
When is Nova Scotia’s Lobster Crawl?
Every February and recently, it lasts for the entire month and takes place along the South Shore region. You heard it here first; I bet they’ll expand it to other regions of Nova Scotia in the coming years based on how popular it has become.
Where is Nova Scotia’s Lobster Crawl Held?
Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
Along the stunning South Shore region from Barrington to Peggy’s Cove. There are plenty of points and ports in between for you to enjoy and experience this ever-growing community initiative.
Where is Canada’s Lobster Capital?
Barrington has its claws on being the lobster capital of Canada. Nova Scotia’s website says “The lobster fishing grounds off Barrington’s shores are amongst the richest in the world and lobster has been the economic backbone of communities in this area since the 1800’s. They even build a Christmas tree out of lobster traps during the holidays.”
Of the 45 lobster fishing districts in Canada, Barrington holds sections 33 and 34. Interestingly and unsurprisingly, all 45 are along Canada’s east coast.
Nova Scotia produces approximately between 300 and 350 million pounds of lobster yearly and ends up in various parts of the world.
Why Was Nova Scotia’s Lobster Crawl Created?
Simply put, to show that winter in Nova Scotia is cool…errr, hot? Cool? Both!
Donna Hachey-Hatt, one of the inspiring minds behind Lobster Crawl says “As an industry, we were seeking opportunities to grow business opportunities, and change perspectives about winter in the South Shore region.”
Read the full interview with her on the history of Lobster Crawl.
What Makes the Best Lobster Roll?
Simply put, it’s based on preference.
Traditionalists and purists, including Lady Loves Lobster, goes with a toasted hotdog bun lightly brushed with garlic butter, chunks of lobster meat seasoned with salt, pepper and real mayo.
During my week experiencing Lobster Crawl, I had lobster rolls with lettuce. I had some that grilled the bread. Some had sesame seeds on the bun. Some were Asian inspired with coleslaw. One was served on a croissant instead of a traditional bun.
The 2024 Lobster Roll-Off winner consisted of Atlantic lobster, braised beef sirloin, pickled onion, grilled corn and bacon salsa, smokey chipotle aioli, mixed greens on a toasted pretzel baguette, topped with two panko breaded lobster claws.
Some had mayonnaise, some had butter, some had neither.
There’s no limit to what your ideal lobster roll consists of.
My perfect lobster roll is served on a hotdog bun with a bit of mayo for texture, salt, pepper and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, finished off with a side of crispy French fries and a frosty glass of ginger ale.
What Else is There to Eat During Lobster Crawl Aside From Lobster Rolls?
So, so, so much! Steamed lobster is a great option for those who are gluten-free. There’s the popular creamed lobster, lobster Mac and Cheese, various pasta dishes with lobster, lobster bruschetta and well, you get the point. The restaurants here are creative and have many options.
There’s a Lobster Roll-Off Competition!
Since launching in 2018, there’s been a competition for the crown of best lobster roll, with the one exception being in 2021 when it wasn’t held due to you-know-what.
Being a judge in 2024, entries are judged on presentation and taste. If you act early, you can be a spectator before it sells out. Plus, there are local vendors each year and it’s a cool community event worth attending.
Lucy The Lobster
Groundhog Day makes waves in Nova Scotia’s South Shore with Lucy The Lobster. Step aside, Wiarton Willie and Shubenacadie Sam! Taking place at the Cape Sable Island Causeway, the community gathers for a fun event to see what Lucy has to say about six more weeks of winter.
There’s a mascot, true community spirit, visitors, The Weather Network, national Canadian news outlets and this year, CNN mentioned it!
There’s lots to do in the South Shore of Nova Scotia During Lobster Crawl
Des Brisay Museum in Bridgewater
From live music, community events, museums, delightful driving routes, breweries and wineries and more, there’s so much to see and do here.
Yes, lobster is a key component yet not the only one. There are various communities, each with something interesting to offer and worth spending time in.
Ideas include the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre, Des BriSay Museum, Barrington’s Museum Complex, Lunenburg’s Walking Tours, the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic in Lunenburg and a spa experience at Oceanstone Seaside Resort.
There are Great Places to Stay Along the South Shore
Oceanstone Seaside Resort
You’ll need to recharge after all this eating of lobster and activities. There’s a variety of places to get a good nights sleep, including The Starboard inn & Portside Lounge, The Loyalist Inn & Suites, The Lunenburg Arms Hotel & Spa and The Oceanstone Seaside Resort.
Visit our Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and YouTube channels for more videos and pictures.
To plan your Lobster Crawl experience:
novascotia.com
visitsouthshore.ca
