Bridgewater is preparing to host a new one-day music and arts festival this weekend, as organizers of the Shipyard Shindig look to draw attention—and crowds—to the town’s growing creative scene.
Set at Shipyards Landing, the event will feature 11 musical acts from across Nova Scotia, a variety of food trucks and local market vendors, art installations, and a licensed beer garden offering wine, cider, and local craft beverages.
James Dobbin, co-founder of the Golden Shores Music Society, says the idea came from a desire to showcase what Bridgewater has to offer.
“I moved back to the South Shore after 20 years away and just felt like Bridgewater needed more community-driven events,” Dobbin said. “We wanted to create something that not only celebrates local talent but also gives people a reason to stay in town or visit here, not just pass through.”
Dobbin says they had originally considered a different location but decided on Shipyards Landing after driving by one day and realizing it had the perfect setup.
Advance tickets are $40 and available at shipyardshindig.ca. Prices increase at the gate. Gates open Saturday morning and the music runs all day.
Town staff recently fenced off a nesting area for turtle eggs that were discovered at the park to ensure they won’t be disturbed during the event.
Festivalgoers are encouraged to bring a small towel or chair, a reusable water bottle, and prepare for light rain just in case. Outside food and alcohol won’t be permitted due to licensing rules.
Organizers have arranged for parking at the South Shore Centre’s Sobeys lot, which is about a 10-minute walk from the venue. Roads near Shipyards Landing will be closed off during the event.
Dobbin says success this year will come down to turnout.
“There’s a misconception that $40 is expensive, but for 11 hours of music and everything else, we think it’s a great value,” he said. “We’re not-for-profit, but we’ve had to front the costs ourselves, and we’d love to build this into an annual event.”
He adds that the team—made up of Dobbin, Adam, Tiffany, and Carolyn—has been working hard behind the scenes.
“We just hope people come out, check it out, and experience something new in Bridgewater.”
