A LOVE LETTER TO THE ANNAPOLIS VALLEY
Jenn Manuel
Dear Annapolis Valley,
DANIELLE WISEN Co-Owner and Operator
MANNETTE Co-Owner and Operator
CONTRIBUTORS: Wendy Elliott, Margot Bishop, Horton Music, Kathleen Purdy, Kimberly Smith, Jenn Manuel, Annita Phagoo Nichol, Patrick Kelly, Mike Butler Graysen Parker, Bea Smith, Yana Tan, Kim Barlow, Garry Leeson, Toshia McDonald, MK Dawson , Rob Wolf, Mark Oakley, Mackenzie Francis Tomlin, Della Blossom Anderson
DELIVERIES: Fred Phillips/Sarah Roberts, Conrad Schofield, Karen & Earle Illsley, Angie Govier, Sue Clarke, Katie Forman
ADVERTISING
SUBMISSIONS
Ads are available in colour or black & white, in sizes ranging from a single block to a full page.
See our ad rate card at: grapevinepublishing.ca/rates or contact sales@ grapevinepublishing.ca for more info.
ADVERTISING: sales@grapevinepublishing.ca
GENERAL INQUIRIES: info@grapevinepublishing.ca
CONTENT SUBMISSIONS: info@grapevinepublishing.ca
CLASSIFIEDS: sales@grapevinepublishing.ca
SNAIL MAIL: Grapevine Publishing, PO Box 2262 Wolfville, NS, B4P 1A0 ALSO AVAILABLE ONLINE: grapevinepublishing.ca and issuu.com/thevalleygrapevine
WHERE TO FIND US
WINDSOR: Gerrish & Gray, Lisa’s Cafe, Mosaic Market, Spitfire, Post Office, Library, Makers Studio
HANTSPORT: Post Office, Library
GRAND-PRÉ: Domaine de Grand Pré, Just Us! Café
GASPEREAU: Reid’s Meats & KwikWay, XTR Kwik-Way
WOLFVILLE: Carl’s Your Independent Grocer, Eos Natural Foods, Just Us! Café, T.A.N. Coffee, Library, Wolfville Farmers’ Market
GREENWICH: Avery’s Farm Market, Elderkin’s Farm Market, Hennigar’s Farm Market, Noggins Corner Farm Market, Stirling’s
PORT WILLIAMS: Library, Post Office, The Noodle Guy
CANNING: ArtCan Gallery, Degraaf’s Kwik-Way, ValuFoods
KENTVILLE: Half Acre Café, Jason’s Your Independent Grocer, Library, Maritime Express, Post Office,
T.A.N. Coffee, Valley Regional Hospital
COLDBROOK: Access Nova Scotia, T.A.N. Coffee, Callister’s Country Kitchen, Foodland
BERWICK: North Mountain Coffeehouse, Rising Sun Natural Foods, Union Street Café, Wilsons Pharmasave
KINGSTON: Green Elephant Café, Library, Roof Hound Brewing Co
GREENWOOD: Post Office, Family Natural Foods, Country Store
MIDDLETON: Library, Post Office, Angie’s Restaurant
WILMOT: Gouchers Farm Market, Spurr Brothers Farm Market
LAWRENCETOWN: Ebb & Tide Café, Library, Bee’s Knees General Store & Bakery
BRIDGETOWN: Nob’s CJ Farm Market, Library
ANNAPOLIS: Library, King’s Theatre, Sissiboo Coffee, Mad Hatter
Wine Bar, The Garrison House Inn, Annapolis Brewing Co., The Red Onion Market, MareGold Bookstore
This February we are reflecting on all the ways we’ve fallen for you. You are more than a collection of communities; you are a feeling, a rhythm, a way of life that captures the hearts of those who are lucky enough to know you.
We love your beauty, the kind that shines in every season. From the misty mornings when the fog settles between the mountains, to the fiery sunsets that light up our skies and the ocean cliffs along your shore, we are reminded that nature is the greatest artist of all.
We love your bounty, the fruits of your fertile soil and the work of the hands that nurture it. The crisp apples, the sweet berries, the hearty root vegetables and the wines that speak of your terroir all tell a story of care and connection.
Most of all, we love your people. The farmers, artisans and makers who pour their hearts into their craft. The communities that gather at farmers’ markets, festivals and kitchen tables, sharing food, stories and laughter.
You help us to slow down, to savour, to appreciate. You remind us that love is not just a feeling, but something we do - whether it’s nurturing the land, supporting our neighbours, or welcoming visitors in a way that feels good.
Thank you for being a place where love grow in the soil, in the air and in the daily connections we make.
With all our hearts, FoodArtNature
Photo courtesy of Wes Booth
ACCESS WELLNESS: MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
Rob Wolf
Mental health is something we all need to support, and there are many ways to look after our mental well-being, such as exercise, sleep, nutrition, positive self-regard, and social supports. However, there are times when we may need the help of a trusted friend, relative, or a trained professional to manage the challenges we face.
People often ask, “How do I know when to seek professional help?” Here are a few signs that reaching out to a mental health professional may be the right step:
Changes in behaviour or personality, disrupted eating or sleeping patterns, or difficulty coping with daily activities.
Emotional distress, trouble regulating emotions, or prolonged sadness, depression, or apathy.
Unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse or destructive behaviour. Suicidal thoughts, or statements about suicide or harming others.
Excessive anxiety or anxiety that has become debilitating.
Relationship issues you want to address. Going through an unsettling transition or experiencing a traumatic event.
These are common human experiences that we can often manage on our own, but sometimes we need help. If you have a counsellor, don’t hesitate to reach out. If you haven’t worked with a counsellor before, Nova Scotia offers free mental health consultations through Access Wellness.
Access Wellness is a free, single-session supportive counselling service for individuals, couples, or families. Professional counsellors can help with stress, mild to moderate depression or anxiety, relationship issues, general mental health concerns, grief and more. The service is covered by Nova Scotia Health.
Consultations are available in person in Kentville, Halifax, New Glasgow, and Sydney, or via virtual meetings or phone, depending on what works best for you. Most appointments can be booked within 48 hours, with a maximum wait time of five days. All consultations are confidential.
As we continue into the winter months, when many of us struggle with our mental health, it’s a great time to take that important first step. Remember, you are worth it!
Access Wellness Nova Scotia
Phone: 1.833.691.2282
Website: accesswellnessnovascotia.com
HIDDEN GEMS
Margot Bishop
February’s hidden gem could be the love you show yourself and others—a respect that will stay with you forever. As the song lyrics say, “Love will keep us together.” This attitude can brighten the shortest month of the year.
The romance of February is also reflected in some unique designations for the month. It’s known as Creative Romance Month, Spunky Old Broads Month (tongue firmly in cheek), Weddings Month, and An Affair to Remember Month—though it’s unclear if the latter refers to the movie or a fond memory.
February 2025 marks the start of the Year of the Snake. The snake symbolizes wisdom, and since 2025 ends in an odd number, it is considered a yin year, representing coolness, contemplation, and receptivity. Start the month in style with Broken Leg Theatre on Feb. 1. Hugs and hisses for the Year of the Snake, of course!
February is also Black History Month, a time to honour and remember important figures:
Feb. 1: Frederick Douglass (1818)
Feb. 4: Rosa Parks (1913)
Feb. 16: Ice-T (1958)
Feb. 17: Jim Brown (1936) and Michael Jordan (1963)
Feb. 20: Sidney Poitier (1927)
Feb. 27: Fats Domino (1902)
Astrologically, Aquarius (the water bearer) rules until Feb. 18, followed by Pisces (the fish).
There are no religious holidays in February 2025, but recognized Canadian observances include:
Groundhog Day on Feb. 2
Valentine’s Day on Feb. 14
National Flag of Canada Day on Feb. 15
Family Day on Feb. 17
As you move through this second month of 2025, consider your actions carefully. Every decision has consequences, big or small. Think before you speak. Remember those who came before you. The love and respect you show others will reflect your goodness.
Stay safe. Smile. Show wisdom. Be a gem and shine brightly in the dark months of winter.
© 2025 Rob Brezsny • freewillastrology.com • Horoscopes for February
ARIES (March 21-April 19): In 2025, I would love for you to specialize in making new connections and deepening your existing connections. I hope you will summon extra creativity and panache as you regularly blend your beautiful energies with others’ beautiful energies. I predict you will thrive on linking elements that should be linked but have never been before. What do you think, Aries? Does it sound fun to become a playful master of mixing and combining? Would you enjoy generating splashy unifications that serve your dreams?
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): “Confidence is 10 percent hard work and 90 percent delusion,” declared Taurus comedian Tina Fey. But I believe you will disprove that assessment in the coming months. The work you do will be unusually replete with grace and dynamism. It will be focused and diligent work, yes, but more importantly, it will be smart work that’s largely free of delusion. That’s why I’m inclined to revise Fey’s formula for your sake. In 2025, your brimming levels of confidence will be primarily due to your fine, conscientious, effective work.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): In the 1960s, a Swedish journalist tried an experiment. He wanted to see if art critics could distinguish between abstract paintings made by skilled artists and those created by a four-year-old chimpanzee whose pseudonym was Pierre Brassau. Surprise! Many of the critics treated all the paintings with equal respect. One even gave special praise to Pierre Brassau, describing his strokes of color as having “the delicacy of a ballet dancer.” I’m authorizing you to unleash your inner Pierre Brassau in the coming months, Gemini. Be an innocent rookie, a newcomer with great instincts, an exuberant amateur who specializes in fun experiments. Do you know what beginner’s mind is? You approach every experience with zero assumptions or expectations, as if you were seeing everything for the first time. For more, read this: wikipedia.org/wiki/Shoshin
CANCER (June 21-July 22): Ohio’s Cuyahoga River used to catch on fire regularly. The cause was pollution. For a hundred years, industries had poured their wastes into the waterway. The surface was often dotted with oil slicks. But after a notorious river fire in 1969, the locals decided to remedy the situation, aided by the newly established Environmental Protection Agency. Today, the Cuyahoga still isn’t 100% clean, but it’s far better. It hosts kayaking, fishing, and paddle boarding. I propose we use its rehabilitation as a symbol for you in 2025. You will have welcome opportunities to clean up messes that have lingered for far too long. Please take full advantage of these cosmic invitations to sweep karmic debris out of your life.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Steve Jobs, founder of Apple computers, said, “The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do.” I propose that you make this one of your mottoes in 2025. More than ever before, you will have exceptional power to transform the environments you share with others. You will have an enhanced ability to revise and reinvigorate the systems and the rules you use. Don’t underestimate your influence during the coming months, Leo. Assume that people will be listening especially closely to your ideas and extra receptive to be affected by you.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): I will give you four related terms to describe your key motif in 2025: 1. Your Soul’s Code. 2. Your Master Plan. 3. Your Destiny’s Blueprint. 4. Your Mission Statement. All four are rooted in this epic question: What is your overarching purpose here on earth, and how are you fulfilling it? The coming months will be a time when you can make dramatic progress in formulating vivid, detailed visions of the life you want to live. You can also undertake robust action steps to make those visions more of a practical reality. I encourage you to write your big-picture, longrange dreams in a special notebook or a file
on your tech device. Keep adding to the text throughout the coming months.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): People in India were the first to discover diamonds buried in the earth. Most historians believe it happened in the 4th century BCE. For the next two millennia, India remained the only source of diamonds. Finally, new stashes were found in Brazil in 1725 and in South Africa in the 1870s. Let’s use this 2,000- year gap as a metaphor for your life. I suspect that far too many months have passed since you have located a fresh source of a certain treasure or bounty you crave. That will change in 2025. Here come long-delayed blessings!
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): In my vision of your life in 2025, you will dramatically enhance how togetherness works for you. Below are four questions to help guide your explorations and breakthroughs. 1. Is it feasible to change yourself in ways that enable you to have a more satisfying relationship with romantic love? 2. Will you include your intimate relationships as an essential part of your spiritual path—and vice versa? 3. What work on yourself can you do to heal your old wounds and thereby make yourself a better partner and collaborator?
4. Can you help your best allies to heal their wounds and thereby become better partners and collaborators?
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In Japanese, the word for “frog” sounds similar to the word meaning “to return.” That’s one reason frogs have been lucky in some circles of Japanese culture. They symbolize the blessing that occurs when travelers return home safely, or when health is restored, or when spent money is replenished. I bring this to your attention, Sagittarius, because I suspect 2025 will be a time when satisfying and enjoyable returns will be a key theme. Consider keeping the likeness of a lovable frog in your living space.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Since 1985, musician David Gilmour has led Pink Floyd. The band has sold over 250 million records. He’s in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in both the UK and the US. But my favorite thing about Gilmour is that he’s a passionate activist who has crusaded for animal rights, environmentalism, poverty, and human rights. A few years ago, he auctioned off 120 of his guitars, raising over $21 million for an environmentalist charity. In accordance with astrological omens, I propose we make him one of your inspirational role models in 2025, Capricorn. May he mobilize you to use your stature and clout to perform an array of good works that are of service to your world.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Aquarian author Virginia Woolf extolled the virtues of cultivating a supple soul that thrives on change. She pledged to be relentless in her commitment to be authentically herself and not succumb to groupthink. I recommend you make these two of your featured themes in 2025. To inspire your efforts, I will quote her radical perspective at length: “Movement and change are the essence of our being; rigidity is death; conformity is death: let us say what comes into our heads, repeat ourselves, contradict ourselves, fling out the wildest nonsense, and follow the most fantastic fancies without caring what the world does or thinks or says.”
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): In 1992, two friends promised each other that if either of them ever won the lottery, they would share it with the other. Twenty-eight years later, that’s exactly what happened. In 2020, Thomas Cook bought a ticket that turned out to be the winner of the Powerhouse jackpot in Wisconsin. He called Joseph Feeney with the good news. After paying taxes, both men were $5.7 million richer. I am not predicting the exact same sequence for your future, Pisces. But like Cook and Feeney, I expect you will glean pleasing rewards generated from seeds planted in the past.
UPCOMING EVENTS
* Shaded events take place weekly or more than once, as noted
SATURDAY, 1
Breakfast — Belmont Community Hall, Newport 7:30–10am TIX: $10 each
Breakfast — Royal Canadian Legion, Wolfville 8–10am • BREAKFAST - Wolfville Legion, 8-10am TIX: adult $12, children 12 and under $10, children under 3 free. INFO 902;542-5869 TIX: Adults $12, Children 12 and under $6 while children under three are free. INFO: 902-542-5869
Breakfast — Lions Club, Kentville 8–10am TIX: $10 per Adult $5 for children under 10 INFO: 902-679-2367
Breakfast — Lions Club, Berwick 8–10am • Full Breakfast: Bacon, Sausages, Pancakes, Toast, Made to order Eggs, Homemade Bake Beans. Tea, Coffee and Apple Juice. TIX: $5 for Kids $10 for Adults INFO: 902-844-0238
Gals Gone Hiking — Crosby Trails, Coldbrook 10am–12pm TIX: Donation
Makers Space — 7 Arts, Greenwood 12:30–3:30pm • Creative, fun event with seasonal crafting. All ages welcome. Bring family and friends along to make a craft together. TIX: $10 per project. Take and Make kits starting at $5
Old Time Jam Session — Millstone Harvest Brewhouse, Sheffield Mills 2–4pm TIX: Free INFO: 902-582-2337
ArtBeat Lounge for Teens — 7 Arts, Greenwood 4–6pm • ArtBeat Lounge is your ultimate playground for artistic expression! For ages 13-18. TIX: Free Saturday Nights Live Music featuring Delhaven — The Port Taproom, Port Williams 6–9pm • Join us for the Celtic sound of Delhaven and don’t forget to bring your own instruments for a jam session. TIX: Free INFO: 902-542-5555
Broken Leg Theatre - Hugs & Hisses — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 7–9pm • Enjoy theatre, music, comedy, and dance at our next BLT - Hugs & Hisses celebrating the Year of the Snake in fun style! TIX: Tickets for this familyfriendly performance are only $10. At the Door or by contacting Donna at donnaholmes712@gmail.com
Broadway Bound — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 7pm TIX: Adult $20 Youth $5 No Tax. INFO: 902-532-7704 Square Dance — Ross Creek Annex, Canning 7:30–10pm • Family-friendly square dance in Canning, beginner friendly. TIX: Tickets are sliding scale $15-20 and families get in for $20
SpeakEasy: Campbell and Johnson SOLD OUT! — Community Hall, West Brooklyn 8–11pm • Campbell and Johnson bring the best of the blues! $20 Reservations required: 902-385-5426 TIX: $20 Tickets must be reserved in advance. Limited tickets available! Call Ruth at 902-542-5424 or call/text 902-385-5426. INFO: 902-385-5426
The Crossover Band — Lions Club, Auburn 9pm–1am TIX: $10 at Door **CASH ONLY Event**
SUNDAY, 2
Community Meditation Group — Bishop Hall, Greenwich 10:30am–12pm • Explore your experiences. Sitting & walking meditation, readings, and discussion (tea, cookies). Every Sunday. All welcome. TIX: Donations of any amount are gratefully accepted - every bit helps pay for the rental of the hall (and tea & cookies...) INFO: 902-542-7993
Catch Centreville Charlie — Centreville Park, Centreville 1–3:30pm • Join us for a Fun Run/Walk at Centreville Park to celebrate groundhog day with Centreville’s own Charlie! TIX: Free INFO: 902-690-6190
Acoustic Jam Session — Wayfarers’ Ale Brewery, Port Williams 2–5pm • Jam session, inviting everyone of all skill levels to come join and share songs, upstairs at Wayfarer’s Ale Brewery. TIX: Free INFO: 902-698-1660 Guided Walk / Snowshoe — Nictaux Station, Nictaux South 2–3:30pm • Join Annapolis County Recreation for a guided hike. Snowshoes, walking poles and shoe grips will be available. Prizes and re TIX: Free INFO: 902-955-0273
Broadway Bound — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 3pm TIX: Adult $20 Youth $5. No Tax. INFO: 902-532-7704 Sing Sing — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 4pm • Divine G, imprisoned at Sing Sing for a crime he didn’t commit, finds purpose by acting in a theatre group. TIX: Regular $13 Students $11 Tickets also available at the door.
Cash/Debit/Credit. INFO: 902-542-3344
Adult Art Lessons — 7 Arts, Greenwood 4–5pm • A fun adult series where you get to try anything and everything art related! TIX: $35 per class
Sing Sing — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 7pm • Divine G, imprisoned at Sing Sing for a crime he didn’t commit, finds purpose by acting in a theatre group. TIX: Regular $13 Students $11 Tickets also available at the door.
Cash/Debit/Credit. INFO: 902-542-3344
Irish Session Band — Paddy’s Pub, Wolfville 7:30–10pm
• Come down and join us for an evening of musical pleasures with your host “Jenny” TIX: Free INFO: 902-542-0059
MONDAY, 3
Soups and Sides — Wolfville Farmers’ Market, Wolfville 5–6:30pm TIX: Donation
Wilmot & Area Neighbourhood Watch Meeting — Wilmot Community Centre, Wilmot 6–7pm TIX: Donation
MLA Open House — MLA Julie Vanexan, New Minas 6–8pm • Open House Mon.Feb 3/25, with Julie Vanexan, MLA Kings South. 8789 Commercial Street, New Minas. Food and Refreshments incl. TIX: Free INFO: 902-691-2544
Open Mic — Paddy’s Pub, Wolfville 8–11pm • An enjoyable event of musicians showcasing their multi talented skills for an evening of great entertainment and atmosphere. TIX: Free INFO: 902-542-0059
TUESDAY, 4
The Valley Men’s Shed — Men’s Shed, Berwick 9am–2pm • The Valley Shed is a great place to meet other guys. We enjoy building wood projects for ourselves and our neighbours. TIX: Donation INFO: 647-381-8765
Fitness Fun for Seniors & Others — Community Hall, White Rock 9:30–10:30am • Fitness Fun for Seniors & Others, led by a trained senior fitness instructor. No signup required. $3 drop in fee. TIX: $3 per class INFO: 902-542-7234
Accessible & Adaptable Yoga — Windermere Community Hall, Berwick 10–11:15am • Accessible & Adaptable Yoga classes 2025! Similar to Chair Yoga. Come check it out! All Welcome! TIX: $5 INFO: 902-300-3391
Together in Movement & Exercise™ — Community Hall, White Rock 11am–12pm • T.I.M.E™ (Together in Movement & Exercise™) is a fitness program for people with balance & mobility challenges. TIX: $6/class INFO: 902-297-7389
One-on-One Employment Services — Berwick and District Library, Berwick 1–3pm • Join us to see how we can help you achieve your employment goals! TIX: Free INFO: 866-609-9675
Interview Skills Workshop — PeopleWorx, Coldbrook 1–3pm TIX: Free INFO: 866-609-9675
45’s Card Parties — Community Hall, White Rock 1:30–4pm • Card Parties every Tuesday *afternoon* at 1:30. We play 45’s. Everyone welcome - just drop in. $4 fee. TIX: $4
Youth Artful Afternoons — 7 Arts, Greenwood 2–4pm • Get creative with a variety of art media and tools. All supplies are included, just bring your imagination! For ages 6-12. TIX: $15 per child per class
Mindfulness Meditation — Anglican Parish Hall, Berwick 3–4:30pm • Guided, walking and silent meditation in tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. Great stress relief and so much more.Everyone welcome. TIX: Free Storytime Adventures for Kids — Kings County Family Resource Centre, Kentville 3–5pm • Storytime Adventures for Kids When: Every Tuesday from 3-5pm, starting February 4th at Kings County Family Resource Centre TIX: Free INFO: 902-678-5760
Chess Club — Kentville Library, Kentville 4–5:30pm • Open to all ages and skill levels. Learn or rediscover the game, hone your skills, analyze games, and prep for tournaments. TIX: Free
Valley Community Supper — VCLA Community Hub, Kentville 5–6:30pm • Join us every Tuesday from 5-6.30pm (Food will be served from 5-6pm). Gluten free and vegan options always available. TIX: Donation INFO: 902-670-0234
King’s Kitchen — Emmanuel Congregational Church, Middleton 5:30–7pm TIX: Free INFO: 902-825-1777
Newcomers in Community Sing Along — VCLA Community Hub, Kentville 6:30–8pm • Bi-weekly community sing-along for old-timers, newcomers, families, new singers. All welcome! Free, drop-in. All welcome! TIX: Free
Crib — Windermere Community Hall, Berwick 7–9pm
• Doors open at 6 pm, crib games start at 7 pm. TIX: $6 (includes admission and high hand) and there is a 50/50 draw INFO: 902-538-7820 Irish Session Band — Paddy’s Pub, Kentville 7–9pm TIX: Free INFO: 902-678-3199
WEDNESDAY, 5
Well-Come Wednesdays! — Community Hall, West Brooklyn 12–2pm • Well-Come Wednesdays! Hot lunch; chair exercise; music with Sarah Pound. $7 410 W. Brooklyn Mtn Rd. Details: 902-385-5426 TIX: $7 INFO: 902-385-5426
Present Moments Singers — Wickwire Place, Wolfville 1:30–3pm • Wednesdays afternoons of music and singing, followed by an after-song-social with treats provided by the Wickwire kitchen. TIX: Free Winter Active Try It Out — South Shore Annapolis Valley Trail, Springfield 3–5pm • Springfield we’re coming to you! Drop by to try out equipment and talk winter active. TIX: Free INFO: 902-955-0273
Games — Paddy’s Pub, Kentville 6–9:30pm • KTABS invites you to an evening of board game fun! Enjoy delicious food, snacks, and drinks while you play. TIX: Free
Open Mic — T.A.N. Coffee, Wolfville 6–8pm • Open Mic
Tan Wednesday evenings in Wolville from 6 pm. to 8 pm welcomes new musicians. Love to have you. TIX: Free INFO: 902-412-7910
Jam Session — Lions Club, Kentville 6:30–9pm • Kentville Lions Club-Jam Session in Memory of Mark Clarke TIX: $2 INFO: 902-679-2367
Fun With Fibre — 7 Arts, Greenwood 6:30–8:30pm • Drop-in fibre crafting group (knitting, crochet, cross stitch, felting, etc). TIX: Donation
Accessible & Adaptable Yoga — Windermere Community Hall, Berwick 7–8:15pm • Accessible Yoga accommodates a wide range of abilities. Teacher J Woodworth has 15 years yoga/mindfulness teaching experience TIX: $5 INFO: 902-300-3391
Trivia Nite — Paddy’s Pub, Kentville 7–9pm TIX: Free INFO: 902-678-3199
Trivia Nite — Paddy’s Pub, Wolfville 8–10pm TIX: Free INFO: 902-542-0059
THURSDAY,
6
Farmer’s Market — Greenwood Mall, Greenwood 11am–4pm TIX: Free
Irish Set Dancing — Bishop Hall, Greenwich 1–3pm • Irish set dancing (similar to country square dancing) - no experience needed … just a fun couple of hours of dancing! TIX: $6 per person INFO: 902-679-9267
Storytime Adventures for Kids — Town Hall, Berwick 3–5pm • Storytime Adventures for Kids When: Every Thursday from 3-5pm, starting February 6th at the Town of Berwick Town Hall TIX: Free INFO: 902-678-5760
African Heritage Month Launch — Municipality of the County of Kings, Coldbrook 6–7:30pm • Join the annual AHM proclamation event and poster unveiling! 2025 theme: Legacy in Action: Celebrating Black Brilliance. TIX: Free INFO: 902-691-0854
Kentville Book League — Kentville Library, Kentville 6:30–7:30pm • Join this open-minded group on the first Thursday of each month to discuss the month’s book selection. Ages 18+. TIX: Free INFO: 902-679-2544
Trivia Night — Millstone Harvest Brewhouse, Sheffield Mills 6:30–9pm • Trivia Night - max team 6 people. Reservations required. TIX: Free INFO: 902-582-2337
Acoustic Jam Sessions — Ross Creek Annex, Canning 7–9pm • Weekly acoustic jam session, all ages and abilities welcome. By donation. TIX: Donation Trivia Night — The Port Taproom, Port Williams 7–9pm • Join us for Trivia Night hosted by Tyson. TIX: Free INFO: 902-542-5555
45’s — Royal Canadian Legion, Canning 7–9:30pm TIX: Entry charge $2 INFO: 902-582-3157
The Hilites (Bob Deveau) — Paddy’s Pub, Kentville 8–10pm TIX: Free INFO: 902-678-3199
FRIDAY, 7
Chair Exercise — Community Hall, White Rock 11am–12pm • Chair Exercise (not yoga) for aerobics & strength while seated. $3 drop in fee; no signup required. TIX: $3 per class, drop in The Music of the Spheres by Duncan Keppie — K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre, Wolfville 2–3pm • Music of the Spheres by Duncan Keppie TIX: Free INFO: 902-679-8604
Kingston Walk — Aurora Inn Grounds, Kingston 2–4pm TIX: Free
Ruth Curry Exhibit Opening — Tides Contemporary Art Gallery, Kentville 5–7pm • Join us for our monthly First Friday show opening. This month our guest artist is Ruth Curry. TIX: Free INFO: 902-365-3322
Terry Jagger — Kings Arms Pub, Kentville 5:30–9:30pm • Terry Jagger will be playing your favorite classic rock and some Celtic tunes. TIX: Free INFO: 902-790-3091
Macbeth — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 6:30pm • Come early and join us for a pre-show lecture about the play from Professor Anthony Harding, starting at 6:30pm. TIX: $17 Tickets also available at the door. Cash/Debit/Credit. INFO: 902-542-3344
Reggie & Eric Rand - Feel Good Friday — Millstone Harvest Brewhouse, Sheffield Mills 7–9pm TIX: Free INFO: 902-582-2337
Youth Open Mic — Ross Creek Annex, Canning 7–9:30pm • Youth Open Mic is back, with Sh!tgoblins headlining. TIX: Donation
Jam Session — Black Rock Culture and Recreation Hall, Black Rock 7–10pm • Join us for an evening of music and fun. Door prizes, 50/50/ and light lunch. Always good time on the mountain. Come on up! TIX: Donation INFO: 902-538-1259
Josephine, A Burlesque Cabaret Dream Play — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 7:30pm TIX: TICKETS: $35 HST additional King’s Theatre Box Office Hours: Tue - Fri 10am - 3pm INFO: 902-532-7704
Karaoke — West Side Charlies, New Minas 9pm–1am TIX: Free INFO: 681-9378
SATURDAY, 8
Community Breakfast — Masonic Hall, Berwick 7:30–10:30am • Join friends and neighbours as the Masons of Valley Lodge No. 90 make and serve you breakfast. TIX: $12 Adults $6 Children (12 and under) INFO: 902-538-5888
Community Pancake Breakfast — Pereaux Baptist Church, Pereau 8–10am • Enjoy a breakfast of sausage, baked beans, scrambled eggs, pancakes, tea, coffee, juice, live music and a bake table. TIX: $10 Adults and $5 for children 12 and under. INFO: 902-582-3058
Frugal Moms Clothing Giveaway — United Baptist Church, Port Williams 10am–4pm • Free clothing Giveaway hosted by frugal moms February 8th 2025 doors open at 10am TIX: Free James and the Giant Peach — CentreStage Theatre, Kentville 11am TIX: Adults/$10 Children under 12/$7 Cash only at the door Reserve your seat 24/7 at 902-678-8040 INFO: 902-678-8040
Story Time with Joanna — Isaiah W. Wilson Memorial Library, Digby 12:30–1:30pm • Join Joanna Jarvis as she shares her fun-filled book Josiah Wigglewart. TIX: Free INFO: 902-245-2163
45s Card Tournament — Belmont Community Hall, Newport 1–4pm • Bring a Partner and enjoy 45’s and community All ages for Novice to Advanced. TIX: $5. per person, with 50/50 and door prizes
Nature Immersion in the Acadian Forest — McMaster Mill Historic Park, Kingston 1–4pm • Guided meditation, forest bathing, and mindfulness practices with Wil, your Nature and Forest Therapy Guide! TIX: $80 per adult (14+) + HST + booking fee, $50 per child (7-14) + HST + booking fee. Children under 7 are free. INFO: 902-385-8080
James and the Giant Peach — CentreStage Theatre, Kentville 2pm TIX: Adults/$10 Children under 12/$7 Cash only at the door Reserve your seat 24/7 at 902-678-8040 INFO: 902-678-8040
Saturday Nights Live Music featuring Delhaven — The Port Taproom, Port Williams 6–9pm • Join us for the Celtic sound of Delhaven and don’t forget to bring your instruments for a jam session. TIX: Free INFO: 902-542-5555
Crokinole Social & Tournament — Lunn’s Mill Beer Company, Lawrencetown 6:30–9:30pm • Free Crokinole Social + Pay-to-play Tournament, Free play: 2-4pm, Tourney: 6:30-9:30pm, $10, cash prizes, registration req’d. TIX: $10
Salsa Dance Workshop — YogaLife, Wolfville 7–8:30pm • Salsa Dance Workshop. Beginner and experienced dancers welcome. TIX: Price is $20 per person in advance or at the door.
Drag Bingo — The Mermaid, Windsor 7–9pm • Join us for The Mermaid’s first-ever Drag Bingo on February 8th! TIX: $20 + hst INFO: 902-798-5841
Josephine, a Musical Play — Festival Theatre, Wolfville 7:30pm • Before Ella, Tina or Beyonce, there was JOSEPHINE! A Theatrical Tour-de-Force about the life of Josephine Baker. TIX: $45 (regular) $25 (Students) Acadia Box Office INFO: 902-542-5500
SpeakEasy: Yarrow — Community Hall, West Brooklyn 8–11pm • Yarrow Trio with Sam Wilson, Nicola Miller & Gabriella Ciurcovich. $20 Reservations required: 902-385-5426 TIX: $20 Tickets must be reserved in advance. Limited tickets available! Call Ruth at 902-542-5424 or call/text 902-385-5426. INFO: 902-385-5426
Trent McClellan of 22 Minutes — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 8–10pm • Trent McClellan is a stand-up comedian, writer, podcaster, and actor known for 22 Minutes and Halifax Comedy Fest TIX: $30
Little Shop Of Horrors Drag Show — Kings Arms Commons, Wolfville 8pm • FEED ME! Come check out Skid Row and Little Shop of Horrors Drag Style! Get ready for a fabulous evening filled with song. TIX: $15 in Advance on Eventbrite $20 at the door
DJ Gizmo — West Side Charlies, New Minas 10pm–2am • Video Dance party TIX: $5
SUNDAY, 9
Valentine’s Tea Party & Card Workshop — Millstone Harvest Brewhouse, Sheffield Mills 12–3pm • Join us for an afternoon Tea Party and Valentine card creativity. TIX: $25 INFO: 902-582-2337
Annapolis Valley Forest Bathing — McMaster Mill Historic Park, Kingston 1–5pm • An invitation of self-discovery and intimate relationship with nature through guided meditation, forest bathing, and more. TIX: $140 per adult (14+) + HST + booking fee, $100 per child (7-14) + HST + booking fee. Children under 7 are free. Macbeth - Stage to Screen — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 3pm TIX: TICKETS: $15.95 HST additional INFO: 902-532-7704
The Room Next Door — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 4pm
• After years of being out of touch, close friends meet again in an extreme but strangely sweet situation. TIX: Regular $13 Students $11 Tickets also available at the door. Cash/Debit/Credit. INFO: 902-542-3344
Adult Art Lessons — 7 Arts, Greenwood 4–5pm • A fun adult series where you get to try anything and everything art related! This week is - Watercolour TIX: $35 per class
The Room Next Door — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 7pm
• After years of being out of touch, close friends meet again in an extreme but strangely sweet situation. TIX: Regular $13 Students $11 Tickets also available at the door. Cash/Debit/Credit. INFO: 902-542-3344
TUESDAY, 11
Mindfulness Meditation — Anglican Parish Hall, Berwick
3–4:30pm • Guided, walking and silent meditation in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. Good for stress relief and more. Everyone welcome. TIX: Free
Song Circle — VCLA Community Hub, Kentville 6:30–8:30pm • Beginners to advanced jam session that has to be experienced in person! TIX: Free INFO: 902-701-3162
WEDNESDAY, 12
Recreational Crokinole Tournament — The Church Brewing Company, Wolfville 6:30–9:30pm • Casual Crokinole Tournament, 6:30-9:30pm, $15 each, $10 for members, cash prizes! Registration req’d. Free play from 6-630pm! TIX: $15 registration, $10 for club members
The Room Next Door — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 7–9pm TIX: TICKETS: $10.95 Adult $6.95 Youth (HST additional) Box Office Tue - Fri 10:00pm - 3:00 pm INFO: 902-532-7704
Makers Meet — Community Hall, White Rock 10–2pm • Open to anyone looking for space & friends to bring your projects and work alongside other like-minded people. TIX: $3 drop in INFO: 902-542-3833
THURSDAY, 13
Play, Paint, Print! — Elephant Grass Printmakers Society, Annapolis Royal 12:30–2:30pm • 4 afternoons of fun and creative play interpreting Nature through simple printmaking ideas with Lorna Mulligan TIX: $140 (members) 165 (non-members) 4 sessions starting Feb. 13
Senior Drum Circle — 7 Arts, Greenwood 1–2pm • The HealthRHYTHMS drum circle helps you feel calm and connected. We explore creativity through rhythms and wellness exercises TIX: Free Science Club — Isaiah W. Wilson Memorial Library, Digby 3–4pm • Children aged 7-11 can explore the wonders of science through exciting, themed experiments. Register by Tuesday, Feb. 11. TIX: Free INFO: 902-245-2163
Trivia Night — The Port Taproom, Port Williams 6–9pm • Join us for Trivia Night hosted by Tyson. Bring your best crew and compete for prizes. TIX: Free INFO: 902-542-5555
Wolfville and Area Newcomers Club — Royal Canadian Legion, Wolfville 7–9pm • Wolfville & area Newcomers are celebrating Valentine’s Day at their next meeting. Come have fun and enjoy some sweet treats. TIX: Free INFO: 226-972-5197
Tanner & Arron — Paddy’s Pub, Kentville 8–10pm TIX: Free INFO: 902-678-3199
FRIDAY, 14
Online and Job Search — PeopleWorx, Coldbrook 9:30–11:30am TIX: Free INFO: 866-609-9675
Seniors Fun Afternoon — Royal Canadian Legion, Kingston 1–3:30pm TIX: $2 INFO: 902-765-4228
Silversmithing,The Undying Craft by Ross Morrow — K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre, Wolfville 2–3pm • Silversmithing - The Undying Craft by Ross Morrow TIX: Free INFO: 902-679-8604
Crafter Noons — Isaiah W. Wilson Memorial Library, Digby 2–4pm • Join other crafters to chat and share ideas. Bring your own supplies to work on your project while enjoying good company. TIX: Free INFO: 902-245-2163
Trouble on T Tracks - Dinner Theatre — Fire Hall, Middleton 5–9pm • Can you work out Whodunnit in the ADDG’s upcoming Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre “Trouble on T’ Tracks” TIX: $25 INFO: 902-825-6116
Valentine’s Day Dinner — Lions Club, Berwick 6–8pm TIX: $25 per ticket
Full Moon Family Fun — Horton Ridge Malt & Grain Company, Hortonville 6:30–8pm • Join Flying Squirrel Adventures for a family friendly moonlit walk along the beautiful Gaspereau River on Valentine’s nite. TIX: Free Don the Wiz - Feel Good Friday — Millstone Harvest Brewhouse, Sheffield Mills 7–9pm TIX: Free INFO: 902-582-2337
Dance — Royal Canadian Legion, Kentville 7–9:30pm • Friday Night Dancing every 2nd Friday hosted by Happy Dancers DJs Peter & Nancy. Dance tunes from the 60s90s. All Welcome! TIX: $5/person INFO: 902-678-8935 Jam Session — Black Rock Culture and Recreation Hall, Black Rock 7–10pm • Join us for an evening of music and fun. Door prizes, 50/50/ and light lunch. Always good times on the mountain. Come on up! TIX: Donation INFO: 902-538-1259
Chocolat — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 7pm • Chocolat is the ultimate date movie—and has been for 25 years! Join us for some romance and chocolate by Gabrielle TIX: Regular $12 (includes a artisanal chocolate from Chocolate by Gabrielle) Tickets also available at the door. Cash/Debit/Credit. INFO: 902-542-3344
Ben Caplan — The Mermaid, Windsor 8pm • Join us for a concert on Valentine’s Day with Ben Caplan! TIX: $35 + hst INFO: 902-798-5841
Line Dance with Sweet Bean — Ross Creek Annex, Canning 8pm • This Valentine’s Day, learn to line-dance and then put it to practice with great country music by Sweet Bean. TIX: Tickets $20 advance, $25 at the door. Kitchen Party!! — Lions Club, Kingston 8–11pm TIX: $20. This is a 19+ event. Cash Bar only. Tickets available at Kingston Village Office, Kingston Pharmasave or call (902) 389 3867. INFO: 902-765-2128
The Mellotones Dance — Old Orchard Inn, Wolfville 9pm–12:30am TIX: $49 + HST INFO: 902-542-5755
SATURDAY, 15
Big Breakfast — Community Hall, Centreville 7–10am TIX: Adult $10 Child $5 INFO: 902-678-3999 Winter Guided Hike — Provincial Park, Cape Split, Canning, NS 10am–4pm • Learn how to hike safely in winter! Guided hikes are perfect for individuals who want to meet new people and stay active! TIX: $5 per person INFO: 902-690-6190
James and the Giant Peach — CentreStage Theatre, Kentville 11am • Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach-James is on a magical voyage to New York City with all his insect friends TIX: Adults/$10 Children under 12/$7 INFO: 902-678-8040
KTABS February Games Day — Recreation Centre, Kentville 12–9pm • A full day of board gaming in Kentville. Bring your own games or borrow from our library. Donations to the Spike fund welcome TIX: Donation Alternatives, Karen Phillips-Curran — ARTSPLACE, Annapolis Royal 12–2pm TIX: Free INFO: 902-532-7069
Crib Tournament — Poplar Grove Community Hall, Brooklyn 1–4pm • CRIB Tournament - Bring a partner 50/50 - High Hand TIX: $20 per team INFO: 902-757-3912
Flow — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 2pm • Cat’s home is devastated by a flood, so Cat has to team up with various species, while taking refuge on a boat. TIX: Regular $13 Students $11 Children under 12 $8 Tickets also available at the door. Cash/Debit/Credit. INFO: 902-542-3344
James and the Giant Peach — CentreStage Theatre, Kentville 2pm • Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach-James is on a magical voyage to New York City with all his insect friends TIX: Adults/$10 Children under 12/$7 INFO: 902-678-8040
Baked Bean and Scalloped Potato Supper — Black River and District Community Hall, Black River 4–6pm • Baked Bean Scalloped Potato Sausage Supper Dessert a variety of cakes includes a roll, Tea, Coffee and Juice TIX: $15 per person INFO: 902-542-5173
Saturday Nights Live Music featuring Delhaven — The Port Taproom, Port Williams 6–9pm • Enjoy the Celtic sound of Delhaven and then stay for jam sessions so bring your instruments to join in the fun. TIX: Free INFO: 902-542-5555
Flow — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 7pm • Cat’s home is devastated by a flood, so Cat has to team up with various species, while taking refuge on a boat. TIX: Regular $13 Students $11 Children under 12 $8 Tickets also available at the door. Cash/Debit/Credit. INFO: 902-542-3344
Stephen Fearing — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 7:30–9:15pm TIX: $30 Adult $15 Youth HST additional King’s Theatre Box Office Hours: Tue - Fri 10am - 3pm INFO: 902-532-7704
SpeakEasy: South of the River — Community Hall, West Brooklyn 8–11pm • South of the River - Great covers of danceable favourites! $20 Reservations required: 902-385-5426 TIX: $20 Tickets must be reserved in advance. Limited tickets available! Call Ruth at 902-542-5424 or call/text 902-385-5426. INFO: 902-385-5426
The After Party with Linda McLean & The Awakening — The Church Brewing Company, Wolfville 10pm–12am • “After Party”. In collaboration with the Nova Scotia Winter Wine Festival, we are thrilled to host a night of good times! TIX: $25 + HST INFO: 902-542-2337
SUNDAY, 16
Tragedy Ann Lunch Matinee — Ross Creek Annex, Canning 12–2:30pm • Family-friendly matinee with folk duo Tragedy Ann, and great food by the Canning & District Lions Club, at Ross Creek Annex TIX: Tickets for music is $15 adults / kids -17 and under FREE. Lunch $15
African Diaspora Celebration — Ross Creek Centre for the Arts, Canning 1–4pm • Make art and enjoy food inspired by the cultural, artistic and culinary traditions of the diaspora! All are welcome. TIX: Donation INFO: 902-582-3842
Guided Walk / Snowshoe — Valleyview Provincial Park, Bridgetown 2–3:30pm • Guided hike. Snowshoes, walking poles and shoe grips available. Prizes and refreshments after. TIX: Free INFO: 902-955-0273
Duo Beija Flor — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 3pm TIX: $30 Adult $10 Youth HST additional King’s Theatre Box Office Hours: Tue - Fri 10am - 3pm INFO: 902-532-7704
Hard Truths — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 4pm • Ongoing exploration of the contemporary world with a tragicomic study of human strengths and weaknesses.
TIX: Regular $13 Students $11 Tickets also available at the door. Cash/Debit/Credit. INFO: 902-542-3344
Hard Truths — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 7pm • Ongoing exploration of the contemporary world with a tragicomic study of human strengths and weaknesses.
TIX: Regular $13 Students $11 Tickets also available at the door. Cash/Debit/Credit. INFO: 902-542-3344
MONDAY, 17
Heritage Day - Turf and Play / Skate and Play — West Hants Sports Complex, Windsor 10–11:45am TIX: $5/ person or $15/family Open House — Middleton Railway Museum, Middleton 11am–4pm • Celebrate the development of railways in the Annapolis Valley by enjoying a guided tour of our museum. TIX: Donation INFO: 902-221-6922
Heritage Day Open House — Kentville Historical Society, Kentville 1–4pm • Heritage Day Open House - New display re. Gladys Porter, former Mayor of Kentville and former Kings North MLA. All welcome. TIX: Free INFO: 902-678-8202
TUESDAY, 18
Mindfulness Meditation — Anglican Parish Hall, Berwick 3–4:30pm • Guided, walking and silent meditation in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. Good for stress relief and more. Everyone welcome TIX: Free
WEDNESDAY, 19
Take Out Luncheon — United Baptist Church, Port Williams 11:30am–12:15pm TIX: $10. INFO: 902-542-3681
Winter Active Try It Out — Fire Hall, Margaretsville 3–5pm • Margaretsville we’re coming to you! Drop by to try out equipment and talk winter active. TIX: Free INFO: 902-955-0273
I’m Still Here — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 7pm • A mother is forced to reinvent herself when her family’s life is shattered by an act of arbitrary violence in Brazil, 1971. TIX: Regular $13 Students $11 Tickets also available at the door. Cash/Debit/Credit. INFO: 902-542-3344
45s Card Night — Poplar Grove Community Hall, Brooklyn 7–10pm • 45’s Cards Night Every-Wednesday TIX: $5 per person
Sing Sing — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 7–9pm TIX: TICKETS: $10.95 Adult $6.95 Youth (HST additional) Box Office Tue - Fri 10:00pm - 3:00 pm INFO: 902-532-7704
Makers Meet + Card Making — Community Hall, White Rock 10–2pm • Open to anyone looking for space & friends to bring your projects and work alongside other like-minded people. TIX: $3 drop in INFO: 902-542-3833
THURSDAY, 20
Job Search Essentials — PeopleWorx, Middleton 10am–4pm TIX: Free INFO: 866-609-9675
Trivia Night — The Port Taproom, Port Williams 7–9pm • Bring your best crew and compete for prizes. TIX: Free INFO: 902-542-5555
Terry Jagger — Paddy’s Pub, Kentville 8–10pm • Terry Jagger will be playing your favorite classic rock and some Celtic tunes. TIX: Free INFO: 902-790-3091
Terry Jagger — Paddy’s Pub, Kentville 8–10pm TIX: Free INFO: 902-678-3199
FRIDAY, 21
Sleepy-Time Story Time — Isaiah W. Wilson Memorial Library, Digby 10:30–11am • Bring your favourite stuffed friend and cozy blanket to cuddle up for stories, songs, and activities. TIX: Free INFO: 902-245-2163
Music Jam with Maura — 7 Arts, Greenwood 1–3pm • Join musician Maura Edmunds at 7Arts for a fun afternoon of music! TIX: Suggested donation of $10 Directing Retreat — Ross Creek Centre for the Arts, Canning 6pm • Recharge and stretch your creativity, while enjoying the beautiful North Mountain landscape at this weekend retreat! TIX: $250-$375 INFO: 902-582-3842
The Importance of Being Earnest — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 7pm • Three-time Olivier Award-winner Sharon D Clarke is joined by Ncuti Gatwa (Doctor Who, Sex Education). TIX: $17 Tickets also available at the door. Cash/Debit/Credit. INFO: 902-542-3344
Tyler Salsman - Feel Good Friday — Millstone Harvest Brewhouse, Sheffield Mills 7–9pm TIX: Free INFO: 902-582-2337
Les Misérables (School Edition) — Horton High School, Greenwich 7–10pm • Les Misérables School Edition brings student talent and community collaboration to Victor Hugo’s timeless story. TIX: Adults: $18 Students: $12 INFO: 902-542-6060
SATURDAY,
22
Growing Together Through Grief Literacy (kids ages 4 to 9) — Carol`s Place, Berwick 10–11:30am • Children who have experienced the death of an important person in their lives are invited to join us. TIX: Free INFO: 403-467-7923
Painting with Joanna — Isaiah W. Wilson Memorial Library, Digby 11am–12:30pm • Adults can join Joanna Jarvis and paint a whimsical scene of birds in winter. Register no later than Wednesday, Feb. 19. TIX: Free INFO: 902-245-2163
James and the Giant Peach — CentreStage Theatre, Kentville 11am TIX: Adults/$10 Children under 12/$7 cash only/pay at the door Reserve your seat 24/7 at 902-678-8040 INFO: 902-678-8040 African Violet Society Meeting — Community Hall, Nicholsville 1–4pm • The Annapolis Valley African Violet Society is a great group where houseplant enthusiasts can learn and share new varieties. TIX: Free INFO: 902-825-4600
International Potluck — Christian Fellowship Centre, Wilmot 1:30pm • 2nd. Annual International Potluck at Christian Fellowship Centre, 208 Dodge Rd. Bring your favourite dish & try others. TIX: Free INFO: 902-698-9467
Speaker Series — Annapolis Royal Library, Annapolis Royal 2–3:30pm • Andy Kerr will Introduce us to AI and Chat GPT. His presentation will cover the basic concepts and simple explanations. TIX: Free INFO: 902-308-1150
Les Misérables (School Edition) — Horton High School, Greenwich 2–5pm • Les Misérables School Edition brings student talent and community collaboration to Victor Hugo’s timeless story. TIX: Adults: $18 Students: $12 INFO: 902-542-6060
James and the Giant Peach — CentreStage Theatre, Kentville 2pm TIX: Adults/$10 Children under 12/$7 Cash only/pay at the door Reserve your seat 24/7 at 902-678-8040 INFO: 902-678-8040
Casual Crokinole Social — Horton Ridge Malt & Grain Company, Hortonville 6–9pm • Social crokinole event, free & all welcome, no registration required; worldstandard boards for play; new players welcome! TIX: Free Saturday Nights Live Music featuring Delhaven — The Port Taproom, Port Williams 6–9pm • Enjoy the Celtic sound of Delhaven and stay for jam sessions afterward so don’t forget your instruments. TIX: Free INFO: 902-542-5555
Bachata Dance Workshop — YogaLife, Wolfville 7–8:30pm • Bachata Dance Workshop. Beginner and experienced dancers welcome. TIX: Price is $20 per person in advance or at the door.
Comedy, Music & Magic — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 7:30pm TIX: $35 Adult $10 Youth HST additional King’s Theatre Box Office Hours: Tue - Fri 10am - 3pm INFO: 902-532-7704
SpeakEasy: John Ebata & Friends — Community Hall, West Brooklyn 8–11pm • John Ebata, Paul Lauzon, and Ken Shorley present an evening of enchanting melodie! $20 Reservations required: 902-385-5426 TIX: $20 Tickets must be reserved in advance. Limited tickets available! Call Ruth at 902-542-5424 or call/text 902-385-5426. INFO: 902-385-5426
DJ IV — West Side Charlies, New Minas 10pm–2am • Halifax’s too DJ TIX: $10
SUNDAY, 23
Cribbage Tournament — Royal Canadian Legion, Wolfville 1–4pm • The Wolfville legion are hosting their 4th Sunday of the month crib tournament,everyone welcome TIX: $20 per team plus high hand and 50/50 draw INFO: 902-542-5869
Songwriter’s Circle — Macdonald Museum, Middleton 2–4pm • Join Mark Bezanson, Geoff Arsenault, Cheryl Gaudet and Lorne Allan for an afternoon of Songs & Stories TIX: $20/person INFO: 902-825-6116
Flow — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 3–8pm TIX: TICKETS: $10.95 Adult $6.95 Youth (HST additional) Box Office Tue - Fri 10:00pm - 3:00 pm INFO: 902-532-7704
MONDAY, 24
Life Through a Mask — 7 Arts, Greenwood 1–3pm • Life Through a Mask, a hands-on, peer-led Mask Sculpting workshop for CAF members & Veterans. No art experience necessary. TIX: Free Community Supper — Ross Creek Annex, Canning 5–6pm • Enjoy a free meal at the Annex, and join us beforehand for art activities from 3-5. All are welcome! TIX: Donation INFO: 902-582-3842
TUESDAY, 25
Resume/Cover Letter Workshop — PeopleWorx, Coldbrook 1–3pm TIX: Free INFO: 866-609-9675 Mindfulness Meditation — Anglican Parish Hall, Berwick 3–4:30pm • Mindfulness mediation - guided, walking and silent in the tradition of Thich Nhat Hanh. Everyone welcome. TIX: Free
Authors@Acadia presents Kate Beaton — Huggins Science Hall, Wolfville 7–8pm • Kate Beaton will read from her best-selling graphic memoir Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands, winner of Canada Reads 2023. TIX: Free WEDNESDAY, 26
Winter Active Try It Out — Democracy Waterfront Park, Bear River 3–5pm • Bear River we’re coming to you! Drop by to try out equipment and talk winter active. TIX: Free INFO: 902-955-0273
The Seed of the Sacred Fig — Al Whittle Theatre, Wolfville 7pm • Investigating judge Iman grapples with paranoia amid political unrest in Tehran. TIX: Regular $13 Students $11 Tickets also available at the door. Cash/ Debit/Credit. INFO: 902-542-3344
Canadian Federation of University Women — Wu Welcome Centre, Wolfville 7–9pm • CFUW Wolfville Club Night Interest group presentations are given and Yankie Swap is played. TIX: Free
Makers Meet + Weaving Demo — Community Hall, White Rock 10–2pm • Open to anyone looking for space & friends to bring your projects and work alongside other like-minded people. TIX: $3 drop in INFO: 902-542-3833
THURSDAY, 27
The Barkhouse Boyz — Paddy’s Pub, Kentville 8–10pm TIX: Free INFO: 902-678-3199
FRIDAY, 28
Computing the Cosmos — K.C. Irving Environmental Science Centre, Wolfville 2–3pm • Computing the Cosmos by Robert Thacker (SMU) TIX: Free INFO: 902-679-8604
Takeout Supper — Lions Club, Wolfville 4:30–6pm TIX: Price $20 adults, $10 for children under 10. INFO: 902-542-4508
Geoff Kennedy - Feel Good Friday — Millstone Harvest Brewhouse, Sheffield Mills 7–9pm TIX: Free INFO: 902-582-2337
Aerialists — Kings Theatre, Annapolis Royal 7:30pm TIX: $35 Adult $10 Youth HST additional King’s Theatre Box Office Hours: Tue - Fri 10am - 3pm INFO: 902-532-7704
Sam Wilson Wintertides Trio — Ross Creek Annex, Canning 7:30pm • Jazz guitarist Sam Wilson brings her trio to celebrate her album Wintertides at the Annex. TIX: Tickets $20 / students $15 INFO: 902-698-9611
LOVING LOCAL THIS WINTER
Yana Tan
Even on the coldest days, you’ll find fresh, locally farmed vegetables and meats at the Wolfville Farmers’ Market. How is this possible? It’s thanks to our hardworking farmers! They’ve scaled their operations and invested in infrastructure to ensure their products are available year-round. From meat processing facilities and kitchen upgrades to greenhouses and cold storage for root crops, meats, and fish, these investments help guarantee fresh, local products for you—no matter the season. Their efforts are an investment in our vibrant community.
During the winter months, the market offers more than just fresh food—it’s a chance to unwind and connect with each other, as well as with our incredible growers and makers. Enjoy live music, ample seating, and a warm atmosphere while sipping coffee, tea, fresh apple cider, or brunch inspired by flavours from around the world, including Nepal, Tunisia, Korea, India, and France. Our farmers, bakers, artisans, and food vendors welcome you from the winter cold, making supporting local feel
better than ever. Grab your mittens and join us this Saturday at the Wolfville Farmers’ Market!
Mark your calendar for Saturday, February 15, as we celebrate For the Love of the Community This special event highlights the bonds we share and marks the launch of our Friends of the Market fundraising initiative. Becoming a Friend of the Market is a meaningful way to recognize the vital role the farmers’ market plays in community development and the local economy. Your contributions will support the growth of a diverse local food ecosystem and fund community programs, including live music, children’s activities, a zero-waste program, and food access initiatives.
We can’t wait to share the love with our vendors, market staff, volunteers, and visitors. See you at the market!
Photo courtesy of Yana Tan
DON’T SAY “NO,” SAY “OH!”
Kimberly Smith, Kathleen Purdy
Working with people of diverse abilities can be a joy when we change the way we approach challenging situations.
One of our mentors, Louise Sollars, founder of Lis’n Tell in England, shared a story about a child with disruptive behaviours that no one could quite figure out. Called in to help, Louise arrived at the school, and the child immediately shouted angrily, “OH NO! NOT THAT WOMAN!” They had never met before. The school staff were mortified, but Louise playfully responded, “Oh! I’ve never heard anyone say no with such power and force! Will you teach me how to say no like you do?” Her quick, creative reaction made the child feel heard and respected. The tension eased instantly, and the atmosphere shifted.
Sometimes, developmental needs have little to do with age. We all grow and develop at different rates. When people with diverse abilities and interests are given opportunities to play and collaborate through the arts, new skills, interests, and ways of expression can emerge.
A few years ago, in the Alexander Society’s Creative Arts Program for teens, we used the story of Anansi the Spider as a starting point for activities. Our son, Brendon, often stepped back from participating directly in group activities or taking on roles but stayed fully engaged as an observer.
At home, however, he surprised us. Brendon gathered the instruments we used in the story—each character was assigned a unique
instrument—and while I retold the story, he chose the appropriate instrument for each character. He even anticipated the story’s sequence, selecting the instrument for the next character before I spoke the line.
Through stories, drama, and music, I gained insight into how Brendon learns, what he already understands, and how he prefers to participate on his own terms.
Learn more about Louise Sollars’ work at Lis’n Tell: www.lisntell.co.uk.
Photo courtesy of Kimberly Smith
A PAGE FROM SOMEONE ELSE’S BOOK
Bea Smith
This is the first of a ten-part mystery series set in the Annapolis Valley. Follow Elspeth and Bea, two consulting detectives, as they unravel secrets and solve puzzling cases. With charm, wit, and a shared love of cats, they’ll keep you guessing in each episode. Enjoy the first chapter, “A Page from Someone Else’s Book,” and stay tuned for more!
Elspeth and I embarked on this venture through a mutual love of mysteries, though our acquaintance began with a shared fondness for cats. Not that the inner workings of feline behaviour are without mystery—years of fostering have proven otherwise. The esoteric nature of a cat often mirrors the peculiarities of any case brought our way. El and I are simply curious to see how the fancies and foibles of enigmatic lives reveal themselves.
To the uninitiated, we may appear to be nosy spinsters, while those aware of our work as consulting detectives might think our “crazy cat lady” personas are a cleverly crafted guise. In truth, our partnership came about quite naturally. Elspeth needed a housemate who could tolerate living quarters teeming with
kittens, and I needed a sanctuary. Recognizing each other’s skills in reasoning and complementary interests, we devised a suitable way to put them to use.
Elspeth has a knack for mentally sorting through chaotic piles of information, while I handle the physical ordering of evidence. This often means tidying up, which sometimes uncovers overlooked details. That’s how I came across a solitary piece of paper, torn from what must have been a diary. Dated July 24, 1954, the entry reads:
Great commotion disrupts what would otherwise be pleasant afternoons with Grandpa, were he not quarreling with his siblings. Today I hid upstairs reading, but could still hear their squabbles about money (or, more accurately, the lack thereof!).
Uncle Matthew drove from Digby boasting of an opportunity to take some American family hunting foxes out on the Boot. With a road map in hand, he split, entirely convinced that through sheer will a fortune rivalling great-grandfather’s was owed him and would
reveal itself.
This place will be dullsville if Grandpa stews all summer over his father’s poor health and unbequeathed wealth…
I couldn’t determine how this page came into our possession. El shrugged it off, explaining it had arrived with Edgar, an energetic tabby whose previous caretaker, Ruth, had moved into an assisted living facility. Edgar came with an extensive list of dietary needs, but little useful information about the diary. Ruth’s family mentioned finding the page while downsizing her belongings, though they had no trace of the rest of the book or any knowledge of her great-grandfather’s supposed fortune.
“We’ve encountered plenty of family secrets, Bea, but only one in ten leads anywhere,” Elspeth cautioned. “There’s hardly anything to go on here, and it’s likely a dead end.”
But I couldn’t leave it alone—how else could you be reading this? The diary entry doesn’t just lack information; it feels like a missing
piece of a larger puzzle. I need to find the journal it came from.
To the readers of The Grapevine, if you’ve stumbled across a diary missing this page— perhaps at a yard sale or second-hand store— please contact me at tenthlifeconsulting@gmail. com. Help us uncover more, for the sake of an old woman’s curiosity and the thrill of the mystery.
❧
Suduko found on page 5
MUSIC IN COMMUNITIES
Kim Barlow
We’re excited to launch a new program in Kentville: the Newcomers in Community Singalong! This will take place every second Tuesday at VCLA, following their community suppers. All are welcome – old-timers, newcomers, families, and new singers alike!
The free drop-in event runs from 6:30 to 8 p.m. every second Tuesday at 118 Oakdene Avenue, Kentville. Led by Marilyn Manzer, we will sing traditional NS folk songs, classics, music introduced by participants, and more. For questions, send us a note at info@musicin-communities.com.
Our monthly Youth Open Mics continue to grow. Upcoming dates are February 7, March 21, April 25, May 16, and June 13, when we’ll pause for summer to offer rock camps and other programs. These open mics are by donation, and youth ages 12 to 18 are invited to sign up to perform a few songs. We offer pizza, snacks, and a great atmosphere. All are welcome!
We have a few chances to dance this winter! We’ve teamed up with the Rabbit Square Dance Band and caller Zakary Miller to host square dances around the Valley. These events are intended to be rowdy and inclusive to help beat the winter blues. No need to worry about your dancing skills—Zakary Miller will keep you laughing and do-si-doing, while the band, featuring Amy Lounder on fiddle, Jude Pelley on guitar and mandolin, Alex Nemet on banjo, and Peter Williams on bass, brings the tunes. Dances will take place February 1 in Canning, March 8 at Gaspereau Hall, and April 5 in Bear River. Sliding scale for the whole family, $20!
On February 14, bring a partner—or don’t!
We’ll all be dancing together at our Valentine’s Day Line Dance party at the Ross Creek Annex. With local country band Sweet Bean and Michaela Tracey providing instruction, this is a licensed event with beer, wine, cider, and non-alcoholic drinks. Under 19s are welcome, accompanied by an adult.
Sunday, February 16, marks the next in our lunch-matinee series, featuring Tragedy Ann at the Annex. Enjoy a family-friendly, affordable lunch with a show, and kids’ activities on site. Kids are free! Tragedy Ann, a “forward-looking folk duo,” blends organic vocal harmonies with organ, accordion, singing saw, and guitars.
Saturday, February 22, wraps up this fall and winter’s collaboration with Creative Music Workshop and the Alexander Society for Inclusive Arts. It’s been a fun series, exploring improvisation and movement in an inclusive setting. The final event includes an afternoon workshop at the Annex and an evening concert featuring CMW faculty and participants.
Sam Wilson, an exploratory guitarist who studied jazz guitar at St. FX, will bring her Wintertides Trio to the Annex on February 28. The trio will perform works from her body of work, composed and recorded during her residency at the Ross Creek Centre for the Arts last winter.
There’s much more to come! For info and tickets, visit musicincommunities.com or follow us on social media @musicincommunities.
See you at a show ❧
CELEBRATING AFRICAN HERITAGE MONTH
Graysen Parker
Each February, Canadians come together to celebrate the history, culture, and contributions of Black communities across the country during Black History Month. Initially recognized in the United States in 1926, the month was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, two figures central to the abolition of slavery. While Lincoln’s contributions to the abolition movement are significant, it is important to acknowledge the complexities of his legacy, including some views rooted in the prejudices of his time.
In 2008, the Canadian Senate officially declared February as Black History Month nationwide. However, in Nova Scotia, the month was renamed in 1996 to African Heritage Month, a reflection of the unique cultural identity of the province’s Black communities.
The Department of African Nova Scotian Affairs (ANSA) marked the start of African Heritage Month in 2004 with the first reading of the African Heritage Month Proclamation at Province House. Since then, ANSA has worked to increase awareness of African Nova Scotian history and culture, forming the African Heritage Month Information Network, a collaborative group of organizations across the province. The network helps develop annual themes, promotes events, and produces educational materials, including posters for the month.
African Heritage Month provides an opportunity to recognize the enduring
contributions of people of African descent, particularly in Nova Scotia, which boasts over 400 years of African heritage. This year, the municipality will host the 5th Annual Proclamation Event, bringing the community together to honour the contributions of young leaders of African descent and celebrate the accomplishments of Black Nova Scotians.
2025 Theme: Legacy in Action: Celebrating Black Brilliance
The theme for African Heritage Month 2025 is “Legacy in Action: Celebrating Black Brilliance,” which honours the living legacy of Black Nova Scotians. The theme highlights the impact of this long-standing community, acknowledging the strength, wisdom, and perseverance passed down through generations. It reflects the power of storytelling, the rhythms of change, and the ability to look to the past to move forward.
2025 Proclamation Event
Join the community for the 2025 African Heritage Month Proclamation Event, which will take place in the Council Chambers (181 Coldbrook Village Park Drive, Coldbrook, NS) on February 6 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
For more information on additional events across the province, visit: https://bccns.com/ events/
Email your classified to: sales@grapevinepublishing.ca and, if there's room, we'll get you in. Or, to reserve a placement, pay $5 per issue (3-issue minimum commitment). Please keep listings to 35 words or less.
CLASSES & WORKSHOPS:
Community Meditation Group: Learn to explore your experiences. Sitting and walking meditation, readings, and discussion (tea, cookies). All are welcome. Bishop Hall, Greenwich. Every Sunday 10:30 AM – 12 PM. INFO: 902-542-7993
Tapestry Cancer Support Group: Meets every second Thursday of the month at 1 PM. INFO: 902-538-1365
The Little Town Choir: A recreational choir for adults, beginner-intermediate. Fun, instructional. Sign up for our new session in January! INFO: 902-300-1001 | susanlisadworkin@gmail.com
Voice and Piano Lessons: With professional music educator, Susan Dworkin. Studio in Wolfville. INFO: 902-300-1001 | susanlisadworkin@gmail.com
PRODUCTS & SERVICES:
Acupuncture: Traditional Chinese Medicine treats the person, not the disease. By balancing body mind and spirit, it can improve: emotional well-being, energy levels, sleep, immunity, headaches, fertility, menopausal symptoms and more! 20+ years experience. INFO: 112 Front St, Wolfville | 902-404-3374 | janemarshallacupuncture.ca
Book Editing Services: Do you have a book in you? I’m a professional editor with 20+ years’ experience offering book coaching, developmental editing, and manuscript assessments. For testimonials, rates and more about me, visit my website. INFO: info@parlaymanuscript.com | www.parlaymanuscript.com
Dr. Caleb Cheng: Offering family and workplace mediation services to the Annapolis community. Be peacemakers in a conflicted world. INFO: Caleb@peacemakers.today
Get It Published!: Professional editing and design of books, covers, reports, posters, brochures, logos and more. E-books too! Reasonable rates and ultra-reliable service. INFO: david@textanddesign.com | textanddesign.com
Got Mice?: Do you have a MOUSE problem? Or do you have a HOUSE problem? Got Mice Humane Wildlife Services addresses common and uncommon entry points permanently with guaranteed results. Call for a consultation. INFO: 902-365-MICE (6423) | GOTMICE.CA
Interior Painting and Cabinets: Women in Rollers is the Valley’s full-service decorating company. We do accurate quotes, show up on time, and perform to perfection. We even leave your home neat! We have great references! Complimentary design and colour consultations. Call today for your free estimate. INFO: (902) 697-2926
Music Therapy: Kate Harbaruk BMT, MTA is offering individual or group sessions in-home, and in facilities for people of all ages. INFO: kate.harbaruk@gmail.com
Safe Haven Animal Rescue: Freshly baked blueberry scones, which contain no animal products. Weekly orders until June 1st. Scones are 4 for $10. Proceeds go to SHAR! INFO: susanlisadworkin@gmail.com
Silver Squirrel Painting Company: Local, trusted, and professional. We deliver clean, high-quality results for homes and businesses. On time, on budget, andspecializing in bridal, formal wear. Opening for sales every other Saturday starting February 1st at 437 Main Street, Kentville. INFO: stuffandnonsensens@proton.me
CROSSWORD by Mackenzie Francis Tomlin and Della Blossom Alderson
